Cube steak is a flavorful cut of meat that’s perfect for budget-friendly meals. However, this lean cut of beef can be tough and chewy if not prepared properly. That’s where the art of tenderizing comes in.
Tenderizing cube steak doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. In fact, with a few simple techniques and ingredients, you can turn a tough piece of meat into a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth steak. In this article, we’ll explore how to make cube steak tender and share some tips and tricks to take your cooking game to the next level.
Understanding the Basics of Cube Steak
Cube steak is a cut of beef that comes from the top or bottom round. It gets its name from the small, cube-shaped indentations that are created when a butcher runs the meat through a tenderizing machine or a machine that has small blades or needles. This tenderizing process makes it easier to cook cube steak quickly, but it can also make the meat tough if not cooked properly.
To make cube steak tender, it’s essential to understand the basic characteristics of the meat. Cube steak is leaner and has less fat than other cuts of beef, making it prone to becoming dry and tough when overcooked. Its thinness means that it cooks quickly, so it’s important to avoid overcooking it. Additionally, because cube steak has been tenderized, it has a slightly chewy texture that some may find unappealing. Therefore, it’s essential to use the appropriate cooking techniques and methods to ensure that the meat is succulent and tender.
Prepping and Marinating: Essential Steps to Tenderizing Cube Steak
Prepping and marinating are crucial to tenderizing cube steak. Firstly, it is recommended to pound the steak with a meat mallet to break down the tough connective tissue and make it more tender. If you don’t have a meat mallet, you can use the back of a heavy skillet or a rolling pin to achieve the same effect. Be careful not to overdo it, or you may end up shredding the meat.
Secondly, marinating the cube steak in an acidic solution helps to break down the muscle fibers, making it more tender. Simple marinades can be made using ingredients such as vinegar, lemon juice, yogurt, or buttermilk. You can also add herbs, spices, and oils to infuse more flavor into the meat. Allow the steak to marinate for at least 2 hours up to overnight in the refrigerator. Once done, you can remove the marinade, pat the steak dry, and proceed with your chosen cooking method. With the right preparation and marinade, you can easily turn tough and chewy cube steak into a tender and delicious meal.
The Best Cooking Methods for Cube Steak
Cube steak is a tough cut of meat, but the right cooking method can make it tender and flavorful. Here are some of the best cooking methods for cube steak:
1. Pan-frying: Heat some oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Dredge it in flour, shaking off any excess. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Serve with gravy or a sauce of your choice.
2. Braising: Heat some oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Brown the steak on both sides, then add some beef broth or stock. Cover and simmer for 1-2 hours, until the steak is tender and the liquid has thickened into a gravy.
3. Slow-cooking: Cube steak is a great cut of meat for slow-cooking. Simply place it in a slow cooker with some broth or other liquid, along with any desired seasonings or vegetables. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, until the steak is fall-apart tender. Serve as is or shred for sandwiches or tacos.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture
When it comes to cooking cube steak, achieving the perfect texture is crucial to creating a delicious and enjoyable meal. One of the best tips for achieving the perfect texture is to tenderize the meat prior to cooking. You can do this by using a meat mallet to pound the steak, creating small cuts on the surface for even cooking and seasoning absorption. Another method is to marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes to an hour to help break down the tough fibers in the steak. This can also enhance the flavor of the meat.
Another helpful tip is to ensure that your cooking temperature is not too high or too low. High heat can cause the steak to become tough and chewy, while low heat can dry it out. It’s best to cook cube steak slowly over medium heat until it is cooked through but still tender. Finally, allow the meat to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing, as this helps the juices to redistribute and keep the meat tender before serving.
Flavorful and Creative Recipes for Cube Steak
When it comes to flavorful and creative recipes for cube steak, the options are endless. A popular and classic recipe is chicken fried steak, which involves dredging the steak in flour and seasonings before frying it to a golden brown. For a twist on this classic, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a bit of heat. Another delicious recipe is cube steak with mushroom gravy, which involves simmering the steak in a flavorful gravy made with mushrooms, onions, and beef broth. Serve it over mashed potatoes for a hearty and comforting meal.
If you’re looking for something a bit more exotic, try a Korean-style marinated cube steak. Simply marinate the steak in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger for at least an hour before grilling or pan-frying. For a Mexican twist, try a spiced-up version of cube steak tacos. Season the steak with cumin, chili powder, and garlic before pan-frying and serving in tortillas with all your favorite taco toppings. Regardless of which recipe you choose, these flavorful and creative ideas will take your cube steak to the next level.
How to Store and Reheat Cube Steak
Once you have cooked your cube steak to perfection, you’ll want to ensure that it remains tender and tasty even after reheating. The key here is to store it properly. First, let the meat cool down to room temperature before tightly wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. But make sure to store it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This will prevent bacteria from multiplying and spoiling the meat.
When it’s time to reheat the cube steak, remember to avoid microwaving it directly from the fridge to prevent uneven heating. Instead, let the meat sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before reheating. The best way to reheat cube steak is to use an oven or a stovetop. Preheat the oven to 400°F and heat the meat for about 10 minutes or until it’s warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat the steak in a skillet with a little bit of oil or butter over medium-high heat, flipping it once or twice for even heating. With these tips, you can enjoy a tender and delicious cube steak even after reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Making Cube Steak Tender
If you’re new to cooking cube steak, you might have a few questions about making it tender. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you out.
1. How do you tenderize cube steak? The key to tenderizing cube steak is to physically break down the tough muscle fibers. This can be done by pounding the meat with a meat mallet, marinating it in an acidic or enzymatic marinade, or cooking it low and slow in a moist environment.
2. How do you cook cube steak without it being tough? To prevent cube steak from becoming tough, avoid overcooking it. Cook it quickly over high heat until it’s just pink in the center, and then let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. You can also cook it in a slow cooker, braising liquid, or gravy to keep it moist and tender. By following these tips, you can make sure your cube steak is always tender and delicious.
Verdict
To sum up, cube steak can be made tender by following a few easy steps. First, it is important to pound the meat to break down the muscle fibers and create a more tender texture. Then, marinating the meat can add flavor and help tenderize it further. Cooking the steak low and slow in a liquid can also make it more tender and delicious.
It is possible to enjoy a delicious and tender cube steak if you take the time to prepare it properly. Follow these simple tips and you will be able to create a satisfying and flavorful meal that your entire family can enjoy. With a little bit of care and attention, you can turn an inexpensive cut of meat into a restaurant-quality dish.