How to Make Perfect Cube Steak Gravy Every Time
Making a delicious cube steak gravy is not as hard as it seems. With just some simple steps and ingredients, you can master this recipe and impress your family and friends. Cube steak, also known as minute steak, is a beef cut that has been tenderized and pounded thin. It’s a popular cut for making fried steak, but it’s also perfect for making a savory and rich gravy that pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, and vegetables.
To make cube steak gravy, you’ll need some basic ingredients such as flour, oil, butter, beef broth, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You’ll start by dredging the cube steaks in the flour mixture, which will create a nice crust and help thicken the gravy. Then, you’ll fry the steaks in a skillet until they’re browned on both sides. From there, you’ll add some butter and onions to the skillet and cook until the onions are softened. Finally, you’ll add the beef broth and seasoning to the skillet, bring it to a boil, and let it simmer for a few minutes until the gravy thickens. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and comforting meal that will be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.
Cube steak is a versatile and delicious cut of beef that’s perfect for making rich and savory gravy. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, making cube steak gravy is quick and easy. In this article, we’ll show you step-by-step how to make perfect cube steak gravy that’s bubbling with flavor.
Section 1: Choosing the Right Cube Steak
Getting the Perfect Cut of Cube Steak
When it comes to making the perfect cube steak gravy, the first step is selecting the right cut of cube steak. Look for cube steak that’s been tenderized, which means it’s been pounded with a meat mallet to break down the tough muscle fibers. This will make it easier to cook and give the gravy a smoother texture.
Section 2: Preparing the Cube Steak
Seasoning and Preparing the Cube Steak
Before you start cooking your cube steak, season it generously with salt and black pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices, such as garlic powder or paprika, to give it extra flavor. Dredge the cube steak in flour to help it brown and to thicken the gravy later on.
Section 3: Cooking the Cube Steak
Cooking the Cube Steak to Perfection
To cook the cube steak, heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cube steak and cook until it’s browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This will give it a nice crust and lock in the juices. Remove the steak from the pan and set it aside.
Section 4: Making the Gravy
Creating the Perfect Gravy
To make the gravy, you’ll need to create a roux by whisking together flour and butter in the same skillet you used to cook the cube steak. Cook the roux for a few minutes until it’s golden brown and then gradually whisk in beef broth until the gravy thickens. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and other herbs and spices to taste.
Section 5: Adding the Cube Steak
Incorporating the Cube Steak into the Gravy
Once the gravy is thickened, add the cube steak back into the skillet. Spoon the gravy over the steak until it’s coated and then simmer it for 5-7 minutes until the steak is fully cooked and the gravy is hot.
Section 6: Tips and Tricks
Expert Tips for Making the Best Cube Steak Gravy
To take your cube steak gravy to the next level, try these expert tips:
– Use a cast-iron skillet for even heating and better browning
– Substitute chicken broth for beef broth for a lighter flavor
– Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a tangy kick
– Garnish the finished dish with chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness
Section 7: Serving Suggestions
What to Serve with Cube Steak Gravy
Cube steak gravy is a hearty and filling dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf. Serve it with crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the delicious gravy.
Section 8: Storing Leftovers
How to Store and Reheat Cube Steak Gravy
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s hot and bubbly.
Section 9: Variations
Ways to Customize Cube Steak Gravy
Cube steak gravy is a classic dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. Try these variations:
– Add mushrooms or onions to the gravy for extra flavor
– Use different herbs and spices, such as thyme or rosemary
– Substitute milk or cream for some of the beef broth for a creamier texture
Section 10: Final Thoughts
In Conclusion
Making cube steak gravy may seem daunting, but with these step-by-step instructions, it’s easier than ever. With the right cut of beef, a few basic ingredients, and some expert tips, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious and satisfying meal in no time. So go ahead, give it a try, and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!
Preparing and cooking the Cubed Steak
After tenderizing the steak, it’s time to prepare and cook it to ensure that it is tender, juicy and flavorful. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Season the Steak
Before cooking, generously season the cubed steak with your preferred seasoning. You can use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Use your hands to rub the seasonings evenly on both sides of the steak.
2. Dredge the Steak in Flour
Dredge the seasoned cubed steak in flour. The flour helps to create a crispy crust on the steak and also helps to thicken the gravy. Be sure to shake off any excess flour.
3. Heat up the Oil
Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat and add about 2-3 tablespoons of oil. You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or any oil with a high smoke point.
4. Cook the Steak
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cubed steak to the skillet. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until it is browned and crispy. This will give the steak a nice sear that adds flavor and make the steak tender.
5. Remove the Steak from the Skillet
Using a pair of tongs, take out the steak from the skillet and set it aside. Keep the juices and brown bits that have formed in the skillet; these are essential for making the gravy.
6. Saute the Onions and Garlic
Add some sliced onions and minced garlic to the same skillet with the remaining oil. Saute the onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant.
7. Add Beef Broth
Pour about 1 1/2 cups of beef broth into the skillet, stirring constantly to scrape off any bits of meat and flour stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes or until the broth has slightly reduced.
8. Add the Cubed Steak Back into the Skillet
Gently place the cubed steak back into the skillet and spoon the gravy over it. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the steak is cooked all the way through and the gravy has thickened.
9. Add More Seasoning If Needed
After simmering, check the seasoning of the gravy and adjust if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or any other seasoning to achieve the desired taste.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the cubed steak is done, serve it hot with your favorite side dish such as mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables. The delicious and flavorful gravy can be poured on top or served on the side. Enjoy!
Ingredients Needed to Make Cube Steak Gravy
Making a delicious cube steak gravy is actually quite simple. It requires just a few simple ingredients that are affordable and easy to find at any grocery store. Here are the basic ingredients you will need:
Ingredients | Quantity |
---|---|
Cube steak | 1 pound |
All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
Salt | 1 teaspoon |
Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Butter | 2 tablespoons |
Onion | 1 medium |
Garlic | 3 cloves |
Beef broth | 2 cups |
Worcestershire sauce | 2 tablespoons |
Thyme | 1/2 teaspoon |
Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
Cold water | 2 tablespoons |
Preparation Steps for Cube Steak Gravy
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients to make some delicious cube steak gravy, let’s dive right into how to prepare it:
1. Tenderize the Steaks
Before you start preparing the gravy, you need to tenderize the cube steaks. You can do this by placing the steaks between two sheets of plastic wrap and pounding them with a meat mallet until they are approximately 1/4 inch thick.
2. Season the Steaks
Season the cube steaks with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This will help to flavor the steaks and prepare them for the flour coating.
3. Coat the Steaks in Flour Mixture
In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Dredge the seasoned cube steaks in the flour mixture until they are fully coated.
4. Brown the Steaks
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned cube steaks and cook them for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until they are browned on both sides. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside.
5. Cook the Onion and Garlic
Add the butter, chopped onions, and minced garlic to the same skillet used to cook the cube steaks. Cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Cooking the Gravy
6. Add in the Beef Broth and Worcestershire Sauce
After the onions and garlic have been cooked, add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
7. Whisk in the Cornstarch Slurry
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until it forms a smooth slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the skillet while whisking constantly. The gravy should start to thicken immediately.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Add the browned cube steaks back into the skillet, and spoon the gravy over the steaks. Let the steaks simmer in the gravy for a few minutes until they are heated through. Serve with your preferred side dishes and enjoy!
Thanks for reading, now go make some gravy!
I hope this article helped you learn how to make delicious gravy for your cube steak. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this recipe is a true comfort food that’ll get you through even the toughest days. If you enjoyed this article, don’t forget to come back and check out the future articles. Thanks again for reading, and happy cooking!
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