Cube steak, also known as minute steak, is a thinly sliced cut of beef that is perfect for a variety of cooking methods, including the crock pot. Cooking cube steak in a crock pot is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. In this article, we will explore the benefits of cooking cube steak in a crock pot, provide a basic recipe, and offer some tips and variations to enhance your culinary experience.
The Benefits of Cooking Cube Steak in a Crock Pot
Cooking cube steak in a crock pot offers several benefits, including:
- Tenderization: The low heat and moisture of the crock pot break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and easy to chew.
- Convenience: Simply add the ingredients to the crock pot and let it cook while you attend to other tasks.
- Flexibility: Cube steak can be cooked in a variety of ways, including with sauces, seasonings, and vegetables.
- Cost-effective: Cube steak is generally less expensive than other cuts of beef, making it a budget-friendly option.
A Basic Recipe for Crock Pot Cube Steak
Here is a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 pounds cube steak
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Season the cube steak with salt and pepper.
- Add the sliced onion to the bottom of the crock pot.
- Place the cube steak on top of the onion.
- In a small bowl, mix together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme.
- Pour the mixture over the cube steak.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Variations and Tips
To enhance your crock pot cube steak, try the following variations and tips:
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the crock pot.
- Mushroom gravy: Add some sliced mushrooms to the crock pot and serve with a side of mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
- Italian-style: Add some Italian seasoning and a can of diced tomatoes to the crock pot.
- Use a different seasoning: Try using a different seasoning blend, such as fajita seasoning or Cajun seasoning, to give your cube steak a unique flavor.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When selecting cube steak, look for cuts that are labeled as “top round” or “top sirloin.” These cuts are generally leaner and more tender than other cuts of beef.
Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy
If you want to add a rich and savory gravy to your crock pot cube steak, try the following recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 pounds cube steak
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Season the cube steak with salt and pepper.
- Add the sliced onion to the bottom of the crock pot.
- Place the cube steak on top of the onion.
- In a small bowl, mix together the beef broth and flour.
- Pour the mixture over the cube steak.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add the beef broth to the roux, whisking constantly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Serve the cube steak with the gravy spooned over the top.
Serving Suggestions
Crock pot cube steak is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, including:
- Mashed potatoes: A classic comfort food combination.
- Egg noodles: A simple and satisfying side dish.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, add a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
- Salad: A simple green salad or a more substantial grain salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cube steak.
Crock Pot Cube Steak with Vegetables
If you want to add some extra nutrients and flavor to your crock pot cube steak, try adding some vegetables to the pot. Here are some suggestions:
- Carrots: Sliced or baby carrots add a sweet and crunchy texture.
- Potatoes: Diced or sliced potatoes can be added to the pot for a hearty and filling meal.
- Peas: Frozen peas can be added to the pot in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Bell peppers: Sliced bell peppers add a sweet and slightly crunchy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking cube steak in a crock pot, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking: Cube steak can become tough and dry if it is overcooked. Make sure to check the meat regularly and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Underseasoning: Cube steak can be bland if it is not seasoned properly. Make sure to season the meat liberally with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
- Not browning the meat: Browning the meat before adding it to the crock pot can add a rich and savory flavor. Simply heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the meat on both sides before adding it to the crock pot.
Conclusion
Cooking cube steak in a crock pot is a delicious and easy way to prepare a tender and flavorful meal. With a few simple ingredients and some basic seasonings, you can create a mouth-watering dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you are a busy professional or a busy parent, crock pot cube steak is a great option for a quick and easy meal solution.
What is cube steak and how does it differ from other cuts of steak?
Cube steak is a type of steak that has been tenderized by pounding or using a machine to create small cuts in the meat. This process breaks down the fibers in the meat, making it more tender and easier to chew. Cube steak is often made from tougher cuts of beef, such as top round or top sirloin, which are then tenderized to make them more palatable.
The main difference between cube steak and other cuts of steak is the tenderization process. While other cuts of steak may be cooked to a specific level of doneness, cube steak is often cooked until it is tender and falls apart easily. This makes it a great option for slow-cooked meals, such as those made in a Crock Pot.
What are the benefits of using a Crock Pot to cook cube steak?
Using a Crock Pot to cook cube steak is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. One of the main benefits of using a Crock Pot is that it allows for slow and even cooking, which helps to break down the fibers in the meat and make it tender. Additionally, the low heat and moisture of the Crock Pot help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Another benefit of using a Crock Pot to cook cube steak is that it is a hands-off process. Simply add the ingredients to the Crock Pot and let it cook for several hours. This makes it a great option for busy people who want to come home to a ready-to-eat meal.
What are some common seasonings and spices used to flavor cube steak in a Crock Pot?
There are many different seasonings and spices that can be used to flavor cube steak in a Crock Pot. Some common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. You can also add other ingredients, such as diced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, to add flavor and texture to the dish.
In addition to these basic seasonings, you can also try using different marinades or sauces to add flavor to the cube steak. For example, you can use a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar to create a sweet and savory sauce. You can also try using different types of broth, such as beef or chicken broth, to add moisture and flavor to the dish.
Can I add vegetables to the Crock Pot with the cube steak?
Yes, you can add vegetables to the Crock Pot with the cube steak. In fact, this is a great way to create a complete and balanced meal. Some common vegetables that go well with cube steak include carrots, potatoes, and green beans. You can also try adding other vegetables, such as diced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
When adding vegetables to the Crock Pot, it’s a good idea to add them towards the end of the cooking time. This will help prevent them from becoming overcooked and mushy. You can also try adding different seasonings and spices to the vegetables to add flavor and texture to the dish.
How long does it take to cook cube steak in a Crock Pot?
The cooking time for cube steak in a Crock Pot will depend on the size and thickness of the steak, as well as the desired level of tenderness. Generally, it’s best to cook cube steak on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. This will help to break down the fibers in the meat and make it tender and flavorful.
It’s also a good idea to check the cube steak periodically to ensure that it is cooked to your liking. You can do this by inserting a fork or knife into the meat and checking for tenderness. If the meat is not tender, you can continue to cook it for another hour or two until it reaches the desired level of tenderness.
Can I cook cube steak in a Crock Pot from frozen?
Yes, you can cook cube steak in a Crock Pot from frozen. In fact, this is a great way to prepare a meal when you’re short on time. Simply add the frozen cube steak to the Crock Pot, along with your desired seasonings and vegetables, and cook on low for 10-12 hours or on high for 6-8 hours.
Keep in mind that cooking cube steak from frozen may affect the texture and flavor of the meat. It’s also a good idea to make sure that the meat is fully thawed and cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety.
How do I serve cube steak cooked in a Crock Pot?
Cube steak cooked in a Crock Pot can be served in a variety of ways. One popular option is to serve it with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. You can also try serving it with a side of rice, noodles, or bread. Additionally, you can use the cube steak in a variety of dishes, such as sandwiches, salads, and wraps.
When serving cube steak, it’s a good idea to slice it thinly against the grain. This will help to make the meat more tender and easier to chew. You can also try serving it with a variety of sauces or gravies, such as a rich beef gravy or a tangy BBQ sauce.