Olivia Carter
Cube steak is a popular and versatile cut of beef that is often used in hearty dishes like stews and casseroles. It is a tenderized piece of meat that has been run through a mechanical tenderizer, which creates a cube or square pattern on the surface of the steak. While cube steak can be cooked using various methods, one of the easiest and most convenient ways is to use a slow cooker.
Using a slow cooker to cook cube steak is a great option for busy individuals who want to enjoy a delicious and tender meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. The slow cooker allows the meat to cook slowly and evenly, ensuring that it becomes tender and full of flavor.
To cook cube steak in a slow cooker, you will need some basic ingredients such as cube steak, onions, garlic, beef broth, and your choice of seasonings. Start by seasoning the cube steak with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs you prefer.
The next step is to sauté the onions and garlic in a frying pan until they become translucent and fragrant. Then, transfer the onions and garlic to the slow cooker and place the seasoned steak on top.
What is Cube Steak?
Cube steak is a type of beef that has been tenderized by pounding with a meat mallet or running it through a mechanical tenderizer. The name “cube steak” comes from the indentations or cube-shaped marks that are left on the meat after it has been tenderized. This process helps to break down the tough fibers of the meat and make it more tender and easier to eat.
Cube steak is typically cut from the top round or top sirloin, which are leaner cuts of beef. It is a popular choice for slow cooking methods like using a slow cooker because the slow cooking process helps to further tenderize the meat and bring out its flavor.
Cube steak is often used in recipes like chicken fried steak, country fried steak, and Swiss steak. It can be breaded and fried, or braised in a flavorful sauce. However, cooking cube steak in a slow cooker is a simple and convenient way to prepare it, as the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and creates a tender, juicy end result.
Preparation
Before cooking cube steak in a slow cooker, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure that it comes out tender and flavorful.
1. Start by gathering all the ingredients and equipment you will need for the recipe. This includes the cube steak, any seasonings or marinades you plan to use, vegetables, and the slow cooker itself.
2. Next, prepare the cube steaks by tenderizing them. This can be done by pounding them with a meat mallet or using a fork to pierce the meat. Tenderizing will help break down the connective tissues in the meat and make it more tender when cooked.
3. If desired, you can marinate the cube steak to add extra flavor. Simply place the steak in a bowl or plastic bag and pour your desired marinade over it. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.
4. Before placing the cube steak in the slow cooker, season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
5. If you plan to include vegetables in your slow cooker meal, chop them into bite-sized pieces and place them in the bottom of the slow cooker. This will allow them to cook alongside the steak and absorb the flavors from the meat.
6. Place the seasoned cube steak on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker. Make sure to spread it out evenly and avoid overcrowding the meat, as this can prevent it from cooking properly.
7. Finally, add any additional liquid or sauce that your recipe calls for, such as broth or Worcestershire sauce. This will keep the cube steak moist and help infuse it with flavor during the slow cooking process.
Once you have completed these preparation steps, you are ready to start cooking your cube steak in the slow cooker. Simply set the slow cooker to the desired temperature and cooking time, and let it work its magic!
| Preparation Steps |
|---|
| 1. Gather all ingredients and equipment. |
| 2. Tenderize the cube steak by pounding or piercing. |
| 3. Optional: Marinate the cube steak for added flavor. |
| 4. Season the cube steak with salt, pepper, and desired seasonings. |
| 5. Chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place in slow cooker. |
| 6. Place the seasoned cube steak on top of the vegetables. |
| 7. Add any additional liquid or sauce called for in the recipe. |
Marinating the Steak
Marinating the cube steak before slow cooking can help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious flavor. Here’s how to marinate your cube steak:
- Place the cube steak in a shallow dish or a large resealable plastic bag.
- In a bowl, whisk together your preferred marinade ingredients. This can include a combination of oil, vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, herbs, and spices.
- Pour the marinade over the cube steak, making sure it is fully coated.
- If using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. If using a bag, seal it tightly, removing as much air as possible.
- Marinate the cube steak in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
- If marinating for a longer time, flip the cube steak halfway through to ensure even distribution of the marinade.
Marinating the cube steak will improve its tenderness and allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. After marinating, you can proceed with the slow cooking process to create a delicious and tender cube steak dish.
Cooking Process
Slow cooking cube steak is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. Here’s how you can do it in a slow cooker:
- Start by seasoning the cube steaks with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices like garlic powder or paprika.
- Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Sear the cube steaks on both sides until they are browned.
- Transfer the seared cube steaks to the slow cooker and add any desired vegetables like onions, carrots, or bell peppers.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Pour this mixture over the cube steaks in the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook the cube steaks on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process will result in tender and flavorful cube steaks.
- Once the cube steaks are done cooking, you can serve them with the cooked vegetables and the delicious gravy that has formed in the slow cooker.
- Enjoy your slow-cooked cube steaks with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish!
Now you can savor the deliciousness of cube steak without spending too much time in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work for you, resulting in a flavorful and tender meal.
Serving and Use
Once the cube steak is cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, there are various ways to serve and enjoy this delicious dish. Here are some popular suggestions:
1. Serve with Mashed Potatoes
One classic way to serve cube steak is with creamy mashed potatoes. The tenderized steak pairs perfectly with the smooth texture and buttery taste of mashed potatoes. Top it off with some homemade gravy for a satisfying and comforting meal.
2. Make Beef Sandwiches
Another option is to thinly slice the cooked cube steak and use it as fillings for sandwiches. Add some onions, peppers, and cheese for extra flavor. You can even toast the bread or grill the sandwich for a crispy and delicious twist.
3. Use in Stir-Fries or Fajitas
If you’re looking to incorporate the cube steak into a more vibrant and flavorful dish, try using it in stir-fries or fajitas. Slice the cooked steak into thin strips and stir-fry it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings. Serve it over rice or wrap it in a tortilla for a tasty and filling meal.
Whichever way you choose to serve and use your slow-cooked cube steak, make sure to enjoy it while it’s hot and flavorful. Experiment with different accompaniments and seasonings to create your own signature dish. Bon appétit!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips and tricks to make the most delicious cube steak in a slow cooker:
1. Sear the steak: Before placing the cube steak in the slow cooker, consider searing it first. This will create a nice crust and enhance the overall flavor of the meat.
2. Choose the right cut: Look for cube steak that is well-marbled with fat. This will help keep the meat moist and tender during the slow-cooking process.
3. Season generously: Use your favorite seasonings to enhance the flavor of the cube steak. Consider using a combination of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or experiment with different herbs and spices.
4. Add liquid: To prevent the cube steak from drying out, add a flavorful liquid to the slow cooker. This can be beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, or even a can of diced tomatoes.
5. Cook on low: For the most tender and juicy cube steak, cook it on the low setting of your slow cooker. This will allow the meat to slowly break down and become fork-tender.
6. Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time and check the meat for doneness. Overcooking cube steak can result in a tough and chewy texture.
7. Serve with sides: Cube steak is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal using cube steak in a slow cooker. Enjoy!
Questions and answers
What is cube steak?
Cube steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized by pounding with a meat tenderizer or by running it through a mechanical tenderizer. It is usually made from top round or top sirloin, but can also be made from chuck or shoulder.
Can you cook cube steak in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook cube steak in a slow cooker. Slow cooking cube steak can result in a tender and flavorful dish. It is best to sear the steak before placing it in the slow cooker to enhance the flavor.
