How to Cook Round Steak: Expert Tips and Techniques

Understanding Round Steak

Round steak is a lean cut of beef that comes from the beef round primal. It is a protein-rich meat that is low in calories and fat. As a result, it is a popular choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

When it comes to cooking round steak, it is important to understand that it is a lean cut of meat. This means that it can be tough and dry if not cooked properly. However, with the right cooking techniques, round steak can be tender and flavorful.

To make the most of round steak, it is important to choose a high-quality cut that is lean and well-trimmed. This will help ensure that the meat is tender and flavorful. When cooking round steak, it is important to use a cooking method that will help retain the moisture in the meat, such as braising or slow cooking.

Here are a few key things to keep in mind when cooking round steak:

• Round steak is a lean cut of beef that is low in calories and fat.
• To make the most of round steak, choose a high-quality cut that is lean and well-trimmed.
• When cooking round steak, use a cooking method that will help retain the moisture in the meat, such as braising or slow cooking.

By following these tips, you can cook round steak that is tender, flavorful, and healthy.

Identifying Types of Round Steak

As a cook, it’s important to know the different types of round steak available in the market. Understanding the different types and their characteristics can help you choose the right cut for your recipe. Here are the most common types of round steak:

Top Round Steak

Top round steak is a lean cut of meat that comes from the upper part of the round. It’s a versatile cut that can be cooked using different methods, including roasting, grilling, and broiling. Top round steak is also commonly used for making beef jerky.

Bottom Round Steak

Bottom round steak is a tougher cut of meat that comes from the lower part of the round. It’s a budget-friendly cut that can be cooked using slow-cooking methods, such as braising and stewing. Bottom round steak is also commonly used for making pot roast.

Eye of Round Steak

Eye of round steak is a lean cut of meat that comes from the center of the round. It’s a tender cut that can be cooked using different methods, including roasting, grilling, and broiling. Eye of round steak is also commonly used for making roast beef.

Flank Steak

Flank steak is a flavorful cut of meat that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It’s a lean cut that can be cooked using different methods, including grilling, broiling, and stir-frying. Flank steak is also commonly used for making fajitas.

Sirloin Tip Steak

Sirloin tip steak is a lean cut of meat that comes from the sirloin primal cut. It’s a versatile cut that can be cooked using different methods, including grilling, broiling, and stir-frying. Sirloin tip steak is also commonly used for making beef stroganoff.

Cube Steak

Cube steak is a tenderized cut of meat that comes from the round. It’s a budget-friendly cut that can be cooked using different methods, including frying and braising. Cube steak is also commonly used for making chicken-fried steak.

Knowing the different types of round steak and their characteristics can help you choose the right cut for your recipe. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or braising, there’s a round steak cut that’s perfect for your dish.

Preparation Before Cooking

Before cooking round steak, there are a few things that need to be done to ensure that the meat is tender and flavorful.

Tenderizing

Round steak is a tough cut of meat, so it’s important to tenderize it before cooking. There are a few ways to do this:

• Pound the meat with a meat mallet to break down the fibers and make it more tender.
• Use a marinade that contains vinegar, soy sauce, or tomato sauce to help break down the meat.
• Cook the meat low and slow in a beef broth to help tenderize it.

Seasoning

To add flavor to the round steak, it’s important to season it properly. Here are a few options:

• Salt and pepper are simple seasonings that work well with beef.
• Black pepper, parsley, and paprika can be used to create a dry rub that adds flavor to the meat.
• Sesame seeds can be added to the dry rub for a nutty flavor.

Conclusion

By tenderizing and seasoning the round steak before cooking, you can ensure that it will be flavorful and tender. Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to find the combination that you like best.

Cooking Methods

Grilling

Grilling is a great way to cook round steak, especially if you love that smoky flavor. To grill round steak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Oven Baking

Oven baking is a simple and easy way to cook round steak. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Season the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning. Place the steak on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until desired doneness. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Skillet Searing

Skillet searing is a quick way to cook round steak and get a nice crust on the outside. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning. Add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet and add the steak. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is a great way to cook round steak if you want it to be tender and juicy. Season the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning. Place the steak in a slow cooker with your favorite vegetables and beef broth. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or until the steak is tender. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Braising

Braising is a cooking method that involves cooking the steak in liquid. Season the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning. Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil to the Dutch oven and add the steak. Brown the steak on both sides. Add your favorite vegetables and beef broth to the Dutch oven. Cover and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours or until the steak is tender. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Sautéing

Sautéing is a quick way to cook round steak. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning. Add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet and add the steak. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Broiling

Broiling is a great way to cook round steak if you want a nice crust on the outside. Preheat your broiler on high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning. Place the steak on a broiler pan and broil for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Specific Round Steak Recipes

I love cooking round steak because it is a versatile cut that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some specific recipes that I have enjoyed making with round steak:

Swiss Steak

Swiss steak is a classic dish that is easy to make and always delicious. Here is a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds round steak
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cut round steak into serving-sized pieces.
3. Mix flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a shallow dish.
4. Dredge steak in flour mixture.
5. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Brown steak on both sides.
7. Transfer steak to a baking dish.
8. Add onions and tomatoes to skillet.
9. Cook until onions are translucent.
10. Pour tomato mixture over steak.
11. Cover baking dish with foil.
12. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

Barbarian Beef

Barbarian beef is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. Here is a recipe that I enjoy:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds round steak
• 2 onions, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cut round steak into serving-sized pieces.
3. Mix flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
4. Dredge steak in flour mixture.
5. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Brown steak on both sides.
7. Transfer steak to a baking dish.
8. Add onions and garlic to skillet.
9. Cook until onions are translucent.
10. Add tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary to skillet.
11. Bring to a boil.
12. Pour tomato mixture over steak.
13. Cover baking dish with foil.
14. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

Round Steak and Gravy

Round steak and gravy is a classic comfort food that is easy to make and always satisfying. Here is a recipe that I enjoy:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds round steak
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cut round steak into serving-sized pieces.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Brown steak on both sides.
4. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
5. Add onions to skillet.
6. Cook until onions are translucent.
7. Add flour to skillet.
8. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
9. Add beef broth to skillet.
10. Bring to a boil.
11. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
12. Return steak to skillet.
13. Cover and simmer for 1 hour.

Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken fried steak is a Southern classic that is always a crowd-pleaser. Here is a recipe that I enjoy:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds round steak
• 2 cups flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Cut round steak into serving-sized pieces.
2. Mix flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a shallow dish.
3. Beat eggs and milk together in another shallow dish.
4. Dredge steak in flour mixture.
5. Dip steak in egg mixture.
6. Dredge steak in flour mixture again.
7. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
8. Fry steak for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten is a German dish that is made by marinating beef in a mixture of vinegar, spices, and red wine. Here is a recipe that I enjoy:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds round steak
• 2 onions, chopped
• 2 cups red wine

Cooking Techniques

To cook round steak, I have found that there are a few techniques that work well. Here are some tips that I have found to be helpful:

• Sear the meat: Before cooking, I like to sear the round steak on both sides. This helps to lock in the juices and adds flavor to the meat. To do this, I heat up a cast iron skillet with some vegetable oil and sear the steak for a few minutes on each side.

• Slow braise: Another technique that works well for round steak is slow braising. This involves cooking the meat in liquid over low heat for several hours. I like to use a baking dish and cover the steak with a mixture of vegetables, herbs, and liquid (such as wine or beef broth). I then cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for several hours until the meat is tender.

• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that the steak is cooked to the right temperature, I like to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the steak should be 145°F for medium rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well done.

• Rest the meat: After cooking, it is important to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures that the meat is tender and juicy.

• Add flavor: To add flavor to the steak, I like to use a variety of ingredients such as garlic, onion, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs. I also like to serve the steak with mashed potatoes and a side of vegetables.

• Make a sauce: If desired, I like to make a sauce to serve with the steak. This can be done by using ingredients such as butter, flour, brown gravy mix, and sour cream. I also like to add in some green bell pepper and tomatoes for added flavor.

Alternative Uses of Round Steak

When it comes to round steak, many people only think of it as a cut to be cooked as a steak. However, there are several alternative uses for round steak that can be just as delicious and versatile. Here are some ideas:

• Ground Beef: If you have a meat grinder or a food processor, you can easily turn round steak into ground beef. Ground beef can be used in a variety of recipes, from burgers to meatloaf to spaghetti sauce. Just be sure to use a lean cut of round steak to avoid excess fat in your ground beef.

• Sandwiches: Thinly sliced round steak can make a delicious sandwich filling. Try it on a French roll with sautéed onions and peppers for a classic Philly cheesesteak. Or, slice it thin and pile it high on a baguette with arugula, mustard, and horseradish cream for a gourmet sandwich.

• Deli Meat: Sliced thin, round steak can be a great addition to a meat and cheese platter. Serve it alongside other deli meats like ham and turkey, or use it to make a hearty sandwich.

• Asian Beef: Round steak can be used in a variety of Asian-inspired dishes. Try slicing it thin and stir-frying it with snow peas, carrots, and broccoli for a quick and healthy meal. Or, marinate it in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic and grill it for a flavorful main dish.

• Snow Peas: Speaking of snow peas, they make a great accompaniment to round steak. Try sautéing them with garlic and ginger for a quick and easy side dish. Or, toss them with some sesame oil and soy sauce for a delicious Asian-inspired salad.

In conclusion, round steak can be used in a variety of ways beyond just cooking it as a steak. With a little creativity, you can turn this versatile cut of meat into a delicious and satisfying meal.

Additional Tips and Tricks

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

• Cooking Methods: Round steak can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, broiling, pan-frying, and slow-cooking. Experiment with different methods to find the one that works best for you.

• Texture: Round steak can be tough and chewy if not cooked properly. To avoid this, consider marinating the steak before cooking or using a meat tenderizer.

• Spices: Round steak can be seasoned with a variety of spices to enhance its flavor. Consider using garlic, onion, paprika, or cumin to add some extra flavor.

• Fried: Pan-frying round steak can be a quick and easy way to prepare it. Coat the steak in flour or breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior.

• Medium-rare: When cooking round steak, aim for a medium-rare internal temperature of 135-145°F. This will ensure that the steak is cooked through but still juicy and tender.

• Charcoal: Grilling round steak over charcoal can add a smoky flavor and enhance its overall taste.

• Budget-friendly: Round steak is an affordable cut of meat that can be a great option for those on a budget.

• Family-friendly: Round steak is a versatile cut of meat that can be used in a variety of family-friendly recipes, such as stews, casseroles, and stir-fries.

• Garlicky: Adding garlic to round steak can give it a delicious, savory flavor that pairs well with many different dishes.

• Acidic Pepper Sauce: Consider serving round steak with an acidic pepper sauce, such as chimichurri or salsa verde, to add some extra flavor and zest.

Nutritional Information

As someone who loves to cook, I always like to know the nutritional information of the meals I prepare. Round steak is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, as well as maintaining a healthy immune system. Here are some key nutritional facts about round steak:

• A 3-ounce serving of round steak contains approximately 160 calories.
• It is a lean cut of beef, with only 5 grams of fat per serving.
• Round steak is an excellent source of protein, with around 24 grams per serving.
• It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

When it comes to cuts of beef, round steak is a great choice for those who are looking for a leaner option. It is lower in fat than other cuts, such as ribeye or sirloin, which can be higher in calories and saturated fat.

Overall, round steak is a nutritious and delicious option for any meal. By incorporating it into your diet, you can enjoy all of the health benefits that come with this lean cut of beef.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to cooking round steak, there are a few common questions that many people have. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:

How do I cook round steak on the stove?

Cooking round steak on the stove is a quick and easy way to prepare this cut of meat. Here are the steps:

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet.
3. Season your round steak with salt and pepper, or your favorite seasoning blend.
4. Once the skillet is hot, add the round steak to the skillet.
5. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

How do I cook round steak in a cast iron skillet?

Cooking round steak in a cast iron skillet is a great way to get a delicious sear on the meat. Here are the steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat.
3. Season your round steak with salt and pepper, or your favorite seasoning blend.
4. Once the skillet is hot, add the round steak to the skillet.
5. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook the steak for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

How many calories are in round steak?

The number of calories in round steak will depend on the cut of meat and how it is prepared. Here are some rough estimates:

• 3 ounces of grilled top round steak: 154 calories
• 3 ounces of pan-fried round steak: 162 calories
• 3 ounces of broiled round steak: 158 calories

Keep in mind that adding oil or other ingredients to your round steak will increase the calorie count.

Share this post, it will help me a lot!