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December 10, 2024
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to cook a bottom round steak, look no further than your oven! This method of cooking allows you to achieve a juicy and tender steak with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will surely impress.
First, it’s important to know what a bottom round steak is. This cut of beef comes from the rear leg of the cow and is known for its lean and tough texture. However, with the right cooking technique, you can turn this budget-friendly cut into a mouthwatering dish.
To start, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven is heating up, season your bottom round steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. This will help enhance the flavor of the meat.
Next, heat a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and sear the steak on both sides until it develops a rich brown crust. This step is crucial as it helps to seal in the juices.
Preparing the Bottom Round Steak
Before cooking the bottom round steak in the oven, there are a few steps you need to follow to ensure it turns out tender and flavorful.
1. Marinate the Steak
Marinating the bottom round steak is an important step to add flavor and tenderize the meat. In a bowl, whisk together a marinade of your choice – it could be a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and black pepper. Place the steak in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight.
2. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures even cooking and helps to lock in the juices of the steak.
Now that you have prepared the bottom round steak, it’s time to move on to the cooking process.
Seasoning the Steak
Before cooking the bottom round steak, it is important to season it well to enhance its flavor. Here’s how you can do it:
Ingredients:
| 1 tablespoon salt |
| 1 tablespoon black pepper |
| 1 tablespoon garlic powder |
| 1 tablespoon paprika |
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Make sure the bottom round steak is dry by patting it with paper towels.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the steak, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
By seasoning the bottom round steak with a combination of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, you will add a delicious blend of flavors that will complement the beefy taste of the steak.
Preheating the Oven
Preheating the oven is an important step in cooking a bottom round steak. This ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature for cooking the steak to perfection. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) before you begin preparing the steak.
While the oven is preheating, take the bottom round steak out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the steak to come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking throughout.
During the preheating process, it’s also a good idea to prepare any seasonings or marinades you plan to use on the steak. This will save you time and ensure that the steak is properly seasoned before placing it in the oven.
Note: Preheating the oven may take around 10-15 minutes, depending on the type and efficiency of your oven. Use this time to prepare the steak and gather any additional ingredients or equipment you may need.
By preheating the oven and bringing the steak to room temperature, you’ll ensure that your bottom round steak cooks evenly and offers a delicious, tender result.
Cooking the Steak
Before cooking the bottom round steak in the oven, make sure to preheat the oven to the desired temperature, usually 375°F (190°C).
1. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow it to temper.
2. Season the steak generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Rub the seasonings into the meat to ensure even flavoring.
3. Heat a cast iron or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Add some oil and let it heat until it shimmers.
4. Place the steak in the hot skillet and sear it on each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until a golden brown crust forms.
5. Once the steak is seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Cook the steak for about 8-10 minutes for medium-rare or 10-12 minutes for medium, flipping the steak halfway through the cooking time.
6. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steak to a cutting board. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
7. Slice the steak against the grain into thin slices. This helps to ensure tenderness.
8. Serve the steak hot and enjoy!
Checking the Steak for Doneness
It’s important to check the internal temperature of the bottom round steak to ensure that it is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Here are a few methods to test the steak’s doneness:
1. Meat Thermometer: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bones. The following temperature ranges will give you an idea of the doneness:
- Rare: 125°F to 130°F (51°C to 54°C)
- Medium Rare: 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C)
- Medium: 140°F to 145°F (60°C to 63°C)
- Medium Well: 150°F to 155°F (66°C to 68°C)
- Well Done: 160°F and above (71°C and above)
2. Touch Test: Use the touch test to determine the steak’s doneness based on its firmness. Gently press the center of the steak with the back of a fork or your finger:
- Rare: Steak will be very soft and yield easily.
- Medium Rare: Steak will be soft and yield with a little resistance.
- Medium: Steak will be slightly firm and yield with moderate resistance.
- Medium Well: Steak will be firm with a slight spring back.
- Well Done: Steak will be very firm with no give.
3. Visual Check: Lastly, you can use visual cues to determine the steak’s level of doneness. A rare steak will have a red center, while a medium steak will have a pink center with some redness. A medium well steak will have a slightly pink center, and a well-done steak will be brown all the way through.
Remember, the steak will continue to cook as it rests, so it’s advisable to remove the steak from the oven or grill when it’s slightly under your desired level of doneness.
Always use caution when handling hot steak and meat thermometers. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Letting the Steak Rest and Serving
Once the bottom round steak is done cooking, it’s important to let it rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Remove the bottom round steak from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will give the steak enough time to reabsorb some of its juices and become even more delicious.
While the steak is resting, you can prepare any side dishes or sauces to accompany your meal. Some popular choices include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a creamy mushroom sauce.
After the resting period is over, remove the aluminum foil and slice the bottom round steak against the grain. This will help ensure that each bite is as tender as possible. Serve the slices of steak on a platter or individual plates.
Remember to garnish the steak with your favorite fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. You can also drizzle some of the steak’s juices over the slices or serve them alongside in a small bowl.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked and rested bottom round steak!
Q&A
What is a bottom round steak?
Bottom round steak is a lean and tough cut of beef that comes from the round primal region of the cow. It is typically less expensive than other cuts of beef, and it is great for slow cooking methods like braising or roasting.
How do I cook a bottom round steak in the oven?
To cook a bottom round steak in the oven, start by preheating the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Season the steak with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Place the steak on a baking sheet and roast it for about 20-25 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and remove the steak from the oven when it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Can I marinate the bottom round steak before cooking it in the oven?
Yes, marinating the bottom round steak before cooking it in the oven can help to tenderize the meat and add flavor. You can marinate it for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Choose a marinade that complements the flavors of beef, such as a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs.
What are some side dishes that go well with bottom round steak?
There are many side dishes that pair well with bottom round steak. Some popular options include roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes, sautéed mushrooms, green beans, or a side salad. You can also serve it with a baked potato or rice pilaf.
Can I cook a bottom round steak to medium-rare or medium doneness in the oven?
It is possible to cook a bottom round steak to medium-rare or medium doneness in the oven, but it may require additional steps or techniques. Since bottom round steak is a lean and tough cut of beef, it is best suited for slow cooking methods that involve longer cooking times and lower temperatures, such as braising or roasting. If you prefer a medium-rare or medium steak, you can try searing the steak on the stovetop before transferring it to the oven. This will help to develop a crust and seal in the juices. However, keep in mind that cooking a bottom round steak to medium-rare or medium doneness may result in a slightly tougher texture compared to other cuts of beef.
What is a bottom round steak?
Bottom round steak is a lean cut of beef that comes from the hindquarters of the cow. It is a tougher cut of meat and requires slow cooking to become tender.