Beef round steak is a classic, versatile cut of meat that offers a range of possibilities when it comes to preparing flavorful meals. Known for its lean nature and deep beefy flavor, it’s a budget-friendly option that can be transformed into tender and delicious dishes with the right cooking techniques. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or looking for something impressive to serve at a gathering, beef round steak recipes are a great way to make hearty, satisfying meals.
In this article, we’ll explore several beef round steak recipes that are easy to follow, perfect for any home cook, and sure to please your taste buds. Let’s dive into the world of beef round steak, discovering the secrets of this affordable yet flavorful cut of meat, and how to elevate your culinary game with it.
What is Beef Round Steak?
Beef round steak is a cut taken from the rear leg of the cow, often considered less tender than other cuts like ribeye or tenderloin. However, what it lacks in natural tenderness, it makes up for in flavor and affordability. Round steak can be quite lean, with minimal marbling, which makes it important to cook this cut correctly to avoid a tough or dry result.
The cut can come from three different parts of the round: top round, bottom round, or eye of round. Each has its own unique characteristics, but all three are perfect for slow cooking methods that allow the meat to become tender and juicy. With the right recipe and approach, you can turn beef round steak into a delicious meal that your family will love.
Cooking Techniques for Tender Beef Round Steak
Before we dive into the specific beef round steak recipes, let’s talk about the best cooking techniques to make sure your steak turns out tender and flavorful.
1. Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is one of the most effective ways to break down the tough fibers in beef round steak. Whether you use a slow cooker, an oven, or a Dutch oven, this method involves cooking the steak at a low temperature for an extended period. The result? Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef that’s full of flavor.
2. Marinating
Marinating beef round steak before cooking helps to tenderize the meat while infusing it with flavor. Ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or even yogurt, which are acidic, can help to break down the muscle fibers, making the steak softer. A good marinade can also enhance the beef’s natural taste, adding depth and richness.
3. Grilling
Although beef round steak is not as naturally tender as other cuts, it can still be grilled if prepared properly. The key is to cook the steak over high heat for a short period to achieve a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender. You may want to pound the steak or use a tenderizing mallet to break down the fibers further before grilling.
4. Braising
Braising is another fantastic method for cooking beef round steak. It involves searing the meat on high heat and then cooking it slowly in a liquid, such as beef broth, wine, or a combination of the two. The slow simmering process makes the meat tender and allows it to absorb the flavors of the braising liquid.
Delicious Beef Round Steak Recipes to Try
Now that we’ve covered some essential techniques, let’s get into some mouth-watering beef round steak recipes that you can easily make at home. These dishes will showcase the versatility of beef round steak while ensuring tenderness and maximum flavor.
1. Classic Braised Beef Round Steak
Braised beef round steak is a timeless dish that’s both comforting and delicious. This recipe is ideal for a cozy family dinner or when you need a meal that’s easy to prepare but packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef round steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef: Season the beef round steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant.
- Start Braising: Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), diced tomatoes, thyme, and bay leaf to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Add the Beef: Return the beef to the skillet, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Serve: Serve the braised beef round steak with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
2. Grilled Beef Round Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Grilling beef round steak gives it a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with a fresh, vibrant chimichurri sauce. This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts or a casual weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef round steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chimichurri: In a bowl, mix the parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Grill the Steak: Preheat your grill to high heat. Rub the beef round steak with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Grill: Place the steak on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until your desired level of doneness is achieved.
- Serve: Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly. Drizzle with the chimichurri sauce and serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
3. Slow Cooker Beef Round Steak Stew
A slow cooker beef round steak stew is a great option for busy days when you want a hands-off recipe that results in a flavorful and hearty meal. The long cooking time ensures that the beef becomes tender, and the vegetables soak up all the delicious flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef round steak, cut into cubes
- 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Place the cubed beef round steak, carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic in your slow cooker.
- Add the Liquid: Pour the beef broth and tomato sauce over the ingredients. Add the rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
4. Beef Round Steak Stir-Fry
For a quick and easy dinner, a beef round steak stir-fry is a fantastic choice. It’s a simple, versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef round steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions:
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix the beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Cook the Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Add the broccoli, bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Stir-Fry the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles for a quick, satisfying meal.
Tips for Perfect Beef Round Steak Dishes
Here are a few extra tips to help you get the best results when preparing beef round steak recipes:
- Choose the Right Cooking Method: Since beef round steak is lean, it can become tough if overcooked. Opt for slow cooking methods or quick, high-heat cooking for the best results.
- Use a Meat Tenderizer: Pounding the steak with a meat tenderizer can help break down the tough fibers and result in a more tender steak.
- Don’t Skimp on Marinades: Marinades can go a long way in making your beef round steak more flavorful and tender. Let the steak marinate for at least a few hours, or overnight if possible.
Conclusion
Beef round steak is an affordable and versatile cut that can be transformed into mouth-watering dishes with the right cooking methods. While it may not be as tender as some pricier cuts, techniques like slow cooking, marinating, grilling, and braising help bring out its best qualities. Whether you’re making a classic braised dish, grilling with a fresh chimichurri, or whipping up a quick stir-fry, beef round steak offers plenty of opportunities for delicious, hearty meals.
The key to mastering beef round steak recipes lies in patience and preparation. Slow cooking or marinating helps tenderize the meat, while high-heat methods like grilling can still deliver fantastic results if handled correctly. With these techniques, you can enjoy flavorful, tender beef round steak dishes that are perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions.
By experimenting with different recipes and flavor profiles, you’ll find that beef round steak can become a favorite ingredient in your kitchen, offering a balance of taste, texture, and affordability. Try the recipes mentioned, and enjoy the savory flavors this classic cut has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the best way to cook beef round steak?
Slow cooking or braising is the best way to cook beef round steak, as it allows the tough fibers to break down and the meat to become tender.
2. Can beef round steak be grilled?
Yes, you can grill beef round steak, but it’s important to marinate or tenderize it beforehand to ensure it doesn’t become too tough.
3. How can I tenderize beef round steak?
You can tenderize beef round steak by marinating it in acidic ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice, or by using a meat mallet to break down the fibers.
4. What dishes can I make with beef round steak?
You can make a variety of dishes with beef round steak, including braised beef, stews, grilled steak, or even stir-fries.
5. Is beef round steak a healthy cut of meat?
While it’s leaner than some other cuts, we’re focusing here on the delicious ways to cook beef round steak, so it’s all about the flavor!