What is Beef Round Steak?
Beef round steak comes from the hindquarters of the cow and is a lean, affordable cut. It may not be as tender as premium cuts, but with the right cooking techniques, you can turn it into a delicious, hearty meal. In this article, we’ll explore several different beef round steak recipes, cooking tips, and meal suggestions to help you make the most of this versatile cut.
Benefits of Beef Round Steak
- Lean and Nutritious: High in protein and low in fat.
- Affordable: Budget-friendly compared to other cuts.
- Versatile: Can be grilled, slow-cooked, or braised for a variety of flavors.
Table of Contents
| Section Title | Description |
|---|---|
| What is Beef Round Steak? | Introduction to beef round steak. |
| Benefits of Beef Round Steak | Why this cut is worth considering. |
| Classic Beef Round Steak Recipes | Several easy and delicious recipes. |
| Cooking Tips | How to make round steak tender. |
| Side Dishes for Round Steak | Best sides to serve with steak. |
| Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) | Common queries about beef round steak. |
| Conclusion | Wrap-up and final thoughts. |
Classic Beef Round Steak Recipes
1. Classic Beef Round Steak in Mushroom Sauce
A go-to comfort dish, beef round steak paired with a rich mushroom sauce brings out deep, savory flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef round steak
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown both sides of the steak and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms until softened.
- Add beef broth, salt, and pepper. Return steak to skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours or until the steak is tender.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
2. Grilled Marinated Round Steak
Grilling is a great option for beef round steak. This marinade tenderizes the meat, adding deep flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef round steak
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Place the steak in the marinade and refrigerate for 4 hours (overnight is ideal).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time for desired doneness.
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Slow Cooker Beef Round Steak with Vegetables
For busy days, the slow cooker is your best friend. This recipe delivers fall-apart tender beef with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef round steak
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add chopped vegetables to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Season the steak with salt and pepper, and place it on top of the vegetables.
- Pour beef broth over the steak and add the bay leaf.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the steak is tender.
Best Cooking Methods for Beef Round Steak
Cooking round steak correctly is key to getting tender, juicy results. Here’s a list of the most effective methods:
1. Braising
- How: Slowly cook in liquid (like broth or wine) at a low temperature.
- Why: Breaks down tough muscle fibers, making the steak tender and flavorful.
2. Grilling
- How: Marinate steak and grill on high heat for a few minutes per side.
- Why: Grilling locks in juices and adds a smoky flavor.
3. Slow Cooking
- How: Add steak to a slow cooker with vegetables and liquid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Why: Ideal for busy days, this method results in ultra-tender meat.
Best Side Dishes for Beef Round Steak
Pairing your steak with the right side dishes elevates the meal. Here are some top choices:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, mashed potatoes complement the savory steak perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus balance the richness of the beef.
- Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Earthy mushrooms with garlic butter add an extra layer of flavor to your meal.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh, crunchy Caesar salad works well with the richness of steak dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best way to tenderize beef round steak?
Marinating the steak for several hours (or overnight) helps to break down the fibers, making it more tender. You can also pound the steak with a meat mallet before cooking to soften it.
2. Can I cook round steak in the oven?
Yes! You can braise round steak in the oven by cooking it low and slow in liquid, such as broth or wine, for several hours.
3. How long does it take to grill beef round steak?
It depends on the thickness of the steak, but generally, grilling takes about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust based on your desired doneness.
4. Is beef round steak good for stir-frying?
While beef round steak isn’t traditionally used for stir-frying, it can work if sliced thinly against the grain and cooked quickly over high heat.
5. Can I freeze cooked round steak?
Yes, cooked round steak can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Beef Round Steak
- Always marinate your steak for at least 4 hours to enhance tenderness.
- Slice against the grain to ensure the meat is not chewy.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium.
- Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute.
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Conclusion
Beef round steak is a versatile and budget-friendly cut that, when cooked properly, can be just as delicious and tender as more expensive cuts of beef. Whether you choose to braise, grill, or slow cook your steak, the key is to use the right techniques and flavors. By pairing your steak with complementary sides and following cooking tips, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
FAQs Recap
- How can I make my beef round steak tender? Marinate it for several hours and use slow-cooking methods.
- Can round steak be grilled? Yes, it can be grilled after marinating for added flavor.
- What are the best side dishes? Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and Caesar salad are excellent options.