Eye of round steak is a lean, budget-friendly cut that often gets overlooked because it can be tough if not cooked right. But when sliced thin and prepared with care, it can be deliciously tender and packed with flavor. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook eye of round steak thin, this guide is for you! Let’s explore easy, effective methods to transform this cut into a juicy, mouthwatering meal.
What Is Eye of Round Steak?
Eye of round steak comes from the hind leg of the cow, making it a very lean cut with little fat marbling. It has a robust beefy flavor but tends to be tougher than more marbled steaks like ribeye or striploin. Because of its leanness and toughness, it’s often less expensive and requires special cooking techniques to make it tender and enjoyable.
Why Cook Eye of Round Steak Thin?
Cutting the steak thinly is a smart way to make it more tender and easier to chew. Thin slices reduce the bite size and help the meat cook quickly and evenly. This is especially important for eye of round steaks because overcooking can dry them out and make them tough. Thin slicing also allows marinades and seasonings to penetrate better, enhancing flavor.
Preparing Thin Eye of Round Steak: Key Tips
1. Tenderize Before Cooking
– Marinate: Use acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or yogurt to break down tough muscle fibers. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to a few hours.
– Pound the Meat: Lightly pound the steak with a meat mallet to physically break down fibers.
– Salt Dry-Brine: Salt the steak generously and let it rest uncovered in the fridge for an hour or two to enhance juiciness.
2. Cut Against the Grain
Always slice the steak thinly across the grain (perpendicular to the muscle fibers). This shortens the fibers and makes the meat easier to chew.
How to Cook Thin Eye of Round Steak
Stove-Top Pan-Searing (Quick and Flavorful)
Pan-searing is one of the best ways to cook thin eye of round steak because it creates a flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender.
Steps:
– Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a mix of butter and olive oil.
– Season the thin steak slices with salt and pepper.
– Sear the steak slices for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until browned but still juicy.
– Avoid moving the steak too much to prevent toughness.
– Optional: Add garlic cloves and fresh rosemary to the pan for extra aroma.
– Let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving.
Oven Cooking (Low and Slow for Tenderness)
If you prefer oven cooking:
– Preheat the oven to around 250°F (120°C).
– Sear the steak slices quickly in a hot pan to brown the outside.
– Transfer the pan to the oven and cook for about 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches medium-rare (130°F).
– Rest the steak before slicing thinly and serving.
Slow Cooker for Melt-in-Your-Mouth Steak
For maximum tenderness, use a slow cooker:
– Brown the steak slices in a pan first.
– Place them in the slow cooker with beef broth, herbs like thyme and bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
– Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
– The long cooking time breaks down tough fibers, making the steak extremely tender.
Flavor Boosters for Thin Eye of Round Steak
– Marinades: Soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs work well.
– Herbs and Spices: Fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, paprika, and black pepper add depth.
– Butter Basting: Finish cooking by basting with butter and garlic for richness.
– Simple Gravy: Use pan drippings, beef broth, onion powder, paprika, and a bit of cornstarch to make a quick gravy to pour over the steak.
Serving Suggestions
Thinly sliced eye of round steak pairs wonderfully with:
– Roasted or sautéed vegetables
– Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta
– Fresh salads with tangy vinaigrettes
– Sandwiches or wraps with horseradish sauce or mustard
Common Questions
How long to cook thin eye of round steak on the stove?
About 1-2 minutes per side over medium-high heat, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
Can I grill thin eye of round steak?
Yes! Tenderize first, oil the grill grates, and cook quickly over medium-high heat. Rest before slicing thinly.
Is medium-rare best?
Yes, medium-rare keeps the steak juicy and tender. Overcooking leads to toughness.
Eye of round steak, when sliced thin and cooked with care, can be a delicious, affordable addition to your meals. With simple steps like marinating, cutting against the grain, and quick cooking methods, you’ll enjoy tender, flavorful steak every time. Give it a try and impress your taste buds!