Don’t the potatoes and carrots turn to mush?
No. I always put the meat in first (maybe on a couple carrot pieces to lift it off the bottom), then potatoes, then carrots. Potatoes: I cut into fairly large chunks, like 1/4 to 1/6 of a medium size russet. Onions on top. Cook on medium heat.
Serve with horseradish for the meat.