Cube Steak Recipe: Easy, Flavorful, and Family-Favorite

Let's dive into one of the most comforting and flavorful dishes you can prepare: cube steak. This dish, often overlooked, can be a star on any dinner table with its simplicity and rich taste. Cube steak, when done right, is tender, juicy, and incredibly satisfying, making it a favorite for family dinners or a cozy meal on a weekend.

Ingredients for Cube Steak

• 4 pieces of cube steak (about 6 oz each)
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp of garlic powder
• 1 tsp of onion powder
• 1 tsp of paprika
• 1 tsp of salt
• 1/2 tsp of black pepper
• 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups of beef broth
• 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp of butter

Preparing Cube Steak

Here's how to bring out the best in your cube steak:

1. Season the Flour: In a shallow bowl, combine flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Dredge the Steaks: Pat each steak dry with paper towels. Then dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess.
3. Brown the Steaks: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks to the skillet, cooking until they achieve a nice golden crust, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer steaks to a plate and set aside.
4. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add butter, then sauté onions until they begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Make the Gravy: Pour in beef broth, add Worcestershire sauce, and bring to a simmer. Stir well to lift the browned bits from the bottom of the pan, which adds flavor to your gravy.
6. Return the Steaks: Place the steaks back into the skillet, spooning some of the gravy over them. Cover, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the steak is tender.
7. Final Touches: Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer thicker gravy, mix 2 tablespoons of leftover seasoned flour with a bit of water and stir it into the skillet, letting it cook for a few additional minutes.

🔔 Note: Cube steak should not be overcooked to avoid becoming too tough. Simmering gently in gravy ensures tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

Cube steak goes wonderfully with several sides:

• Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
• Green Beans: Provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty steak.
• Roasted Carrots: Add some sweetness to your plate.

The beauty of cube steak lies in its versatility. It's a dish where tradition meets comfort, and with these serving suggestions, you can elevate a simple meal into a delightful culinary experience.

🌟 Note: You can thicken the gravy further with a cornstarch slurry if you prefer a denser consistency.

Variations on Cube Steak

Don't be afraid to experiment with your cube steak:

• Country-Fried Steak: Before cooking, dip the steaks in egg and milk for a breadier coating.
• Cream Gravy: Substitute half of the beef broth with cream or milk for a richer gravy.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme during cooking for an aromatic twist.
• Peppercorn Sauce: If you love spice, you can swap the gravy for a creamy peppercorn sauce.

🍽 Note: Remember to adjust seasoning according to the additional ingredients you add, keeping the balance of flavors in mind.

This easy yet flavorful cube steak recipe is a testament to the magic that can happen with humble ingredients. By following these steps, you'll create a dish that's not only comforting but also brimming with robust flavors, sure to become a family favorite. Whether it's for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely meal, cube steak is a straightforward yet delicious option that never fails to impress.

How do you make cube steak tender?

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The key to tender cube steak is to cook it low and slow. Browning it first seals in the juices, and then simmering it in gravy helps to break down the tough fibers over time. Avoid overcooking to maintain its tenderness.

Can I use a different type of flour for coating the steak?

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Yes, you can use gluten-free flour or even bread crumbs for a different texture. The key is to ensure the steak is well coated to achieve that golden crust.

What are some low-carb alternatives for this dish?

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Instead of breading with flour, you could use crushed pork rinds or almond flour. Serve the steak with cauliflower mash or sautéed vegetables for a low-carb version.