Recipes with Cube Steak in Crock Pot: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Cube steak, a cut of beef that has been tenderized with a process involving pounding, has gained popularity in recent years due to its versatility and affordability. One of the most convenient and delicious ways to prepare cube steak is by using a crock pot. This slow-cooking method allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a tender and juicy dish. In this article, we will explore various recipes for cube steak in crock pot, highlighting the benefits of this cooking method and providing you with the knowledge to create mouthwatering meals.
The Benefits of Cooking Cube Steak in Crock Pot
1. Convenience
One of the primary advantages of using a crock pot to cook cube steak is the convenience it offers. With this method, you can prepare a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply place the ingredients in the crock pot, turn it on, and let the slow cooking process do the work for you.
2. Tenderization
The slow cooking process in a crock pot is excellent for tenderizing cube steak. The low and steady heat allows the meat to break down and become incredibly tender, making it perfect for sandwiches, salads, or even as a main dish.
3. Flavor Development
Crock pot cooking allows the flavors of the cube steak to develop over time. The slow cooking process allows the seasonings and other ingredients to infuse the meat, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.
Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipes
1. Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff
Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff
This classic dish is a delightful combination of tender cube steak, sour cream, mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cube steak
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1/2 cup onion, chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
2. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In the crock pot, combine the cube steak, mushrooms, and onions.
5. Pour the creamy sauce over the top.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
7. Before serving, stir in the sour cream and heat through.
2. Crock Pot Cube Steak Sandwiches
Crock Pot Cube Steak Sandwiches
These sandwiches are a fantastic way to enjoy cube steak. The slow cooking process ensures that the meat is tender and juicy, making it perfect for sandwiches. Here’s the recipe:
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cube steak
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup onion, chopped
– 1/4 cup garlic, minced
– 6 slices of bread
– 6 slices of cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine the barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, onion, and garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
2. In the crock pot, combine the cube steak and the sauce.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the steak from the sauce and slice it into thin strips.
5. Toast the bread and place the cheese on top (if desired).
6. Spread the sauce on the bread and top with the sliced steak.
3. Crock Pot Cube Steak and Potatoes
Crock Pot Cube Steak and Potatoes
This hearty dish combines cube steak with potatoes, carrots, and a savory gravy. It’s a perfect one-pot meal that’s sure to satisfy your hunger. Here’s the recipe:
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cube steak
– 1 lb baby red potatoes, halved
– 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup onion, chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
2. Gradually add the beef broth and water, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In the crock pot, combine the cube steak, potatoes, and carrots.
5. Pour the creamy sauce over the top.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
7. Remove the steak from the sauce and slice it into thin strips.
8. Serve the steak over the potatoes and carrots, topped with the gravy.
Conclusion
Cooking cube steak in a crock pot is a convenient and delicious way to prepare a tender and juicy dish. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that can be enjoyed in various recipes. Whether you’re making cube steak sandwiches, beef stroganoff, or cube steak and potatoes, the crock pot is a versatile tool that can help you create a delightful meal. So, the next time you have some cube steak on hand, don’t hesitate to try one of these recipes and enjoy the benefits of crock pot cooking.
