Cook's Country Chuck Roast

Last night I made Cook's Country's Chuck Roast recipe. It was decent. I'm not sure I'd make it again. It had some kind of "kick" to it. I couldn't tell if it was too much pepper, other seasonings or if it was the espresso powder. I left out the celery seed and used less onion powder than called for, and was glad I did. I used a smaller roast than called for (I used 2 1/2 lbs). Not sure if I would make this again but if I did I would use a roast smaller than called for and more veggies. Also not sure if it really needs the espresso powder. I do not think splitting the roast in half & tying it is necessary, and I also did not discard the onions as they were quite tasty.