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October 27, 2024
Are you looking for a delicious and hearty meal that is quick and easy to make? Look no further than cubed steak and gravy! This classic dish is a favourite among meat lovers and is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy-to-follow steps, you can have a mouthwatering steak smothered in rich and flavourful gravy in no time.
To cook cubed steak and gravy, you will need tender and juicy cubed steaks, which are typically beef steaks that have been pounded to tenderize them. The steaks are then seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices to taste. The next step is to pan-fry the steaks until they are golden brown on both sides. This not only adds a delicious crispy texture to the meat but also seals in its juicy goodness.
Once the steaks are cooked to perfection, it’s time to make the flavourful gravy to top them off. In a separate pan, melt some butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Then, slowly add beef broth and milk while stirring continuously to avoid any lumps. As the mixture thickens, season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. The result is a creamy and savory gravy that perfectly compliments the cubed steak.
To serve, simply pour the delicious gravy over the steak, allowing it to seep into every nook and cranny. The creamy and savory gravy pairs wonderfully with the tender and flavorful steak, creating a mouthwatering combination that will leave you wanting more. You can also serve cubed steak and gravy with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal that is sure to impress.
Preparing the Cubed Steak
Before you start cooking, it’s important to properly prepare the cubed steak. Follow these steps to ensure a flavorful and tender result.
Gather the Ingredients
Make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand:
- 4 cubed steaks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Tenderize the Steak
Using a meat tenderizer, pound each cubed steak on both sides. This will help break down the muscle fibers and make the meat more tender.
Season the Steak
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Coat each cubed steak in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere the flour to the meat. Shake off any excess flour.
Tip: You can also add additional seasonings like onion powder, cayenne pepper, or dried herbs to customize the flavor according to your preference.
Once the cubed steaks are properly prepared, you’re ready to move on to the next step of cooking them in a delicious gravy.
Seasoning the Cubed Steak
Before cooking the cubed steak, it’s important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here are some simple steps to follow:
1. Pat dry the cubed steak: Use a paper towel to pat dry both sides of the cubed steak. This will help the seasoning adhere better to the meat and allow for a better sear.
2. Sprinkle salt and pepper: Season both sides of the cubed steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat.
3. Optional seasonings: If desired, you can also add other seasonings to the cubed steak. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or a steak seasoning blend. Sprinkle the additional seasonings evenly on both sides of the steak.
4. Let it sit: Allow the seasoned cubed steak to sit at room temperature for around 15 minutes. This will let the flavors penetrate the meat and improve its overall taste.
5. Rub the seasoning in: Using your hands, gently press the seasoning into the meat to ensure it sticks. This step will help to create a flavorful crust when cooking the cubed steak.
6. Seasoning for a longer period: If you have more time, you can season the cubed steak in advance and let it marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This will result in a more intense flavor.
Remember, proper seasoning is key to achieving a delicious and flavorful cubed steak. Take your time and ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed on both sides of the meat for the best results.
Breading the Cubed Steak
Once you have your cubed steak ready, it’s time to bread it. Breading the steak adds a crispy and flavorful coating that will enhance the overall taste of the dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare the breading station by placing three shallow bowls or plates next to each other. In the first bowl, add flour, in the second bowl, beat eggs, and in the third bowl, combine breadcrumbs with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Dredge each piece of cubed steak in the flour, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip the floured steak into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Transfer the steak to the breadcrumb mixture and press down gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the steak. Flip the steak and repeat on the other side.
- Place the breaded cubed steak on a plate or wire rack and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the breading to set.
Once all the cubed steak is breaded, it’s ready to be cooked. You can either fry it in a skillet with oil or bake it in the oven. Whichever method you choose, the breading will keep the steak moist and add a delicious crunch. Enjoy!
Cooking the Cubed Steak
Once you have prepared your ingredients and preheated your skillet, it’s time to start cooking the cubed steak. Follow these steps to achieve a delicious and tender result:
1. Season the Cubed Steak
Before cooking the cubed steak, generously season each side with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the meat and add extra seasoning to the gravy.
2. Dredge in Flour
Next, dredge each piece of cubed steak in flour. This will help create a crispy crust and thicken the gravy.
3. Fry the Cubed Steak
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the cubed steaks in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the cubed steak for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the cooked steaks from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the Gravy
After removing the cubed steak from the skillet, add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pan. Cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux.
| Ingredients for Gravy | Instructions for Gravy |
|---|---|
| 1 cup beef broth | Pour beef broth into the skillet, whisking constantly to incorporate the roux. Continue to cook the gravy until it thickens, usually about 5 minutes. |
| Salt and pepper to taste | Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as necessary. |
| 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional) | If desired, stir in heavy cream to make the gravy richer and creamier. |
5. Return the Cubed Steaks to the Skillet
Once the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency, carefully place the cooked cubed steaks back into the skillet, making sure each piece is coated with gravy. Reduce the heat to low and let the steaks simmer in the gravy for another 5 minutes. This will help tenderize the meat further.
Now that the cubed steak and gravy are fully cooked, you can serve it hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy!
Making the Gravy
To make the gravy for your cubed steak, follow these simple steps:
- After removing the cooked cubed steak from the skillet, keep the drippings in the pan.
- Place the skillet back on the stove over medium heat.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the skillet and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly browned.
- Slowly pour in 1 cup of beef broth while continuing to stir. This will help to deglaze the skillet and create a smooth gravy.
- Add 1/2 cup of milk or heavy cream to the skillet and stir until well combined.
- Season the gravy with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings, such as garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce.
- Continue to cook the gravy over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the gravy reaches the desired thickness, remove it from the heat.
Your delicious homemade gravy is now ready to be poured over the cubed steak! Serve hot and enjoy.
Serving the Cubed Steak and Gravy
Once your cubed steak and gravy are ready, it’s time to serve this delicious meal. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Place a generous serving of the cubed steak on a plate.
- Spoon some of the rich and flavorful gravy over the steak.
- Consider serving the cubed steak and gravy with a side of mashed potatoes. The creamy potatoes pair perfectly with the hearty steak and gravy.
- For added texture and crunch, you can also serve the cubed steak and gravy with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots and green beans.
- Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Remember to let the cubed steak and gravy cool slightly before serving to avoid burns. Enjoy this comforting and satisfying meal with your family and friends!
FAQ
What is cubed steak?
Cubed steak is a piece of beef that has been tenderized and then cut into small, cube-shaped pieces. It is often a tough cut of meat, so it requires cooking methods that will help to tenderize it.
Can I use any type of steak for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of steak for this recipe. However, cubed steak is often made from tougher cuts of meat, such as round steak or top sirloin. These cuts are less expensive and benefit from the tenderizing process.
What is the best way to tenderize cubed steak?
The best way to tenderize cubed steak is to use a meat mallet or a tenderizing tool to pound on both sides of the steak. This helps to break down the tough muscle fibers and makes the meat more tender. You can also marinate the steak in a mixture of acidic ingredients, such as vinegar or lemon juice, which will further tenderize it.
How to make the gravy for cubed steak?
To make the gravy for cubed steak, you will need to use the drippings from cooking the steak. Start by removing the steak from the pan and set it aside. Then, add flour to the drippings and cook it over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it turns brown. Slowly whisk in beef broth and any seasonings you prefer, and continue cooking until the gravy thickens. Finally, pour the gravy over the cooked cubed steak.
What are some side dishes that go well with cubed steak and gravy?
There are many side dishes that pair well with cubed steak and gravy. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, roasted potatoes, or a side salad. You can also serve it with bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious gravy.