Swiss Steak is a dish that might have caught your attention in a restaurant; you might have tasted it while growing up, or perhaps you have never encountered it before.
But, if you are looking for an uncomplicated recipe that would allow you to achieve the deep, rich flavors and tender beef this dish offers, you are in luck.
The key to mastering this dish is using simple ingredients and following a straightforward method. The meat becomes tender and juicy by cooking the beef slowly in a tomato-based sauce.
At the same time, the flavors from the seasonings and vegetables infuse into the dish, creating a delightful and hearty meal that everyone will love.
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What Is Swiss Steak?
Swiss Steak is a cooking method designed to transform a relatively tough cut of beef, typically a round steak, into a tender and flavorful dish. The process involves browning the meat and then simmering it in a tomato-based sauce.
Interestingly, the term “Swiss” in Swiss Steak has no connection to Switzerland. Instead, it denotes the approach of tenderizing a resilient cut of meat to achieve a delicious outcome.
Quick and Delicious Swiss Steak
Swiss Steak is the ultimate family dinner option, offering simplicity and versatility whether you cook it in the oven or use a slow cooker. This dish features tender beef immersed in a flavorful tomato gravy.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds of Round Steak
- ½ cup of flour
- ½ teaspoon of paprika
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon of pepper
- Two tablespoons of olive oil
- Two onions, chopped
- Two carrots, chopped
- One can of diced tomatoes with juice
- One can of beef broth
- One tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- One tablespoon of cornstarch
Instructions
- Set your oven to 350°F.
- Using a meat tenderizer, gently pound the meat until it is about half an inch thick.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and salt to taste. Dredge the meat in this flour mixture, coating it evenly.
- Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the steaks on each side, adding more olive oil if necessary. Once browned, set them aside.
- Arrange the chopped onions and carrots at the bottom of the pot. Place the browned steaks on top.
- Add the remaining ingredients, excluding the cornstarch. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 2 ½ to 3 hours.
- When ready, serve your Swiss Steak over a bed of mashed potatoes or your preferred side dish.
Storing Swiss Steak
Place your remaining Swiss Steak in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Your Swiss Steak can be kept this way for up to three days, ensuring it stays fresh and safe for consumption.
More Easy And Quick Steak Dishes
Serving Suggestions
This Swiss steak dish pairs wonderfully with various side options to complement its rich flavors. While it can be enjoyed with rice or served over noodles to soak up the delicious sauce, the traditional and simple way to serve it is with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and a selection of steamed, roasted, or vegan BBQ.
Wrapping Up
Swiss Steak is a comforting and flavorful dish that has stood the test of time for good reason. Its tenderized and slow-cooked beef and a hearty tomato-based sauce create a satisfying meal for family dinners or special occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of meat is best for Swiss Steak?
Swiss Steak is typically made using tougher cuts of beef, such as round or chuck steak. These cuts benefit from slow cooking, which tenderizes the meat and enhances its flavor.
Can I use a slow cooker for Swiss Steak?
A slow cooker or crockpot is another excellent option for making Swiss Steak. Follow the same steps for searing the meat and preparing the sauce, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook the Steak on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender.
What are some common seasonings for Swiss Steak?
Swiss Steak is often seasoned with basic herbs and spices such as salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. You can customize the seasonings by adding herbs like thyme, oregano, or bay leaves.
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