Beef cube steak is a beloved dish in many parts of the world, and for good reason. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and can be cooked in a variety of ways. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook beef cube steak with gravy, a classic recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
What is Beef Cube Steak?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at what beef cube steak is. Beef cube steak is a type of steak that’s been tenderized by pounding or rolling it to break down the fibers. This process makes the steak more tender and easier to chew, making it a great option for those who prefer a softer texture.
Beef cube steak is usually made from top round or top sirloin, and it’s often coated with a mixture of flour, spices, and sometimes eggs before being cooked. The coating helps to create a crispy exterior, while the inside remains tender and juicy.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When it comes to choosing the right cut of meat for beef cube steak, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect cut:
Look for Top Round or Top Sirloin
Top round and top sirloin are the most common cuts of meat used for beef cube steak. These cuts are lean and tender, making them perfect for this type of dish.
Choose a Cut with a Good Balance of Marbling
Marbling refers to the amount of fat that’s dispersed throughout the meat. A good balance of marbling will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful. Look for a cut with a moderate amount of marbling, as this will help to create a tender and juicy steak.
Avoid Cuts with Too Much Fat
While a little bit of fat is okay, too much can make the steak greasy and overpowering. Avoid cuts with large amounts of fat, as these can be difficult to cook evenly.
Preparing the Meat
Now that you’ve selected the perfect cut of meat, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here are the steps to follow:
Pound the Meat to the Right Thickness
Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the meat to the right thickness. You want the meat to be about 1/4 inch thick, as this will help it to cook evenly.
Season the Meat with Salt and Pepper
Sprinkle both sides of the meat with salt and pepper. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat and add depth to the dish.
Coat the Meat with Flour
In a shallow dish, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Coat both sides of the meat with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Cooking the Beef Cube Steak
Now that the meat is prepared, it’s time to cook it. Here are the steps to follow:
Heat a Skillet Over Medium-High Heat
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to be hot, but not smoking.
Add a Small Amount of 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 vegetable oil or canola oil work well.
Add the Meat to the Skillet
Carefully add the meat to the skillet, away from you. You want to add the meat to the skillet in a way that prevents hot oil from splashing onto your skin.
Cook the Meat for 3-4 Minutes on Each Side
Cook the meat for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be at least 130°F (54°C).
Making the Gravy
While the meat is cooking, you can start making the gravy. Here are the steps to follow:
Remove the Meat from the Skillet
Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Leave the Drippings in the Skillet
Leave the drippings in the skillet, as these will help to create a rich and flavorful gravy.
Add a Small Amount of Flour to the Skillet
Add a small amount of flour to the skillet, just enough to coat the bottom. This will help to thicken the gravy.
Gradually Add Broth to the Skillet
Gradually add broth to the skillet, whisking constantly. You can use any type of broth you like, but beef broth works well.
Bring the Gravy to a Boil
Bring the gravy to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the gravy cook for a few minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency.
Serving the Beef Cube Steak with Gravy
Now that the meat and gravy are cooked, it’s time to serve. Here are a few ideas for serving:
Serve with Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with beef cube steak. Simply boil diced potatoes until they’re tender, then mash with butter and milk.
Serve with Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a tasty and healthy side dish that pairs well with beef cube steak. Simply toss your favorite vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and Brussels sprouts) with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.
Serve with Egg Noodles
Egg noodles are a comforting side dish that pairs well with beef cube steak. Simply cook egg noodles according to the package instructions, then serve with the beef cube steak and gravy.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef cube steak | 1 pound |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Vegetable oil | 1/4 cup |
| Beef broth | 2 cups |
By following these steps and using the right ingredients, you can create a delicious beef cube steak with gravy that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or egg noodles, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household.
What is a beef cube steak and where can I find it?
A beef cube steak is a type of steak that has been tenderized by pounding or using a meat mallet to break down the fibers. This process makes the steak more tender and easier to chew. You can usually find beef cube steak in the meat department of most supermarkets, often labeled as “cube steak” or “minute steak.”
If you’re having trouble finding beef cube steak in stores, you can also try looking for it at butcher shops or specialty meat markets. Some stores may also carry pre-tenderized steak or steak that has been pre-cut into small pieces, which can be used as a substitute for beef cube steak.
What is the best way to season a beef cube steak?
The best way to season a beef cube steak is to use a combination of salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. You can also try marinating the steak in your favorite seasonings and sauces before cooking it. Some popular seasonings for beef cube steak include garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
When seasoning the steak, be sure to sprinkle the seasonings evenly over both sides of the steak. You can also try rubbing the seasonings into the meat to help them penetrate deeper into the steak. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the steak and add extra flavor to the dish.
How do I cook a beef cube steak to the right temperature?
To cook a beef cube steak to the right temperature, you’ll want to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. The recommended internal temperature for beef is at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.
When cooking the steak, be sure to cook it for the recommended amount of time based on the thickness of the steak and the heat level of your stovetop or oven. You can also try using a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan to cook the steak, as these types of pans retain heat well and can help to cook the steak evenly.
Can I cook a beef cube steak in the oven instead of on the stovetop?
Yes, you can cook a beef cube steak in the oven instead of on the stovetop. In fact, cooking the steak in the oven can be a great way to cook it evenly and prevent it from burning. To cook the steak in the oven, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and place the steak in a baking dish or oven-safe pan.
Cook the steak in the oven for 10-15 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness. You can also try cooking the steak in the oven with some gravy or sauce, as this can help to add extra flavor to the dish. Just be sure to cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the gravy from burning.
How do I make a good gravy to go with my beef cube steak?
To make a good gravy to go with your beef cube steak, you’ll want to start by deglazing the pan that you cooked the steak in. This means adding a small amount of liquid to the pan and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. You can use beef broth, wine, or even water as the liquid.
Once you’ve deglazed the pan, you can add some flour or cornstarch to thicken the gravy. Whisk the mixture together and cook it for a few minutes, or until it thickens to your liking. You can also try adding some seasonings or herbs to the gravy to give it extra flavor. Some popular options include thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.
Can I serve beef cube steak with anything other than mashed potatoes and gravy?
Yes, you can serve beef cube steak with a variety of sides other than mashed potatoes and gravy. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, sautéed greens, and even pasta or rice. You can also try serving the steak with a side of bread or rolls, as this can help to soak up any extra gravy.
When choosing a side dish to serve with your beef cube steak, be sure to consider the flavors and textures of the dish. For example, if you’re serving the steak with a rich and savory gravy, you may want to choose a side dish that’s lighter and fresher, such as a salad or roasted vegetables.
Can I make beef cube steak ahead of time and reheat it later?
Yes, you can make beef cube steak ahead of time and reheat it later. In fact, this can be a great way to save time and make meal prep easier. To reheat the steak, simply place it in a pan or oven-safe dish and add a small amount of liquid, such as beef broth or water.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and heat the steak in the oven or on the stovetop until it’s warmed through. You can also try reheating the steak in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. It’s also a good idea to reheat the steak with some gravy or sauce, as this can help to keep it moist and add extra flavor.