Slow cooker cube steak, sometimes referred to as country-fried steak, is a dish that involves tenderizing cube steak, coating it in seasoned flour, and then pan-frying or baking it. The resulting dish is often served with gravy and mashed potatoes.
Slow cooker cube steak is a popular dish because it is relatively easy to make and can be cooked in a variety of ways. It is also a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. The most common sides for slow cooker cube steak are mashed potatoes, green beans, and corn.
There are many different ways to make slow cooker cube steak. Some recipes call for marinating the steak in buttermilk or beer before cooking. Others call for dredging the steak in flour before pan-frying. Still others call for baking the steak in the oven. No matter which method you choose, you are sure to end up with a delicious and satisfying meal.
Slow Cooker Cube Steak
Slow cooker cube steak is a dish that combines the convenience of a slow cooker with the flavor of a classic Southern dish. The key aspects of this dish are:
- Flavorful: The slow cooking process allows the flavors of the steak, seasonings, and gravy to meld together, resulting in a rich and delicious dish.
- Tender: The slow cooking process also tenderizes the steak, making it fall-apart tender.
- Versatile: Slow cooker cube steak can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or green beans.
- Budget-friendly: Cube steak is a relatively inexpensive cut of meat, making this dish a great value.
- Easy to make: Simply brown the steak, add it to the slow cooker with your favorite seasonings and gravy, and cook on low for several hours.
- Comforting: Slow cooker cube steak is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter night.
- Versatile: Can be cooked in a variety of ways, including in the oven or on the stovetop.
- Delicious: The combination of tender steak, flavorful gravy, and your favorite sides makes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
In conclusion, slow cooker cube steak is a flavorful, tender, versatile, and budget-friendly dish that is easy to make and perfect for a cold winter night. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, you are sure to enjoy this classic Southern dish.
Flavorful
The slow cooking process is essential to the flavor of slow cooker cube steak. The low heat allows the flavors of the steak, seasonings, and gravy to meld together, resulting in a rich and delicious dish. This is in contrast to other cooking methods, such as grilling or pan-frying, which can cook the steak quickly but do not allow the flavors to develop as fully.
The slow cooking process also tenderizes the steak, making it fall-apart tender. This makes slow cooker cube steak a great choice for those who do not like tough or chewy meat.
In addition, the slow cooking process allows the gravy to thicken and develop a rich flavor. This gravy is the perfect complement to the tender steak and can be spooned over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Overall, the slow cooking process is essential to the flavor of slow cooker cube steak. This process allows the flavors of the steak, seasonings, and gravy to meld together, resulting in a rich and delicious dish.
Tender
Slow cooking is a method of cooking that uses low heat over a long period of time. This method is often used for tough cuts of meat, as it helps to break down the connective tissue and make the meat more tender. Cube steak is a type of beef that is cut into thin slices and then pounded with a meat mallet to tenderize it. Slow cooking cube steak further tenderizes the meat, making it fall-apart tender.
- Collagen breakdown: The slow cooking process breaks down the collagen in the meat, which is a tough protein that can make meat chewy. This breakdown results in meat that is more tender and easier to eat.
- Moisture retention: Slow cooking also helps to retain moisture in the meat, which prevents it from becoming dry and tough. This is especially important for lean cuts of meat, such as cube steak.
- Flavor development: The low heat of the slow cooker allows the flavors of the meat and seasonings to develop and meld together, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Convenience: Slow cooking is a convenient way to cook meat, as it requires minimal effort and can be done while you are away from home. Simply add the meat and seasonings to the slow cooker, turn it on, and let it cook for several hours.
Overall, the slow cooking process is an excellent way to tenderize cube steak and create a delicious and flavorful dish. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, you are sure to enjoy this classic Southern dish.
Versatile
One of the key benefits of slow cooker cube steak is its versatility. This dish can be served with a variety of sides, making it a great option for any occasion. Some popular side dishes for slow cooker cube steak include mashed potatoes, rice, green beans, corn, and macaroni and cheese.
The versatility of slow cooker cube steak is due to its simple flavor profile. The beef is typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, which allows it to pair well with a variety of sides. In addition, the slow cooking process tenderizes the beef, making it a great option for those who do not like tough or chewy meat.
Here are some examples of how slow cooker cube steak can be served with a variety of sides:
- For a classic Southern meal, serve slow cooker cube steak with mashed potatoes, green beans, and corn.
- For a more elegant meal, serve slow cooker cube steak with rice pilaf and roasted asparagus.
- For a quick and easy meal, serve slow cooker cube steak with instant mashed potatoes and canned green beans.
No matter what side dishes you choose, slow cooker cube steak is sure to be a hit. This versatile dish is easy to make, delicious, and can be tailored to your own personal preferences.
In conclusion, the versatility of slow cooker cube steak is one of its key benefits. This dish can be served with a variety of sides, making it a great option for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a classic Southern meal or a more elegant dish, slow cooker cube steak is sure to please.
Budget-friendly
Slow cooker cube steak is a budget-friendly meal because cube steak is a relatively inexpensive cut of meat. This makes it a great option for those who are on a tight budget or who are looking for a way to save money on their grocery bill.
- Affordability: Cube steak is one of the most affordable cuts of beef available. This is because it is a less desirable cut of meat, as it can be tough and chewy if not cooked properly. However, slow cooking helps to tenderize the meat, making it a great option for those who are on a budget.
- Value: Slow cooker cube steak is a great value for the money. This is because it is a hearty and filling meal that can be served with a variety of sides. In addition, the slow cooking process helps to develop the flavor of the meat, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
- Versatility: Slow cooker cube steak is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. This makes it a great option for those who are looking for a meal that can be tailored to their own personal preferences. For example, slow cooker cube steak can be served with mashed potatoes, rice, green beans, or corn.
In conclusion, slow cooker cube steak is a budget-friendly and versatile meal that is perfect for those who are on a tight budget or who are looking for a way to save money on their grocery bill. This dish is easy to make and can be tailored to your own personal preferences.
Easy to make
Slow cooker cube steak is a dish that is known for its ease of preparation. This is due in large part to the fact that the slow cooker does most of the work. Simply brown the steak, add it to the slow cooker with your favorite seasonings and gravy, and cook on low for several hours. This hands-off approach makes slow cooker cube steak a great option for busy weeknights or for those who are new to cooking.
- Minimal effort: One of the biggest benefits of slow cooker cube steak is that it requires minimal effort to prepare. Simply brown the steak, add it to the slow cooker, and let it cook for several hours. This makes it a great option for those who are short on time or who do not enjoy spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
- Versatile: Slow cooker cube steak is also a versatile dish that can be tailored to your own personal preferences. For example, you can use your favorite type of steak, seasonings, and gravy. You can also add other ingredients to the slow cooker, such as vegetables or potatoes.
- Budget-friendly: Slow cooker cube steak is a budget-friendly meal that is perfect for those who are on a tight budget. This is because cube steak is a relatively inexpensive cut of meat. In addition, the slow cooking process helps to tenderize the meat, making it a great option for those who do not like tough or chewy meat.
In conclusion, slow cooker cube steak is a dish that is easy to make, versatile, and budget-friendly. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or for those who are new to cooking. So next time you are looking for a delicious and easy meal, give slow cooker cube steak a try.
Comforting
Slow cooker cube steak is a comforting dish because it is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. The slow cooking process tenderizes the steak and allows the flavors of the meat, seasonings, and gravy to meld together, resulting in a rich and delicious dish. This dish is perfect for a cold winter night because it is warm and filling, and it can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or green beans.
The comfort factor of slow cooker cube steak is due to several factors. First, the slow cooking process creates a tender and juicy steak that is easy to eat. Second, the gravy that is created during the cooking process is rich and flavorful, and it helps to keep the steak moist. Third, the combination of the steak and gravy is hearty and filling, making it a perfect meal for a cold winter night.
Slow cooker cube steak is also a relatively inexpensive dish to make, which makes it a great option for families on a budget. In addition, the slow cooking process is very forgiving, so even novice cooks can make a delicious meal.Overall, slow cooker cube steak is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a cold winter night. It is easy to make, affordable, and can be tailored to your own personal preferences. So next time you are looking for a warm and filling meal, give slow cooker cube steak a try.
Versatile
Slow cooker cube steak is a versatile dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or for those who want to experiment with different cooking methods.
- In the oven: Slow cooker cube steak can be cooked in the oven at a low temperature for several hours. This method results in a tender and flavorful steak that is perfect for serving with mashed potatoes or rice.
- On the stovetop: Slow cooker cube steak can also be cooked on the stovetop over medium heat. This method is faster than cooking in the oven, but it is important to watch the steak carefully so that it does not overcook.
- In the slow cooker: Of course, slow cooker cube steak can also be cooked in the slow cooker. This is the most hands-off method, and it results in a tender and juicy steak that is perfect for a cold winter night.
- Other methods: Slow cooker cube steak can also be cooked in other ways, such as on the grill or in a pressure cooker. These methods can result in different flavors and textures, so experiment to find your favorite way to cook this dish.
The versatility of slow cooker cube steak is one of its key benefits. This dish can be tailored to your own personal preferences and cooking style, making it a great option for any occasion.
Delicious
The deliciousness of slow cooker cube steak is due to several factors. First, the slow cooking process tenderizes the steak, making it juicy and flavorful. Second, the gravy that is created during the cooking process is rich and flavorful, and it helps to keep the steak moist. Third, the combination of the steak and gravy is hearty and filling, making it a satisfying meal.
The combination of tender steak, flavorful gravy, and your favorite sides makes for a delicious and satisfying meal. This is because the steak is cooked slowly and evenly, which allows the flavors of the meat, seasonings, and gravy to meld together. The gravy also helps to keep the steak moist and juicy. In addition, the sides that you choose to serve with the steak can complement the flavors of the meat and gravy, creating a well-rounded meal.
For example, mashed potatoes are a classic side dish for cube steak because they are creamy and flavorful, and they help to soak up the gravy. Green beans are another popular side dish because they are crisp and refreshing, and they add a pop of color to the plate. Cornbread is also a good choice because it is sweet and savory, and it helps to balance out the richness of the steak and gravy.
Overall, the combination of tender steak, flavorful gravy, and your favorite sides makes for a delicious and satisfying meal. This is why slow cooker cube steak is such a popular dish. It is easy to make, affordable, and can be tailored to your own personal preferences.
FAQs on Slow Cooker Cube Steak
Slow cooker cube steak is a popular dish that is known for its ease of preparation and delicious flavor. However, there are some common questions that people have about this dish, such as how to cook it, what to serve it with, and how to store it. This FAQ section will answer these questions and provide additional information about slow cooker cube steak.
Question 1: What is the best way to cook slow cooker cube steak?
Answer: The best way to cook slow cooker cube steak is to first brown the steak in a skillet over medium heat. This will help to seal in the flavor and prevent the steak from drying out during the cooking process. Once the steak is browned, add it to the slow cooker along with your favorite seasonings and gravy. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the steak is tender and juicy.
Question 2: What are some good sides to serve with slow cooker cube steak?
Answer: Slow cooker cube steak can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, green beans, corn, or mac and cheese. The best sides to serve with this dish are those that are hearty and flavorful, and that can soak up the delicious gravy.
Question 3: How do I store leftover slow cooker cube steak?
Answer: Leftover slow cooker cube steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the steak, simply place it in the microwave or oven until it is warmed through.
Question 4: Can I use other cuts of meat in this recipe?
Answer: Yes, you can use other cuts of meat in this recipe, such as round steak, rump roast, or chuck roast. However, it is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut of meat that you use.
Question 5: What is the best way to thicken the gravy?
Answer: There are several ways to thicken the gravy in this recipe. One way is to add a cornstarch slurry, which is a mixture of equal parts cornstarch and water. Another way is to add a roux, which is a mixture of equal parts flour and butter. Simply whisk either of these mixtures into the gravy and cook until thickened.
Question 6: Can I cook this dish in the oven instead of the slow cooker?
Answer: Yes, you can cook this dish in the oven instead of the slow cooker. To do this, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the steak in a baking dish and cook for 1 hour, or until the steak is tender and juicy.
These are just a few of the most common questions that people have about slow cooker cube steak. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
In conclusion, slow cooker cube steak is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. This FAQ section has provided answers to some of the most common questions about this dish, and we hope that it has been helpful. So next time you are looking for a hearty and flavorful meal, give slow cooker cube steak a try.
Transition to the next article section:
In the next section, we will provide some tips on how to make the perfect slow cooker cube steak. We will also share some of our favorite recipes for this dish.
Tips for Making the Perfect Slow Cooker Cube Steak
Slow cooker cube steak is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. However, there are a few tips that you can follow to make sure that your cube steak turns out perfectly every time.
Tip 1: Choose the right cut of meat.
The best cut of meat for slow cooker cube steak is a top round steak. This cut of meat is relatively lean and has a good amount of flavor. However, you can also use other cuts of meat, such as rump roast or chuck roast. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut of meat that you use.
Tip 2: Brown the steak before cooking.
Browning the steak before cooking helps to seal in the flavor and prevent the steak from drying out during the cooking process. To brown the steak, simply heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the steak. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the steak is browned on all sides.
Tip 3: Use a flavorful gravy.
The gravy is an important part of slow cooker cube steak. It adds flavor and moisture to the dish. There are many different types of gravy that you can use, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite. Some popular options include brown gravy, mushroom gravy, and onion gravy.
Tip 4: Cook the steak on low.
Slow cooking is the best way to tenderize cube steak. Cooking the steak on low for 6-8 hours will allow the meat to become tender and juicy. However, you can also cook the steak on high for 3-4 hours if you are short on time.
Tip 5: Serve with your favorite sides.
Slow cooker cube steak can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, green beans, corn, or mac and cheese. The best sides to serve with this dish are those that are hearty and flavorful, and that can soak up the delicious gravy.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
By following these tips, you can make sure that your slow cooker cube steak turns out perfectly every time. This dish is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
In conclusion, slow cooker cube steak is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter night. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own personal preferences. So next time you are looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal, give slow cooker cube steak a try.
Conclusion
Slow cooker cube steak is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is a hearty and flavorful meal that can be tailored to your own personal preferences. Whether you are looking for a classic Southern meal or a more elegant dish, slow cooker cube steak is sure to please.
In this article, we have explored the many different aspects of slow cooker cube steak, including its flavor, tenderness, versatility, and ease of preparation. We have also provided some tips on how to make the perfect slow cooker cube steak. We hope that this article has been informative and helpful.
So next time you are looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal, give slow cooker cube steak a try. You won’t be disappointed.
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