Round steak is a lean, budget-friendly cut of beef that often gets overlooked because it can be tough if not cooked properly. But with the right techniques, you can turn this economical cut into a delicious, tender meal that rivals pricier steaks. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for new ideas, this guide will walk you through how to cook round steak perfectly every time.
What Is Round Steak?
Round steak comes from the rear leg of the cow. It’s a lean cut with less marbling (fat) than cuts like ribeye or sirloin, which means it can be a bit tougher. However, its leanness makes it a healthier choice and a great option for slow-cooked dishes or quick searing if prepared right.
Key Tips for Cooking Round Steak
– Tenderize the Meat: Pounding the steak with a meat mallet breaks down tough fibers, making it more tender and easier to cook evenly.
– Use Moist Heat: Slow cooking or braising with liquid helps soften the meat by breaking down connective tissue.
– Sear First: Browning the steak in a hot skillet adds flavor and locks in juices before slow cooking or finishing it in the oven.
– Slice Against the Grain: This makes the steak easier to chew and enhances tenderness.
Popular Methods to Cook Round Steak
1. Quick Sear and Butter Baste (10-Minute Round Steak)
If you want a fast, steakhouse-style dinner, try this method:
– Pound the steak thin and season with salt and pepper.
– Sear it in a hot skillet with oil until a golden crust forms on both sides.
– Add butter, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the pan.
– Baste the steak with the melted butter and herbs for extra flavor.
– Let it rest briefly, then slice and serve.
This method yields juicy, tender steak in minutes, perfect for a weeknight meal.
2. Slow Cooking or Braising for Tenderness
Because round steak is lean and tough, slow cooking with moisture is ideal:
– Brown the steak in a skillet to develop flavor.
– Place it in a pot or Dutch oven with beef broth, onions, garlic, and seasonings.
– Cover and simmer on low heat on the stove or bake in the oven at around 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 hours.
– The long, slow cooking tenderizes the meat and infuses it with rich flavors.
This method is great for dishes like smothered round steak with mushroom gravy or steak stroganoff.
3. Classic Round Steak with Gravy
A comforting family favorite involves:
– Marinating the steak in pineapple juice, soy sauce, and BBQ sauce to tenderize.
– Coating it with seasoned flour and searing in a hot pan.
– Cooking it in the oven with a sauce made from cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and gravy mix.
– Baking for 2-3 hours until tender.
– Resting and slicing against the grain before serving with mashed potatoes or vegetables.
Step-by-Step Basic Recipe for Braised Round Steak
Ingredients:
– 1½ pounds round steak (about ¾ inch thick)
– Salt and pepper
– 1 tablespoon oil (olive or vegetable)
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
Instructions:
- Pat the steak dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak 3-4 minutes per side until browned.
- Remove steak and sauté onions and garlic in the same pan until softened.
- Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs; bring to a simmer.
- Return steak to the pan, cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 1 to 1½ hours until tender.
- Slice against the grain and serve with the pan sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Round steak pairs beautifully with:
– Mashed potatoes or egg noodles to soak up savory gravy
– Steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans or carrots
– A fresh side salad for a lighter touch
Extra Tips for Success
– Marinate your steak for several hours or overnight to boost tenderness and flavor.
– Avoid overcooking; check for tenderness regularly during slow cooking.
– Use a meat thermometer if desired-round steak is best cooked to medium or medium-well.
– Rest the meat after cooking to keep juices locked in.
Transforming round steak from a tough, inexpensive cut into a tender, flavorful meal is easier than you think. With a little patience and the right cooking method, you’ll enjoy a delicious steak dinner that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly. Give these techniques a try and savor every bite!