Round steak is a lean, economical cut from the rear leg of the cow. It’s often overlooked because it can be tough if not cooked properly. But with the right techniques, round steak can become tender, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners. If you’re wondering how do I cook round steak, this guide will walk you through simple, foolproof methods and tasty recipes that make the most of this affordable cut.
Why Choose Round Steak?
– Budget-friendly: Round steak is one of the most affordable beef cuts.
– Lean and healthy: Low in fat, making it a good option for health-conscious eaters.
– Versatile: Great for roasting, slow cooking, braising, or pan-searing.
– Flavorful when cooked right: Slow cooking breaks down tough fibers, resulting in tender meat.
How to Cook Round Steak: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Tenderize Before Cooking
Because round steak is lean and can be tough, tenderizing is key. You can:
– Use a meat mallet to pound the steak evenly.
– Marinate for 2 to 4 hours or overnight in an acidic marinade (like vinegar, lemon juice, or buttermilk) to break down fibers.
– Score the surface lightly with a knife to help flavors penetrate.
2. Choose Your Cooking Method
Round steak benefits from slow, moist cooking methods to become tender:
– Oven Braising: Brown the steak in a hot pan, then cook covered in the oven at 325°F (160°C) with some liquid (broth, water, or gravy) for 2 to 3 hours until fork-tender.
– Slow Cooker: Place browned steak with onions, broth, and seasonings in a slow cooker for 6 to 8 hours on low.
– Pan Searing + Oven Finishing: Sear steak on both sides in a hot skillet, then finish in the oven with a sauce or gravy.
– Smothered Steak: Cook in a skillet with onions and gravy until tender.
3. Make a Rich Gravy or Sauce
Use the pan drippings to create a savory gravy by mixing cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the pan juices over medium heat until thickened. This adds flavor and moisture to the steak.
4. Slice Against the Grain
After cooking, let the steak rest for 10 minutes. Then slice thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
Easy Round Steak Recipe to Try Tonight
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs round steak
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cups beef broth or water
– 1.5 tablespoons beef base or bouillon
– ¼ cup cornstarch mixed with ¼ cup cold water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Heat oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the steak on all sides.
- Remove steak; sauté onions in the same pot until soft.
- Deglaze the pot with 1 cup beef broth, scraping up browned bits.
- Return steak to pot, add remaining broth and beef base.
- Cover and roast in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours until meat is fork-tender.
- Remove steak; slice part for serving, cube the rest.
- Stir cornstarch mixture into pan juices on stove over medium heat to thicken gravy.
- Serve sliced steak with gravy, or toss cubes in gravy for later meals.
Three Delicious Ways to Enjoy Leftover Round Steak
- Beef and Noodles: Toss cubed steak and gravy with cooked egg noodles for a comforting meal.
- Steak Sandwiches: Pile sliced steak on crusty bread with melted cheese and onions.
- Stir-Fry: Use cubed steak in a quick stir-fry with vegetables and soy sauce.
Tips for Perfect Round Steak Every Time
– Don’t rush cooking; low and slow is best.
– Always brown the meat first for richer flavor.
– Use a tight-fitting lid to keep moisture in during roasting.
– Save leftover gravy for soups or casseroles.
– Freeze extra cooked steak in gravy for quick meals.
Round steak doesn’t have to be tough or boring. With simple prep and slow cooking, you can enjoy tender, flavorful beef that’s kind to your wallet and your taste buds. Ready to try? Grab a round steak and start cooking!
Would you like some easy marinade recipes or side dish ideas to pair with your round steak?