Olivia Carter
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to cook bottom round steak, look no further! In this article, we will walk you through a simple method for cooking this flavorful cut of meat in a skillet. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress.
Bottom round steak is known for its rich flavor and tenderness, but it can be a tough cut if not cooked properly. The secret to cooking a perfect bottom round steak lies in the skillet. By using the right techniques and a few key ingredients, you can transform this tough cut into a mouthwatering meal.
In this recipe, we will be marinating the steak to enhance its flavor and tenderness. A combination of Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and black pepper will infuse the meat with a savory taste that will have your taste buds begging for more. Once the steak is marinated, we will move on to the cooking process, where a hot skillet will work its magic to create a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
So if you’re ready to elevate your cooking game and create a restaurant-quality meal at home, let’s get started with our step-by-step guide on how to cook bottom round steak in a skillet. You’ll be amazed at the results and your family and friends will thank you for it!
Prepare the Bottom Round Steak
Before cooking the bottom round steak, it’s important to properly prepare it to ensure a delicious and tender end result. Here’s how you can prepare the steak:
1. Trim the fat:
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the bottom round steak. This will help prevent the steak from becoming too greasy during cooking.
2. Season the steak:
Next, season the steak with your desired spices and seasonings. You can use a simple combination of salt and black pepper, or get creative with other flavors such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs.
3. Let it rest:
Allow the seasoned steak to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the meat come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
4. Tenderize the steak:
If desired, tenderize the bottom round steak using a meat mallet. This can help break down the tough fibers in the meat, resulting in a more tender steak.
5. Marinate (optional):
If you have the time, consider marinating the bottom round steak to further enhance its flavor and tenderness. Choose a marinade that complements the flavor of the steak and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
By properly preparing the bottom round steak, you’ll be on your way to cooking a delicious and flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy.
Season the Steak
Before cooking the bottom round steak in a skillet, it is important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Seasoning the steak can be done in a few simple steps:
1. Pat the Steak Dry
Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture on the surface, allowing the seasonings to adhere better.
2. Season with Salt and Pepper
Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning combination adds a basic flavor profile to the meat.
3. Optional Seasonings
If desired, you can also add additional seasonings to enhance the taste of the bottom round steak. Some common options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or a steak seasoning blend.
Make sure to evenly distribute the seasonings on both sides of the steak, pressing them into the meat for better adhesion.
Allow the seasoned steak to rest at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes before cooking. This helps the steak cook more evenly and enhances its tenderness.
Preheat the Skillet
Before you start cooking your bottom round steak, it’s important to preheat the skillet. Preheating ensures that the pan is hot enough to sear the meat and create a delicious crust.
Start by placing the skillet on the stove over medium heat. Allow the skillet to heat up for a few minutes until it is hot to the touch. You can test the heat of the skillet by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the surface. If the water sizzles and evaporates immediately, then the skillet is ready for cooking.
Choosing the Right Skillet
When it comes to cooking bottom round steak, choosing the right skillet is crucial. A cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet works best for searing the steak and creating a flavorful crust.
Make sure to pick a skillet that is large enough to accommodate the size of the steak without overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding the pan can prevent proper browning and searing. If you don’t have a large enough skillet, you may need to cook the steak in batches.
Adding Oil to the Skillet
Once the skillet is preheated, it’s time to add a small amount of oil. Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil. Pour enough oil into the skillet to lightly coat the bottom.
Using a pair of tongs, carefully swirl the oil around to evenly distribute it in the skillet. Make sure the entire surface is coated with a thin layer of oil. This will help prevent the steak from sticking to the pan during cooking and also promote even browning.
Cook the Steak
Now that you have prepared the bottom round steak, it’s time to cook it to perfection.
1. Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to the skillet and let it heat up.
2. Carefully place the steak in the hot skillet. Cook it for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
3. Resist the temptation to constantly flip the steak. Let it develop a nice sear on each side before flipping it over.
4. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the steak should reach 145°F (63°C).
5. Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes for a juicier steak.
6. Slice the steak against the grain into thin slices. This helps to ensure tender and flavorful bites.
7. Serve your delicious bottom round steak with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
With these simple steps, you can easily cook a mouthwatering bottom round steak in a skillet. Remember to adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness.
Let the Steak Rest and Serve
Once the bottom round steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it is important to let it rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.
Remove the steak from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Loosely tent the steak with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes.
While the steak is resting, take this time to prepare any sides or sauces you plan to serve with the steak. Whether it’s roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a tangy chimichurri sauce, having everything ready will make for a seamless presentation.
Carve and Serve
After the steak has rested, it’s time to carve and serve.
Start by slicing the steak against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the long muscle fibers, which helps to ensure tenderness. Use a sharp knife and slice the steak into thin strips, about 1/2 inch thick.
For an extra touch of presentation, you can fan out the slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
Pro Tip: If you prefer your steak more well-done, you can cook it for a few minutes longer before letting it rest. However, keep in mind that the bottom round steak is lean, so overcooking may result in a drier texture.
Enjoy your deliciously cooked bottom round steak!
FAQ
Can I cook bottom round steak in a skillet?
Yes, you can cook bottom round steak in a skillet. It’s a great method for cooking this cut of meat as it allows for a quick and even sear, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.
What is the best way to cook bottom round steak in a skillet?
The best way to cook bottom round steak in a skillet is to first season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the steak and sear it for about 2-3 minutes per side. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes, or until the desired level of doneness is achieved.
How long should I cook bottom round steak in a skillet?
The cooking time for bottom round steak in a skillet will depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, a 1-inch thick bottom round steak cooked in a skillet should be seared for about 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat, and then cooked for an additional 4-6 minutes over medium-low heat.
What spices work well with bottom round steak?
There are many spices that work well with bottom round steak, depending on your personal preference. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. You can experiment with different combinations to find the flavors that you enjoy the most.
Can I marinate bottom round steak before cooking it in a skillet?
Yes, you can marinate bottom round steak before cooking it in a skillet. Marinating the steak can help to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Simply combine your choice of marinade ingredients, such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, olive oil, and spices, and let the steak marinate in the mixture for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
