If you're in search of a comforting and straightforward dish that bursts with flavor, look no further than a delicious cubed steak recipe. Cubed steak, also known as minute steak or swiss steak, is tenderized beef cut into small cubes, perfect for absorbing flavors. Here's how you can make a delectable cubed steak dish that will satisfy your cravings and impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the method, let's gather our ingredients:
- 4 cubed steaks (approximately 4 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Preparation
1. Season and Coat the Steaks
First, season the cubed steaks with salt and pepper on both sides. In a shallow dish, mix the flour with garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, ensuring it's well-coated on all sides.
2. Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. This will ensure your steaks sear nicely without sticking.
3. Sear the Steaks
Add the steaks to the hot oil. Sear each steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they achieve a nice brown crust. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Cook the Onions
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onions and cook until they’re caramelized, approximately 5-7 minutes. This step brings a rich flavor to the dish.
5. Create the Gravy
Add beef broth to the skillet with the onions, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in Worcestershire sauce for added depth. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water, then stir this into the gravy to thicken it.
💡 Note: Be sure to cook the gravy until it thickens, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Return the Steaks
Lower the heat, return the steaks to the skillet, and let them simmer in the gravy for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the steaks to soak up the flavors and ensures they are cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your delicious cubed steak with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans
- Buttered noodles
- A side salad for a lighter touch
This easy cubed steak recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. Here are some additional tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect:
- Let the steaks rest for a couple of minutes before serving to retain their juices.
- Adjust the heat in the gravy by adding more or less cayenne pepper according to your preference.
- For an even richer gravy, you can add a splash of heavy cream before serving.
The combination of tender cubed steak, rich gravy, and caramelized onions makes for a meal that's both comforting and delectable. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or looking to treat yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Why Cubed Steak is Perfect for Family Dinners
Cubed steak holds a special place in family meals for several reasons:
- Ease of Preparation: It requires minimal prep work, which is ideal when time is of the essence.
- Flavor Absorption: The texture of cubed steak allows it to absorb flavors beautifully, making it a versatile canvas for various seasonings and sauces.
- Economical: Cubed steak is often less expensive than other cuts of beef, offering a budget-friendly yet satisfying meal option.
- Comfort Food Appeal: There’s something deeply comforting about a well-cooked steak with a rich gravy, invoking a sense of home-cooked warmth.
This dish can be a great way to introduce your kids to the flavors of beef if they're not familiar with more expensive cuts. Plus, the sauce provides a delicious way to make the meal kid-friendly by softening the meat's texture.
Experimenting with Variations
While the basic cubed steak recipe is delightful, don’t be afraid to:
- Try different seasonings in the dredging mix, like Italian herbs or mustard powder.
- Add mushrooms to the gravy for an earthy touch.
- Include bell peppers for color and a slight crunch.
- Use red wine instead of beef broth for a deeper, more luxurious flavor.
Remember, the beauty of cooking is experimentation, so feel free to make this recipe your own.
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth in the gravy?
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Yes, you can use chicken broth as a substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different with less depth.
How can I make my cubed steak even more tender?
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To make your cubed steak even more tender, consider marinating it for a few hours in a mixture of oil, vinegar, and spices before cooking.
What are some good alternatives to cubed steak?
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Good alternatives include sirloin, round steak, or even pork cutlets if you prefer a milder flavor.
