Cube steak, a staple of comfort food, is a cut of beef that’s been tenderized and flattened to make it easier to cook. It’s a great option for a quick and delicious meal, and when cooked in a skillet, it can be truly mouth-watering. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of cooking cube steak in a skillet, from preparation to plating.
Understanding Cube Steak
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what cube steak is and how it’s different from other cuts of beef. Cube steak is typically made from top round or top sirloin, which is then tenderized using a meat mallet or a tenderizing tool. This process breaks down the fibers in the meat, making it more tender and easier to chew.
Types of Cube Steak
There are several types of cube steak available, including:
- Top Round Cube Steak: This is one of the most common types of cube steak and is known for its lean flavor and tender texture.
- Top Sirloin Cube Steak: This type of cube steak is slightly more marbled than top round, which makes it more flavorful and tender.
- Bottom Round Cube Steak: This type of cube steak is less common but still offers a great balance of flavor and tenderness.
Preparing the Skillet
Before you start cooking your cube steak, it’s essential to prepare your skillet. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Choose the right skillet: A cast-iron or stainless steel skillet is ideal for cooking cube steak, as they retain heat well and can achieve a nice sear.
- Heat the skillet: Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat for at least 5 minutes before adding the cube steak. You can test the heat by flicking a few drops of water onto the skillet – if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the skillet is ready.
- Add oil to the skillet: Add a small amount of oil to the skillet, just enough to coat the bottom. You can use any type of oil you like, but peanut or vegetable oil works well.
Seasoning the Cube Steak
While the skillet is heating up, it’s time to season your cube steak. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Use a dry rub: A dry rub is a mixture of spices and seasonings that you rub onto the cube steak before cooking. You can use a store-bought dry rub or create your own using a combination of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Don’t over-season: Remember that cube steak is a delicate cut of meat, so don’t over-season it. A light coating of dry rub is all you need.
Cooking the Cube Steak
Now that your skillet is hot and your cube steak is seasoned, it’s time to start cooking. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Add the cube steak to the skillet: Place the cube steak in the skillet, away from you (to avoid splashing oil).
- Sear the cube steak: Sear the cube steak for 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak. You want to get a nice crust on the steak, but don’t overcook it.
- Finish cooking the cube steak: After searing the cube steak, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking it to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak.
Cooking Times and Temperatures
Here are some general guidelines for cooking cube steak to different levels of doneness:
| Level of Doneness | Internal Temperature | Cooking Time |
| — | — | — |
| Rare | 120°F – 130°F | 5-7 minutes |
| Medium-rare | 130°F – 135°F | 7-9 minutes |
| Medium | 140°F – 145°F | 9-11 minutes |
| Medium-well | 150°F – 155°F | 11-13 minutes |
| Well-done | 160°F – 170°F | 13-15 minutes |
Adding Aromatics and Sauces
Once you’ve cooked your cube steak to your desired level of doneness, it’s time to add some aromatics and sauces to the skillet. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Onions and bell peppers: Sauté sliced onions and bell peppers in the skillet before adding the cube steak. This will add a sweet and crunchy texture to the dish.
- Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the skillet before adding the cube steak. This will add an earthy flavor to the dish.
- Gravy: Create a gravy by deglazing the skillet with a small amount of liquid (such as beef broth or wine) and then whisking in a little flour or cornstarch.
Popular Cube Steak Recipes
Here are a few popular cube steak recipes to try:
- Cube Steak with Peppercorn Sauce: This recipe involves cooking the cube steak in a skillet and then serving it with a creamy peppercorn sauce.
- Cube Steak Fajitas: This recipe involves cooking the cube steak in a skillet with sliced onions and bell peppers, and then serving it with warm flour tortillas.
- Cube Steak with Mushroom Gravy: This recipe involves cooking the cube steak in a skillet with sliced mushrooms and then serving it with a rich and creamy mushroom gravy.
Plating and Serving
Once you’ve cooked your cube steak and added any aromatics or sauces, it’s time to plate and serve. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Slice the cube steak: Slice the cube steak against the grain, using a sharp knife.
- Add any garnishes: Add any garnishes you like, such as chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.
- Serve with sides: Serve the cube steak with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to cook delicious cube steak in a skillet that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to always use high-quality ingredients and to cook the cube steak to your desired level of doneness. Happy cooking!
What is cube steak and how does it differ from other cuts of beef?
Cube steak is a type of beef cut that is made by pounding a thinly sliced piece of steak to make it more tender and easier to chew. This process, known as “cubing,” involves using a meat mallet or rolling pin to break down the fibers in the meat, resulting in a more uniform texture. Cube steak is often made from tougher cuts of beef, such as top round or top sirloin, which are then tenderized through the cubing process.
Compared to other cuts of beef, cube steak is generally more affordable and easier to cook. It is also a great option for those who prefer a leaner cut of meat, as it is often lower in fat than other cuts. Additionally, cube steak is a versatile cut that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including pan-frying, grilling, and sautéing.
What are the benefits of cooking cube steak in a skillet?
Cooking cube steak in a skillet offers several benefits. For one, it allows for a nice crust to form on the outside of the steak, which can add texture and flavor to the dish. Additionally, cooking in a skillet allows for a quick and even sear, which can help to lock in the juices of the steak. This method also allows for easy addition of aromatics and seasonings, which can enhance the flavor of the dish.
Another benefit of cooking cube steak in a skillet is that it is a relatively quick and easy process. Skillet cooking allows for a fast sear and cook time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you need to get a meal on the table quickly. Additionally, skillet cooking can be a one-pot meal, eliminating the need for multiple dishes and cleanup.
What type of skillet is best for cooking cube steak?
When it comes to cooking cube steak, a cast-iron or stainless steel skillet is often the best option. These types of skillets retain heat well and can achieve a nice sear on the steak. Additionally, they are durable and can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for searing and cooking the steak.
Avoid using non-stick skillets, as they can be damaged by high heat and may not achieve the same level of sear as a cast-iron or stainless steel skillet. Also, be sure to preheat the skillet before adding the steak, as this will help to achieve a nice crust on the outside.
How do I prevent cube steak from becoming tough or chewy?
To prevent cube steak from becoming tough or chewy, it’s essential to cook it correctly. Overcooking is a common mistake that can lead to tough, dry meat. To avoid this, cook the steak to the recommended internal temperature, and avoid overcooking it. Additionally, be sure to not press down on the steak with your spatula while it’s cooking, as this can squeeze out the juices and make the meat tough.
Another way to prevent cube steak from becoming tough is to not overcrowd the skillet. Cook the steaks one or two at a time, depending on the size of your skillet, to ensure that they have enough room to cook evenly. This will also help to prevent the steaks from steaming instead of searing, which can lead to a tough texture.
Can I add other ingredients to the skillet with the cube steak?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the skillet with the cube steak. In fact, this is a great way to add flavor and nutrients to the dish. Some popular options include onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and potatoes. Simply add the ingredients to the skillet before or after cooking the steak, depending on their cooking time.
When adding other ingredients, be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed. For example, if you’re adding vegetables, you may need to reduce the heat to prevent burning. Additionally, be sure to not overcrowd the skillet, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing.
How do I store leftover cube steak?
To store leftover cube steak, allow it to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it. Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a covered container. Refrigerated cube steak can be stored for up to three days, while frozen cube steak can be stored for up to three months.
When reheating leftover cube steak, be sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat the steak in the skillet, oven, or microwave, depending on your preference.
Can I cook cube steak in advance and reheat it later?
Yes, you can cook cube steak in advance and reheat it later. In fact, this can be a great way to save time during the week. Simply cook the steak as directed, then allow it to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it. When you’re ready to reheat the steak, simply heat it in the skillet, oven, or microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Keep in mind that reheated cube steak may not be as tender as freshly cooked steak. However, it can still be a delicious and convenient option for a quick meal. To minimize the loss of tenderness, be sure to reheat the steak gently and avoid overcooking it.