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October 27, 2024
Cube steak is a tender and flavorful cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. While many recipes call for using flour to bread and fry cube steak, it is possible to achieve delicious results without using flour. This is great news for those who are gluten-free or looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake.
In this article, we will show you how to prepare cube steak in the oven without flour. It’s a simple and healthy alternative that will still result in a mouthwatering and tender dish.
First, you’ll want to season your cube steak with your favorite spices. This can include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or any other seasonings you prefer. Rub the spices onto both sides of the meat, making sure to coat it evenly.
Next, preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, heat a skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet and sear the cube steak for about 2 minutes on each side, or until browned.
Preparation of Cube Steak
The preparation of cube steak is simple and can be done in a few easy steps. Follow these instructions to have a delicious cube steak meal:
- Take the cube steak out of the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the steak cook more evenly.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet or a baking dish with aluminum foil.
- In the meantime, season the cube steak with your choice of spices and seasonings. You can use a simple combination of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or get creative with your own blend of herbs and spices.
- Place the seasoned cube steak on the prepared baking sheet or dish and place it in the preheated oven.
- Cook the cube steak for about 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. If you prefer a medium-rare steak, cook it for around 15 minutes. For a medium steak, cook it for about 17-18 minutes. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your steak and your personal preference.
- Once the cube steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and result in a juicier and more tender steak.
Once the cube steak has rested, you can serve it as is or with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your homemade cube steak!
Choosing the Right Cut
When cooking cube steak in the oven without flour, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat. Cube steak is typically made from round steak that has been tenderized by a butcher using a meat mallet or a mechanical tenderizer. This process breaks down the tough muscle fibers and makes the meat more tender and easier to cook.
When selecting cube steak, look for pieces that are evenly shaped and about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. This thickness ensures that the steak will cook evenly and not dry out in the oven. Additionally, you want to choose cube steak that has minimal fat marbling throughout the meat. Fat can lead to flare-ups in the oven and result in a greasy finished dish.
If you can’t find pre-made cube steak at your local grocery store, you can ask your butcher to tenderize a round steak for you. This will ensure that you have the best quality meat for cooking in the oven without flour.
Marinating the Cube Steak
Marinating the cube steak is an essential step to enhance its flavor and tenderness. While you may choose to marinate the steak for a shorter period, a longer marinating time can result in more flavorful and tender meat.
To marinate the cube steak:
- Place the cube steak in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the marinade using desired ingredients such as olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add herbs and spices of your choice to further enhance the flavor.
- Pour the marinade over the cube steak, ensuring that it is evenly coated. If using a plastic bag, seal it tightly and gently massage the steak to distribute the marinade.
- Cover the dish or seal the bag, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
Note: Marinating the cube steak not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. The acids in the marinade, such as vinegar or citrus juice, break down the proteins in the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy final dish.
Seasoning and Tenderizing
Before cooking cube steak in the oven without flour, it’s important to season and tenderize the meat. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the steak.
1. Seasoning:
Start by seasoning the cube steak with your favorite herbs and spices. You can use a pre-made steak seasoning or create your own blend. Some popular options include:
- Salt and pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Italian seasoning
Generously coat both sides of the cube steak with the seasoning mixture, making sure to rub it in to ensure even distribution.
2. Tenderizing:
Cube steak is not the most tender cut of meat, but there are a few methods you can use to tenderize it:
- Using a Meat Mallet: Place the cube steak between two layers of plastic wrap or wax paper. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the steak, starting from the center and working your way out. This will help break down the tough fibers and make the steak more tender.
- Marinating: You can also marinate the cube steak in a mixture of acidic ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar, or buttermilk. Acidic marinades help tenderize the meat by breaking down the connective tissues. Let the steak marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but for even more flavor and tenderness, you can marinate it overnight.
After seasoning and tenderizing the cube steak, it is ready to be cooked in the oven without flour.
Cooking Cube Steak in the Oven
Cube steak is a flavorful and tender cut of beef, and when cooked properly in the oven, it can be a delicious and hearty meal. Here’s a simple recipe for cooking cube steak in the oven without flour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Trim any excess fat from the cube steaks.
- Season the steaks with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
- Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.
- Once the oil is hot, sear the cube steaks on both sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Cook the cube steaks in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Remove the steaks from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the cube steaks with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.
Enjoy your delicious and tender cube steak, cooked to perfection in the oven!
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don’t want to cook cube steak in the oven with flour, there are alternative cooking methods you can try. These methods can help you achieve a delicious steak without the need for flour.
1. Pan-Searing
One alternative method is to pan-sear the cube steak. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add some oil. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Place the steak in the hot skillet and cook for a few minutes on each side, until it is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Note: If using a cast-iron skillet, preheat it in the oven before adding the steak to get a nice sear.
2. Grilling
Cube steak can also be cooked on the grill for a flavorful alternative. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and your favorite grill seasonings. Place the steak on the grill and cook for a few minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness.
Tip: For added flavor, you can marinate the cube steak before grilling. This will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious flavors.
By using these alternative cooking methods, you can enjoy a juicy and flavorful cube steak without the need for flour. Experiment with different seasonings and techniques to find your favorite way to cook cube steak!
Serving and Enjoying
Once your cube steak is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy the delicious meal you’ve prepared.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some serving suggestions to enhance the flavors of your cube steak:
- Pair it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting and balanced meal.
- Top it off with a flavorful mushroom gravy for an added burst of taste.
- Serve it alongside a fresh salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to add a refreshing element to your meal.
Feel free to get creative with your serving options and explore different flavors that complement the richness of the cube steak.
Enjoying Your Meal
Take the time to savor each bite of your perfectly cooked cube steak.
Before digging in, pause to appreciate the aroma and appearance of the dish. The seared exterior should be golden brown and inviting, while the inside should be tender and juicy.
As you take your first bite, pay attention to the flavors and textures that unfold in your mouth. The steak should be seasoned to perfection, and each bite should be bursting with savory goodness.
Pair your cube steak with a glass of red wine or your favorite beverage of choice to further enhance the dining experience.
Remember to enjoy your meal in good company and share the delightful culinary experience with loved ones.
Now that you know how to cook cube steak in the oven without flour and how to serve and enjoy it, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking!
FAQ
What is cube steak?
Cube steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized by pounding with a meat tenderizer, resulting in a cube-shaped pattern on the steak.
Can I cook cube steak in the oven without flour?
Yes, you can cook cube steak in the oven without flour. There are several methods you can use, such as marinating the steak, using a dry rub, or breading it with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
What are some alternative coatings for cube steak?
Instead of flour, you can use breadcrumbs, cornmeal, crushed crackers, or even crushed tortilla chips as coatings for cube steak in the oven. These alternatives will add a nice crunch and flavor to the steak.
How long should I cook cube steak in the oven?
The cooking time for cube steak in the oven depends on the thickness of the steak. Generally, it takes about 20-25 minutes to cook a 1-inch thick cube steak at 400°F (200°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
Can I add vegetables to the oven dish with cube steak?
Yes, you can add vegetables to the oven dish with cube steak. Some options include potatoes, carrots, onions, and bell peppers. Cut the vegetables into small pieces and arrange them around the steak. Drizzle some olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs for added flavor. Roast everything together in the oven until the steak is cooked and the vegetables are tender.
What is cube steak?
Cube steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized by pounding it with a meat mallet or running it through a meat tenderizer. It is named “cube steak” because of the indentations or cube-shaped marks that are created during the tenderizing process.
Can I cook cube steak in the oven without flour?
Yes, you can cook cube steak in the oven without using flour. There are several methods you can use to cook cube steak in the oven without flour, including broiling, baking, or pan searing.