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September 20, 2024
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious meal, cooking cubed steak in a pan is the perfect solution. Cubed steak, also known as minute steak, is a tenderized cut of beef that cooks quickly and easily. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic steak and gravy to steak sandwiches.
To cook cubed steak in a pan, start by seasoning the meat with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. This will help to enhance the flavor of the steak. Next, heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the cubed steak into the pan. Cook the steak for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
For a delicious steak and gravy dish, you can remove the cooked steak from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add some diced onions and cook until they are translucent. Next, sprinkle some flour over the onions and stir to combine. Gradually pour in some beef broth and stir until the mixture thickens. Return the cooked steak to the pan and simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once the cubed steak is cooked to perfection, serve it hot with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes and green beans. This quick and easy meal is sure to become a family favorite, thanks to its tender and flavorful results. So, next time you’re craving a steak dinner but don’t have much time to spare, give cooking cubed steak in a pan a try!
Preparation of Cubed Steak
Before cooking cubed steak in a pan, it’s important to properly prepare the meat to ensure a tasty and tender result. Follow these steps to prepare cubed steak:
1. Purchase Quality Cubed Steak
Start by purchasing high-quality cubed steak from a reputable butcher or grocery store. Look for well-marbled steak with a bright, red color.
2. Tenderize the Steak
Cubed steak can be tougher and less tender than other cuts of meat, so it’s essential to tenderize it before cooking. Use a meat tenderizer or the back of a knife to pound the steak gently on both sides. This process helps break down the muscle fibers and make the meat more tender.
3. Season the Steak
Season the cubed steak liberally with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite spice blend, to enhance the flavor.
4. Let it Rest
Allow the seasoned steak to rest at room temperature for at least 15 minutes. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat and helps it cook more evenly.
5. Preheat the Pan
Preheat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, and let it heat until it shimmers.
6. Pat Dry the Steak
Use paper towels to pat dry the cubed steak. Removing excess moisture from the meat helps it develop a nice crust during cooking.
7. Cook the Cubed Steak
Place the cubed steak in the preheated pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can interfere with proper browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
8. Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the cubed steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes the meat more tender. Serve the cubed steak hot and enjoy!
Following these preparation steps will help you achieve a delicious and tender cubed steak cooked in a pan.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When it comes to cooking cubed steak in a pan, selecting the right cut of meat is crucial. The right cut will ensure that your steak is tender and flavorful.
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Look for a cut of beef that is labeled as cube steak or minute steak. These cuts are typically derived from the top or bottom round of the beef and have already been tenderized, making them perfect for pan frying. You can also ask your butcher to cube a piece of round steak for you if you can’t find pre-cubed steak at the store.
Avoid cuts that are too lean or too fatty. Lean cuts like filet mignon or sirloin may not have enough fat to keep the steak juicy during cooking. On the other hand, cuts with excessive fat marbling like ribeye or T-bone can result in a greasy texture.
Consider the thickness of the steak. Cubed steaks that are too thin can easily overcook and dry out, while steaks that are too thick may be difficult to cook evenly. Aim for steaks that are about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.
Lastly, consider your budget and personal preferences. Cube steak can be more affordable compared to other cuts of beef, so it’s a great option if you’re on a budget. Additionally, different cuts of beef will have different flavors and textures, so choose a cut that suits your taste.
By carefully selecting the right cut of meat, you can ensure that your pan-fried cubed steak turns out delicious and tender every time.
Tenderizing the Cubed Steak
Before you start cooking cubed steak, it is important to tenderize it to ensure it is not tough and chewy. Tenderizing the steak helps break down the tough connective tissues and fibers, resulting in a more tender and juicy final dish. Here are a few methods you can use to tenderize cubed steak:
1. Use a Meat Tenderizer
One of the easiest ways to tenderize cubed steak is by using a meat tenderizer. This tool has sharp points that penetrate the meat, breaking up the muscle fibers and making it more tender. Start by placing the cubed steak on a sturdy surface and firmly pound it with the meat tenderizer. Be sure to work evenly and avoid excessive pounding, as this can cause the meat to lose its shape.
2. Marinade the Steak
Another way to tenderize cubed steak is by marinating it. A marinade is a mixture of acidic ingredients, such as vinegar or citrus juice, along with other seasonings. The acid in the marinade helps to break down the proteins in the meat, resulting in a more tender texture. Simply place the cubed steak in a container and cover it with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum tenderness.
Note: Always discard the marinade used with raw meat and do not use it as a sauce without cooking it first to kill any bacteria.
Remember, whichever method you choose, tenderizing the cubed steak is crucial for a delicious and enjoyable meal. Take your time and ensure the meat is properly treated before continuing with the cooking process.
Cooking Cubed Steak
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of cubed steak
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of beef broth
Instructions:
- Season the cubed steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Coat the steak in flour, shaking off any excess.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the cubed steak to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits.
- Return the cubed steak to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 45 minutes, or until the steak is tender.
- Remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the cubed steak hot with the onion and gravy mixture.
Enjoy your delicious homemade cubed steak!
Seasoning the Cubed Steak
Before cooking your cubed steak, it’s important to season it to enhance its flavor. Here’s how to properly season your cubed steak:
1. Salt and pepper
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the cubed steak with salt and pepper. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat.
2. Additional seasonings
If desired, you can also add additional seasonings to the cubed steak. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or a steak seasoning blend. Sprinkle these seasonings on both sides of the steak, ensuring an even coating.
Remember, when seasoning the cubed steak, it’s important to be mindful of your personal taste preferences. Feel free to customize the seasonings according to your liking.
Heating the Pan and Adding Oil
Start by selecting a heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan. A cast iron pan is a great choice for cooking cubed steak as it distributes heat evenly and retains it well. Place the pan on the stovetop and turn the heat to medium-high.
Allow the pan to heat up for a few minutes until it becomes hot. You can check the temperature by sprinkling a few drops of water on the surface. If the water evaporates immediately, the pan is ready.
Next, you’ll want to add oil to the heated pan. Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil. Add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan, about 1-2 tablespoons.
Using a wooden spoon or spatula, spread the oil evenly across the pan. Make sure it covers the entire surface, as this will prevent the cubed steak from sticking.
Cooking the Cubed Steak
Once you have prepared the cubed steak by pounding it and seasoning it to your taste, it is time to cook it in a pan. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook cubed steak in a pan:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be hot enough to sear the steak. |
| 2 | Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan. This will prevent the steak from sticking to the pan and help create a nice crust. |
| 3 | Place the cubed steak in the pan. Cook it on one side for about 3-4 minutes, or until it is browned and crusty. |
| 4 | Flip the steak over using tongs and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side. This will ensure that the steak is cooked evenly. |
| 5 | Check the internal temperature of the steak using a meat thermometer. The USDA recommends cooking steak to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare doneness. |
| 6 | Once the steak has reached the desired doneness, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the steak tender and flavorful. |
That’s it! You have successfully cooked cubed steak in a pan. Now you can serve it alongside your favorite sides or use it in a recipe of your choice.
FAQ
What is cubed steak?
Cubed steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized by pounding with a meat mallet. It is typically taken from the top round or top sirloin and has a cubical shape, hence the name.
How do I prepare the cubed steak?
To prepare cubed steak, start by seasoning it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Then, dredge the steak in flour to create a coating. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and cook the steak for a few minutes on each side until it is browned and cooked through.
What kind of pan should I use to cook cubed steak?
It is recommended to use a heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan when cooking cubed steak. A cast iron skillet works particularly well, as it distributes heat evenly and helps to achieve a nice crust on the steak.
Can I cook cubed steak without flour?
Yes, you can cook cubed steak without coating it in flour. Simply season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices, and then cook it in a hot pan with some oil until it is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
What are some suggested side dishes to serve with cubed steak?
Some popular side dishes that pair well with cubed steak include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, green beans, and a side salad. You can also serve it with a creamy sauce or gravy for added flavor.