How To Cook Cube Steak In Slow Cooker

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Introduction

Welcome to the world of slow cooking! If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to prepare cube steak, then using a slow cooker is the perfect method to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Slow cooking allows the meat to simmer in its juices for hours, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that is both tender and flavorful.

But first, let’s understand what cube steak is exactly. Cube steak, also known as minute steak or Swiss steak, is a cut of beef that has been tenderized by pounding with a meat mallet. It has a unique texture with tiny indentations on the surface, giving it the name “cube” steak. This tenderizing process helps break down tough muscle fibers, making the meat more tender and easier to cook.

Why should you use a slow cooker for cooking cube steak? Well, slow cookers offer a convenient and hassle-free way of preparing meals. You simply need to toss in the ingredients and let the slow cooker do its magic. The low and slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a dish that is bursting with taste.

Now let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious slow cooker cube steak recipe.

What is Cube Steak?

Cube steak is a popular cut of beef that has been mechanically tenderized, typically using a meat tenderizer or a machine with small blades. This tenderizing process breaks down the tough connective tissues and fibers in the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. The name “cube steak” comes from the small, cube-like indentations that are left on the surface of the meat after it has been tenderized.

Traditionally, cube steak is made from top round or top sirloin cuts of beef. These cuts are known for their leaner meat and are often less expensive than premium cuts. Cube steak is a versatile cut that can be used in a variety of dishes, including stews, stir-fries, sandwiches, and of course, slow-cooked recipes.

When cooked properly, cube steak can be incredibly tender and flavorful. Its unique texture makes it ideal for absorbing flavors from marinades, sauces, and seasonings, making it a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike.

Some people may confuse cube steak with Salisbury steak. While both dishes are made from ground beef, cube steak is made from whole pieces of meat that have been mechanically tenderized, while Salisbury steak is made from ground meat formed into patties. The tenderizing process gives cube steak a different texture and taste compared to ground meat. However, both cube steak and Salisbury steak can be delicious when prepared with the right ingredients and cooking methods.

Now that you know what cube steak is, let’s move on to why using a slow cooker is the perfect method for cooking this flavorful cut of meat.

Why Use a Slow Cooker?

Using a slow cooker has numerous advantages when it comes to cooking cube steak. Here are a few reasons why you should consider using a slow cooker for this delicious cut of meat:

1. Convenience: Slow cookers are incredibly convenient. Once you’ve prepared the ingredients and set the cooking time, you can walk away and let the slow cooker do all the work. Unlike stovetop cooking, there’s no need to constantly check and stir the dish.
2. Tenderizing: Cube steak, although already mechanically tenderized, can still benefit from the long, slow cooking process. The low and slow heat helps break down the connective tissues and fibers further, resulting in an even more tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
3. Flavor Enhancement: Slow cooking allows the flavors in the dish to develop and meld together. As the cube steak simmers in its own juices and absorbs the flavors of the seasonings and ingredients, it becomes incredibly flavorful and savory.
4. Time-saving: While slow cooking requires a longer cooking time, it doesn’t require constant supervision. This means you can set up the slow cooker in the morning, go about your day, and return to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal in the evening.
5. Energy Efficiency: Slow cookers are designed to use a relatively low amount of electricity, making them more energy-efficient compared to conventional ovens or stovetop cooking.
6. Versatility: Slow cookers are incredibly versatile appliances. In addition to cooking cube steak, you can use them for a wide range of dishes, including soups, stews, chili, roasts, and even desserts.

In summary, using a slow cooker is a convenient and efficient way to cook cube steak. It helps to further tenderize the meat, develop its flavors, and allows you to save time and energy. Now that you know the benefits of using a slow cooker, let’s move on to the ingredients and step-by-step instructions for cooking cube steak in a slow cooker.

Ingredients

To make delicious slow cooker cube steak, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of cube steak
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of beef broth
• 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup of soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Note: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. You can also add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms to the slow cooker for added flavor and texture.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for cooking cube steak in a slow cooker.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to cook tender and flavorful cube steak in a slow cooker:

1. Start by seasoning the cube steak with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. Gently massage the seasoning into the meat to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
2. Place the thinly sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Next, place the seasoned cube steak on top of the onions and garlic, arranging them in a single layer if possible.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Pour this mixture over the cube steak.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The low and slow cooking process will ensure that the cube steak becomes tender and flavorful.
6. If desired, you can thicken the cooking liquid by ladling out a small amount of the liquid into a bowl. Mix in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth, then add it back into the slow cooker. This will help create a thicker gravy-like sauce.
7. Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the cube steak from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving platter.
8. You can serve the cube steak with the cooking liquid as a flavorful sauce, or you can strain the liquid and thicken it further to create a rich gravy.
9. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or thyme, if desired.
10. Serve the slow cooker cube steak with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Now that you have successfully cooked cube steak using a slow cooker, let’s compare the benefits of slow cooker cooking versus stovetop cooking.

Slow Cooker vs. Stovetop Cooking

When it comes to cooking cube steak, both slow cooker and stovetop methods have their own advantages and considerations. Let’s take a look at how slow cooker cooking compares to stovetop cooking:

Slow Cooker Cooking:

Advantages:

• Convenience: Slow cookers allow for hands-off cooking. Once you’ve set up the ingredients, you can let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
• Tenderizing: Slow cooking breaks down the tough connective tissues in the cube steak, resulting in a tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Flavor development: The long cooking time in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a dish that is rich and flavorful.
• Time-saving: While slow cooking does require longer cooking times, it frees up your time for other activities as you don’t have to constantly monitor the dish.

Considerations:

• Cooking time: Slow cooker cooking is a slower process compared to stovetop cooking. It typically requires several hours of cooking time to achieve the desired tenderness and flavor.
• Limited browning: Slow cookers do not offer the same level of browning or caramelization as stovetop cooking methods.
• Less control: With slow cooking, it can be more difficult to adjust flavors or make last-minute changes to the dish.

Stovetop Cooking:

Advantages:

• Quick cooking: Stovetop cooking allows for rapid cooking and browning of the cube steak, making it a great option when you’re short on time.
• Browning and caramelization: Stovetop cooking methods like pan-searing or grilling allow for the development of a delicious outer crust on the cube steak, adding depth of flavor.
• Control over flavors: Stovetop cooking allows you to adjust seasonings and flavors as you go, giving you more control over the final taste of the dish.

Considerations:

• Tenderness: Cube steak may require additional tenderizing methods, such as marinating or pounding, to achieve optimal tenderness on the stovetop.
• Attention required: Stovetop cooking requires constant monitoring and stirring to prevent burning or overcooking.
• Less hands-off: Unlike slow cooker cooking, stovetop cooking requires your full attention throughout the cooking process.

Both slow cooker and stovetop cooking methods can yield delicious results with cube steak. The choice of which method to use depends on your personal preferences, time constraints, and desired level of control over the cooking process.

Now that you’re familiar with the benefits and considerations of both cooking methods, let’s move on to some tips and tricks to ensure your slow-cooked cube steak turns out perfectly every time.

For a tender and flavorful cube steak in the slow cooker, sear the steak in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This will help lock in the juices and enhance the overall taste of the meat.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips and tricks to ensure your slow-cooked cube steak is a success:

• Consider marinating the cube steak before cooking it in the slow cooker. This will add even more flavor and tenderness to the meat. You can use a simple marinade of your choice, such as a combination of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and herbs.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce or gravy, you can mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold water and add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help thicken the cooking liquid.
• Don’t overcook the cube steak. While slow cooking is designed to make the meat tender, overcooking can lead to dry and tough results. The ideal cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so follow the recommended cooking times as a guideline and adjust accordingly to achieve your desired level of tenderness.
• Feel free to add additional vegetables to the slow cooker for added flavor and texture. Carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms work well with cube steak. Just make sure to cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• For a more pronounced flavor, you can brown the cube steak before placing it in the slow cooker. Searing the meat in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side will help develop a rich caramelized crust.
• Consider deglazing the skillet used for browning the cube steak with some beef broth or red wine, then pouring the liquid into the slow cooker. This will help capture all the delicious flavors and juices accumulated during the browning process.
• If you’re short on time, you can opt for the high-heat setting on your slow cooker. Keep in mind that the cooking time will be shorter, so adjust accordingly.
• When serving the slow-cooked cube steak, try pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or buttered noodles to complement the flavors.
• Leftover slow-cooked cube steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Now that you’re armed with these useful tips and tricks, it’s time to enjoy your delicious slow-cooked cube steak. Let’s explore some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Serving Suggestions

There are several delicious ways to serve and enjoy your slow-cooked cube steak. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve the cube steak with the cooking liquid as a flavorful sauce. Spoon the juices over the meat to keep it moist and add an extra layer of flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker and richer sauce, strain the cooking liquid from the slow cooker and transfer it to a saucepan. In a separate small bowl, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the saucepan and cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens. Pour the thickened sauce over the cube steak.
• Pair the slow-cooked cube steak with your favorite side dishes. Creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments to the tender meat.
• Create a delicious sandwich by thinly slicing the slow-cooked cube steak and layering it on a crusty roll or baguette. Add some sautéed onions and peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• For a heartier meal, serve the cube steak over a bed of fluffy rice or buttery egg noodles.
• Add a fresh and vibrant touch by serving a side salad with your slow-cooked cube steak. A simple mixed green salad or a tangy coleslaw will balance out the richness of the meat.
• If you’re a fan of spiciness, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes or hot sauce over the cube steak for a fiery kick.
• Garnish the dish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and freshness.
• Don’t forget about leftovers! Slow-cooked cube steak makes a delicious filling for sandwiches, wraps, or even tacos the next day.

Whether you choose to enjoy the slow-cooked cube steak as a main dish with sides or as a filling for sandwiches, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience and make the most out of this flavorful and tender meat.

Now that you’ve learned how to cook cube steak in a slow cooker and explored various serving suggestions, you can confidently prepare this delectable dish for your family and friends. Enjoy!

Remember, always cook cube steak to a safe internal temperature, which is 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare and 160°F (71°C) for medium, to ensure food safety.

Conclusion

Slow cooker cube steak is a fantastic dish that combines tenderness and flavor in a convenient and hassle-free way. By using a slow cooker, you can achieve perfectly tender and juicy cube steak with minimal effort. The low and slow cooking method allows the meat to simmer in its own juices, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavors.

We started by understanding what cube steak is and how it is mechanically tenderized. This unique cut of beef is known for its small indentations and tender texture, making it a popular choice for slow cooking.

Using a slow cooker offers numerous advantages, including convenience, tenderizing properties, flavor enhancement, and time-saving benefits. It allows you to create a delicious meal with minimal hands-on effort, and the results are always impressive.

We walked through the step-by-step instructions for cooking cube steak in a slow cooker, from seasoning the meat to adding the right amounts of broth and sauces. The cooking process gently breaks down the connective tissues and infuses the meat with delicious flavors.

We also highlighted the differences between slow cooker cooking and stovetop cooking, outlining the benefits and considerations of both methods. While the slow cooker excels in convenience and time-saving, stovetop cooking offers faster cooking times and more control over flavors.

To ensure a successful slow-cooked cube steak, we provided some useful tips and tricks, such as marinating the meat, thickening the sauce, and adding vegetables for added flavor. These tips will help you achieve the best possible results every time you cook cube steak in a slow cooker.

Lastly, we explored various serving suggestions, from serving the cube steak with its cooking liquid to creating delicious sandwiches or pairing it with side dishes like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. These serving suggestions will help you create a well-rounded and satisfying meal with your slow-cooked cube steak.

In conclusion, cooking cube steak in a slow cooker is a great way to achieve a tender and flavorful dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, using a slow cooker will result in a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

So go ahead, grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a mouthwatering meal of slow cooker cube steak. Your taste buds will thank you!