Minute steak, also known as cube steak, is a thinly sliced cut of beef that is perfect for a quick and delicious meal. When cooked correctly, it can be tender and flavorful, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner. In this article, we will show you how to cook minute steak and gravy to perfection, with a step-by-step guide that covers everything from preparation to serving.
Understanding Minute Steak
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what minute steak is and how it’s different from other cuts of beef. Minute steak is a thinly sliced cut of beef, usually taken from the round or sirloin section. It’s called “minute” steak because it’s quick to cook, not because it’s only cooked for a minute.
Minute steak is often confused with other cuts of beef, such as flank steak or skirt steak. However, these cuts are typically thicker and more robust in flavor. Minute steak, on the other hand, is leaner and more delicate, making it perfect for a quick sauté or pan-fry.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When selecting a minute steak, look for a cut that is thinly sliced and has a uniform thickness. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and quickly. You can usually find minute steak in the meat department of your local grocery store, or you can ask your butcher to slice a round or sirloin steak into thin cutlets.
It’s also essential to choose a steak with good marbling, which is the white flecks of fat that are dispersed throughout the meat. Marbling adds flavor and tenderness to the steak, making it more enjoyable to eat.
Preparing the Steak
Before cooking the steak, it’s essential to prepare it properly. This includes seasoning the steak, pounding it thin, and dredging it in flour.
Seasoning the Steak
To season the steak, sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs, to add flavor to the steak.
Using a Marinade
If you want to add extra flavor to the steak, you can marinate it in a mixture of olive oil, acid (such as vinegar or lemon juice), and spices. A marinade can help to tenderize the steak and add depth of flavor.
To marinate the steak, place it in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours.
Pounding the Steak
To pound the steak, place it between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound it thin. This will help to tenderize the steak and make it more even in thickness.
Dredging the Steak in Flour
To dredge the steak in flour, place it in a shallow dish and sprinkle both sides with all-purpose flour. You can also use a seasoned flour, such as a mixture of flour, paprika, and garlic powder, to add extra flavor to the steak.
Cooking the Steak
Now that the steak is prepared, it’s time to cook it. There are several ways to cook minute steak, including pan-frying, sautéing, and grilling.
Pan-Frying the Steak
To pan-fry the steak, heat a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, to the pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
Place the steak in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, which should be at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
Using a Cast Iron Skillet
A cast iron skillet is a great pan to use for cooking minute steak. It retains heat well and can be heated to a high temperature, which is perfect for searing the steak.
To use a cast iron skillet, preheat it over medium-high heat for several minutes. Add a small amount of oil to the pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Place the steak in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Sautéing the Steak
To sauté the steak, heat a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, to the pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
Place the steak in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, which should be at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
Grilling the Steak
To grill the steak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, which should be at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
Making the Gravy
Now that the steak is cooked, it’s time to make the gravy. There are several ways to make gravy, including using the pan drippings, making a roux, and using a gravy mix.
Using the Pan Drippings
To make gravy using the pan drippings, remove the steak from the pan and place it on a plate. Leave the pan drippings in the pan and add a small amount of flour to thicken the gravy.
Whisk the flour into the pan drippings and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the gravy thickens. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
Making a Roux
To make a roux, melt a small amount of butter or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add an equal amount of flour to the pan and whisk it into the butter or oil.
Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, or until it reaches a light brown color. Gradually add a small amount of liquid, such as broth or milk, to the pan and whisk it into the roux.
Bring the gravy to a boil and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until it thickens. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
Using a Gravy Mix
To make gravy using a gravy mix, follow the instructions on the package. Typically, you will need to mix the gravy mix with a small amount of liquid, such as broth or milk, and bring it to a boil.
Cook the gravy for 1-2 minutes, or until it thickens. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving the Steak and Gravy
Now that the steak and gravy are cooked, it’s time to serve them. You can serve the steak and gravy together, or you can serve the steak with a side of gravy.
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few serving suggestions for minute steak and gravy:
- Serve the steak with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
- Serve the steak with a side of egg noodles and sautéed mushrooms.
- Serve the steak with a side of roasted vegetables and quinoa.
Conclusion
Cooking minute steak and gravy is a quick and easy process that can be completed in under 30 minutes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and tender steak with a rich and flavorful gravy.
Remember to choose the right cut of meat, prepare the steak properly, and cook it to the right temperature. You can also experiment with different seasonings and marinades to add extra flavor to the steak.
With these tips and techniques, you can create a mouth-watering minute steak and gravy that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What is minute steak and how does it differ from other types of steak?
Minute steak is a thinly sliced cut of beef, typically taken from the sirloin or round. It is called minute steak because it cooks quickly, usually within a minute or two per side. This type of steak is different from other types of steak in that it is much thinner and more prone to overcooking.
The thinness of minute steak makes it ideal for dishes where you want a tender and flavorful piece of beef without the need for a long cooking time. It is also often less expensive than thicker cuts of steak, making it a great option for those on a budget. However, it does require some care when cooking to ensure that it is cooked to perfection without becoming tough or dry.
What are the key ingredients needed to cook minute steak and gravy?
The key ingredients needed to cook minute steak and gravy include the minute steak itself, all-purpose flour, butter or oil, beef broth, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and thyme. You will also need some all-purpose flour to thicken the gravy.
In addition to these ingredients, you may also want to have some optional ingredients on hand, such as onions, garlic, and mushrooms, which can add extra flavor to the dish. You will also need a skillet or frying pan with a heavy bottom, as this will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the steak from burning.
How do I prepare the minute steak for cooking?
To prepare the minute steak for cooking, start by seasoning both sides of the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Then, dredge the steak in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This will help to create a crispy crust on the steak as it cooks.
Next, heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Once the butter has melted or the oil is hot, add the steak to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Be careful not to overcook the steak, as it can become tough and dry.
How do I make the gravy to accompany the minute steak?
To make the gravy, start by removing the cooked steak from the pan and setting it aside to rest. Then, reduce the heat to medium and add a small amount of all-purpose flour to the pan, stirring to combine with the remaining butter or oil. Cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, or until it is lightly browned and has a nutty aroma.
Next, gradually add the beef broth to the pan, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it has thickened to your liking. Season the gravy with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings, and serve it over the cooked minute steak.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking minute steak and gravy?
One common mistake to avoid when cooking minute steak and gravy is overcooking the steak. Minute steak is best cooked to medium-rare or medium, as it can become tough and dry if it is overcooked. Another mistake to avoid is not using enough flour to thicken the gravy, as this can result in a thin and watery sauce.
To avoid these mistakes, make sure to cook the steak for the recommended 1-2 minutes per side, and use a thermometer to check the internal temperature. Also, be sure to use enough flour to thicken the gravy, and whisk constantly as you add the broth to avoid lumps.
Can I cook minute steak and gravy in advance?
While it is possible to cook minute steak and gravy in advance, it is not recommended. Minute steak is best cooked just before serving, as it can become tough and dry if it is refrigerated or frozen. The gravy can be made ahead of time, but it is best to reheat it just before serving to ensure that it is hot and flavorful.
If you do need to cook the minute steak and gravy in advance, make sure to refrigerate or freeze the steak as soon as it is cooked, and reheat it just before serving. You can also make the gravy ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it, then reheat it just before serving.
What are some variations on the classic minute steak and gravy recipe?
There are many variations on the classic minute steak and gravy recipe that you can try. One option is to add some sautéed onions, garlic, and mushrooms to the pan with the steak, which can add extra flavor to the dish. You can also try using different seasonings, such as paprika or thyme, to give the steak a unique flavor.
Another option is to serve the minute steak and gravy with some roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, which can add some extra nutrition and flavor to the dish. You can also try serving the steak with some mashed potatoes or egg noodles, which can help to soak up the flavorful gravy.