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December 25, 2024
Do you ever find yourself wondering what to do with that package of cube steak sitting in your fridge? If you’re tired of the same old recipes and looking for a new way to prepare cube steak, you might be surprised to learn that you can actually cook it in a crock pot or slow cooker.
Now, you may be thinking, “Can you really cook cube steak in a crock pot?” The answer is yes! While cube steak is typically cooked quickly on the stovetop or in the oven, using a crock pot can result in a tender and flavorful dish.
Cooking cube steak in a crock pot involves slow cooking the meat with a variety of ingredients, such as onions, garlic, and beef broth. The low and slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and juicy. Plus, the convenience of a crock pot means you can set it and forget it, leaving you with a delicious meal at the end of the day.
So, if you’re looking to switch things up in the kitchen and try a new way to cook cube steak, give the crock pot method a try. You may be pleasantly surprised by the results and discover a new favorite recipe.
Can You Cook Cube Steak in a Crock Pot
If you’re looking for a convenient and delicious way to prepare cube steak, using a crock pot may be the answer. Cooking cube steak in a crock pot allows the meat to become tender and flavorful while requiring minimal effort on your part. Here’s a simple recipe to help you make a tasty meal with cube steak in a crock pot:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds of cube steak
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season the cube steak with salt and pepper.
- Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the crock pot.
- Layer the seasoned cube steak on top of the onions and garlic.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour the mixture over the cube steak in the crock pot.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once the steak is tender, serve it with the cooked onions and sauce from the crock pot.
This easy recipe allows the cube steak to slowly cook in the crock pot, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables. Give it a try for a hassle-free way to enjoy cube steak!
What is Cube Steak?
Cube steak is a type of beef steak that is tenderized by being run through a mechanical tenderizer, resulting in a cube-shaped appearance. This process breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, making it more tender and easier to chew. It is called “cube steak” because of the small indentations or cube-like marks left by the tenderizing process.
Typically made from cuts of beef like top round or top sirloin, cube steak is a popular choice for dishes that require quick cooking methods, such as frying or grilling. It is commonly used in meals like chicken fried steak, Swiss steak, or Salisbury steak.
When cooked properly, cube steak can be flavorful and juicy. Its tenderized texture makes it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. It is also an affordable option for those looking for budget-friendly meat cuts.
While cube steak can be cooked on a stovetop or grilled, using a slow cooker or crock pot can also yield delicious results. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become even more tender and enhances its natural flavors. This makes cube steak a convenient option for those who prefer to prepare meals in advance or have a busy schedule.
Benefits of Cooking Cube Steak in a Crock Pot
1. Tender and Juicy Results: Cooking cube steak in a crock pot allows the meat to slowly simmer in its own juices, resulting in a tender and juicy texture. The low and slow cooking method ensures that even the toughest cuts of meat become fork-tender and easy to chew.
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2. Convenient and Time-Saving: Using a crock pot to cook cube steak is incredibly convenient and saves valuable time in the kitchen. Simply season the steak, place it in the crock pot along with your choice of vegetables and seasonings, set the timer, and let it cook slowly while you go about your day. No need for constant monitoring or stirring.
3. Versatile and Flavorful: Cooking cube steak in a crock pot allows for endless flavor combinations. You can add various vegetables, herbs, and spices to customize the taste to your liking. Whether you prefer a classic combination of onions, garlic, and mushrooms, or a more exotic blend of spices, the crock pot will infuse the steak with delicious flavors.
4. Economical and Budget-Friendly: Cube steak is an affordable cut of meat, and cooking it in a crock pot is a budget-friendly way to prepare a delicious meal. The low and slow cooking method helps break down tougher cuts, transforming them into a melt-in-your-mouth dish without the need for expensive cuts of meat.
5. Meal Prep Made Easy: Using a crock pot to cook cube steak is perfect for meal prepping. You can easily prepare a large batch of cube steak and freeze the leftovers for future meals. This makes it an ideal option for busy individuals or families who want to have a wholesome and homemade meal ready to go.
6. Healthier Cooking Option: Cooking cube steak in a crock pot requires little to no added fats or oils, making it a healthier cooking option compared to other methods such as frying or grilling. The meat retains its natural flavors and nutrients, resulting in a nutritious and satisfying meal.
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In conclusion, cooking cube steak in a crock pot offers numerous benefits, such as tender and juicy results, convenience, versatility, affordability, meal prep ease, and healthier cooking. Try using your crock pot for cooking cube steak and enjoy a delicious and hassle-free meal.
How to Prepare Cube Steak for Crock Pot Cooking
Cube steak is a flavorful and tender cut of meat that is perfect for slow cooking in a crock pot. With the right preparation, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here are some steps to help you prepare your cube steak for crock pot cooking:
1. Tenderize the Meat
Before cooking, it’s important to tenderize cube steak to break down the tough muscle fibers and make it more tender. You can use a meat mallet or a tenderizing tool to pound both sides of the cube steak gently. This will also create small divots in the meat, allowing any marinade or seasonings to penetrate more effectively.
2. Season the Meat
Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavor of the cube steak. You can use a simple salt and pepper rub or get creative with your choice of spices and herbs. For example, you can try garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or a blend of your favorite spices. Rub the seasonings onto both sides of the cube steak, making sure to coat it evenly.
3. Marinate the Meat (optional)
If you have time, marinating the cube steak can add even more flavor. You can use your favorite marinade or create your own by combining ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, olive oil, and herbs. Place the cube steak in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
4. Sear the Meat (optional)
For an extra layer of flavor, you can sear the cube steak before putting it in the crock pot. Heat a skillet over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the cube steak in the skillet and sear it for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until browned. This will help lock in the juices and enhance the overall taste.
5. Prepare the Crock Pot
Before adding the cube steak to the crock pot, make sure it is clean and sprayed with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. You can also line the crock pot with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
6. Cook the Cube Steak
Place the cube steak in the crock pot and add any additional ingredients like chopped onions, garlic, or vegetables. You can also pour in some beef broth, wine, or your favorite cooking liquid to keep the meat moist. Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it on low or high heat, depending on how quickly you want the cube steak to cook. Slow cook the cube steak for 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat, until it is tender and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Once the cube steak is cooked, you can serve it as is or use it in recipes like steak sandwiches, stews, or stir-fries. The possibilities are endless!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Cube Steak in a Crock Pot
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to cook cube steak, using a crock pot is a great option. The slow cooking process helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a mouthwatering cube steak dish in your crock pot.
Ingredients:
| 1½ pounds cube steak |
| 1 onion, sliced |
| 2 cloves garlic, minced |
| 1 cup beef broth |
| 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce |
| 1 teaspoon dried thyme |
| 1 teaspoon dried rosemary |
| 1 teaspoon salt |
| ½ teaspoon black pepper |
| 2 tablespoons vegetable oil |
| 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour |
Instructions:
- In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the cube steak with salt and black pepper.
- Dredge the cube steak in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Place the cube steak in the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until browned.
- Transfer the browned cube steak to the crock pot.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are softened.
- Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Pour the mixture over the cube steak in the crock pot.
- Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
- Once the cooking time is up, the cube steak should be tender and cooked through.
- Transfer the cube steak to a serving dish and spoon the gravy over the top.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious and tender cube steak cooked to perfection in your crock pot. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends!
Questions and answers
Can you cook cube steak in a crock pot?
Yes, you can absolutely cook cube steak in a crock pot. It’s a great way to cook this cut of beef because the slow cooking process helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
What is cube steak?
Cube steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized by using a meat mallet. The name “cube steak” comes from the cube-shaped indentations that are left on the meat after it has been tenderized.
How long does it take to cook cube steak in a crock pot?
Cooking time can vary depending on the recipe and the size of the cube steak. Generally, it takes about 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat for cube steak to become tender and cooked through in a crock pot.
What are some recipes for cooking cube steak in a crock pot?
There are many delicious recipes for cooking cube steak in a crock pot. Some popular options include smothered cube steak with onions and gravy, cube steak with tomatoes and peppers, and cube steak with mushrooms and Worcestershire sauce.
Can I sear cube steak before cooking it in a crock pot?
Yes, you can sear cube steak before cooking it in a crock pot if you prefer. Searing the steak before adding it to the crock pot can help to enhance the flavor and texture of the meat.