How to Cook Round Steak on the Stove: A Simple Guide

Table of Contents

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

When it comes to cooking round steak on the stove, choosing the right cut of meat is key. Round steak is a lean cut of beef that comes from the hindquarters of the cow. It’s a versatile cut that can be cooked in a variety of ways, but it’s important to choose the right cut for your recipe.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a round steak:

Quality: Look for a round steak that is fresh and of good quality. Choose a cut that is bright red in color and has minimal marbling.
Type of Round Steak: There are different types of round steak, including top round, bottom round, and eye of round. Each cut has its own unique characteristics and is best suited for different cooking methods.
Lean vs. Fat: Round steak is a lean cut of meat, which means it has less fat than other cuts like NY strip. If you prefer a leaner cut of meat, round steak is a great choice.
Organic and Grass Fed: If you’re concerned about the quality of your meat, look for organic or grass-fed beef. These options are often considered to be higher quality and more sustainable.

Overall, choosing the right cut of meat is an important step in cooking round steak on the stove. Take the time to consider your options and choose a cut that is best suited for your recipe.

Preparing the Round Steak

To ensure that your round steak is tender and flavorful, it’s important to properly prepare it before cooking. Here are some steps that I follow to prepare round steak for stovetop cooking:

Season the steak: Before cooking, I like to season the steak generously with salt and pepper. This helps to enhance the flavor of the meat and make it more delicious.
Marinate the steak: If you have time, you can also marinate the steak to make it more tender. I like to use a simple marinade made with garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. You can also use a meat tenderizer to help break down the fibers of the meat and make it more tender.
Let the steak come to room temperature: Before cooking, I like to let the steak come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps to ensure that the steak cooks evenly and doesn’t become tough.
Look for marbling: When selecting round steak, look for pieces with marbling (fat running through the meat). This can help to keep the meat moist and tender during cooking.
Use kosher salt: When seasoning the steak, I like to use kosher salt instead of regular table salt. Kosher salt has larger crystals, which can help to distribute the salt more evenly and create a better flavor.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your round steak is properly prepared and ready for stovetop cooking.

Selecting the Right Cookware

When it comes to cooking round steak on the stove, selecting the right cookware is crucial to achieving the best results. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Pan or Skillet: A pan or skillet is the most common cookware used for cooking round steak on the stove. Make sure to choose a pan that is large enough to fit the steak without overcrowding it.
Stove: Round steak is best cooked on a stove over medium-high heat. This allows for a nice sear on the outside while cooking the inside to the desired doneness.
Oven: While it is possible to cook round steak in the oven, it is not recommended as it can result in a dry and overcooked steak.
Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet is a great option for cooking round steak as it retains heat well and can be used on both the stove and in the oven.
Frying Pan: A frying pan can also be used for cooking round steak, but make sure to choose one with a thick bottom to prevent hot spots and ensure even cooking.
Cast-Iron: Cast-iron cookware is durable and versatile, making it a great option for cooking round steak. However, it may require a bit more maintenance than other types of cookware.

Overall, when selecting cookware for cooking round steak on the stove, choose a pan or skillet that is large enough to fit the steak without overcrowding it, and make sure to use a cooking method that allows for a nice sear on the outside while cooking the inside to the desired doneness.

Cooking Round Steak on the Stove

To cook a delicious round steak on the stove, I start by preheating a skillet over medium-high heat. I add a tablespoon of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt.

Next, I season the round steak with salt, black pepper, and any other herbs or spices that I prefer. I use tongs to place the steak in the skillet and sear it on both sides for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Once the steak is seared, I add some chopped onion, thyme, and beef broth to the skillet. I cover the skillet with a lid and let the steak simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.

If I want to add more flavor to the steak, I sometimes add soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. I also like to add some vegetables like sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the skillet.

When the steak is cooked to my desired doneness, I remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain. I serve the steak with the sauce from the skillet and any other sides that I prefer.

Overall, pan-frying or pan-searing round steak on the stove is a simple and tasty cooking method that can be customized with different ingredients and flavors.

Adding Flavors and Side Dishes

When cooking round steak on the stove, you can add various flavors and side dishes to enhance the taste of the dish. Here are some options that you can consider:

Vegetables: You can add vegetables like carrots and potatoes to the dish to make it more nutritious and flavorful. Cut them into small pieces and add them to the pan when the steak is almost done. Cook them until they are tender and serve them with the steak.
Wine: You can use red wine to add a rich and robust flavor to the dish. Add a cup of red wine to the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes. The wine will reduce and create a delicious sauce that you can serve with the steak.
Spices: You can use a variety of spices to add flavor to the dish. Some good options include fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the spices onto the steak before cooking or add them to the pan while cooking.
Broth: You can use beef broth to add more depth and richness to the dish. Add a cup of beef broth to the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes. The broth will reduce and create a delicious sauce that you can serve with the steak.
Tomato sauce: You can use tomato sauce to add a tangy flavor to the dish. Add a cup of tomato sauce to the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes. The tomato sauce will thicken and create a delicious sauce that you can serve with the steak.
Maple syrup and apple cider vinegar: You can use maple syrup and apple cider vinegar to create a sweet and tangy glaze for the steak. Mix equal parts of maple syrup and apple cider vinegar and brush it onto the steak before cooking.
Beer: You can use beer to add a unique flavor to the dish. Add a cup of beer to the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes. The beer will reduce and create a delicious sauce that you can serve with the steak.

By adding these flavors and side dishes, you can take your round steak dish to the next level. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect flavor for you.

Understanding Steak Doneness

When it comes to cooking round steak on the stove, understanding steak doneness is essential. Doneness refers to how well-cooked the steak is, and it affects the taste, texture, and juiciness of the meat. Here are the different levels of doneness and what they mean:

Rare: The steak is cooked on the outside but still red and cool on the inside. The center of the steak will be very soft and juicy.
Medium-rare: The steak is cooked on the outside but still pink and warm on the inside. The center of the steak will be slightly firm and juicy.
Medium: The steak is cooked through but still slightly pink in the center. The center of the steak will be firm and slightly less juicy.
Well-done: The steak is cooked through and there is no pinkness in the center. The center of the steak will be firm and dry.

To determine the doneness of your steak, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the steak should be:

Rare: 125°F (52°C)
Medium-rare: 135°F (57°C)
Medium: 145°F (63°C)
Well-done: 160°F (71°C)

However, if you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can use the touch method. Press the center of the steak with your finger and compare the resistance to the following:

Rare: Soft and squishy, like the fleshy part of your palm under your thumb when you touch your thumb to your pinky.
Medium-rare: Slightly firmer, like the fleshy part of your palm under your thumb when you touch your thumb to your ring finger.
Medium: Firm, like the fleshy part of your palm under your thumb when you touch your thumb to your middle finger.
Well-done: Very firm, like the fleshy part of your palm under your thumb when you touch your thumb to your index finger.

Remember, the doneness of your steak is a matter of personal preference. However, it’s important to keep in mind that overcooking a steak can result in a dry and tough piece of meat.

Resting and Serving the Steak

Once the steak is cooked, it’s important to let it rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. I recommend letting the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into it.

While the steak is resting, it’s a good time to prepare any sides or sauces you plan to serve with it. I like to serve my round steak with a side of roasted vegetables and a simple garlic butter sauce.

When it’s time to serve the steak, I recommend slicing it against the grain. This will help to break up any tough muscle fibers and make the meat more tender. Round steak is a great source of protein and iron, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Overall, resting the steak is an important step in the cooking process that should not be skipped. It allows the meat to reach its full potential and ensures a delicious and enjoyable meal.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Round steak is a great source of protein and is low in fat, making it a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Here are some key nutritional facts about round steak:

A 3-ounce serving of cooked round steak contains approximately 170 calories, 25 grams of protein, and 7 grams of fat.
Round steak is a good source of iron, providing about 15% of the recommended daily value per serving.
Round steak is also a good source of vitamin B12, which is important for maintaining healthy nerve and blood cells.

When cooking round steak, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and cooking methods to ensure that the nutritional benefits are not negated by excess calories or unhealthy preparation.

Overall, round steak is a nutritious and delicious protein source that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy and balanced diet.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you don’t want to cook your round steak on the stove, there are several alternative cooking methods that you can try. Here are some options to consider:

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place your seasoned round steak in a baking dish and bake it for 30-40 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Braising: Brown your round steak in a pan on the stove, then transfer it to a pot with some liquid (like broth or wine). Cover and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours until tender.
Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush your round steak with oil and seasonings, then grill it for 4-5 minutes per side or until it’s cooked to your liking.
Slow cooking: Place your seasoned round steak in a slow cooker with some vegetables and liquid (like broth or tomato sauce). Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours until it’s tender and juicy.

These alternative cooking methods can give your round steak a different texture and flavor. Experiment with different techniques to find your favorite way to cook this delicious cut of meat.

Tips and Tricks for Cooking Round Steak

When it comes to cooking round steak on the stove, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you achieve the best results. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Thickness Matters: Round steak can vary in thickness, and this can affect cooking time and temperature. Thicker cuts may need to be cooked at a lower temperature for longer to ensure they cook evenly.
Filet Mignon: If you’re looking for a tender cut of meat, filet mignon is a good choice. It’s a pricier option, but it’s worth it if you want a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce can add flavor to your round steak. You can marinate the meat in Worcestershire sauce before cooking, or add it to the pan while cooking.
Tough Cut: Round steak is a tougher cut of meat, so it’s important to cook it correctly to avoid a chewy texture. Slow cooking methods like braising or stewing can help tenderize the meat.
Saturated Fat: Round steak is a lean cut of meat, which means it has less saturated fat than other cuts. This can make it a healthier option, but it also means you need to be careful not to overcook it, or it may become dry.
Stock: Adding stock to the pan while cooking can help keep the meat moist and add flavor. You can use beef stock or chicken stock, depending on your preference.
Stew Meat: Round steak can be used as stew meat, and it’s a great choice for hearty stews and soups. Just make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces and cook it low and slow for the best results.
Meat Market: If you’re unsure about what type of round steak to buy, ask your local meat market for advice. They can help you choose the best cut for your needs.

By keeping these tips and tricks in mind, you can cook round steak on the stove like a pro.