Why You’ll Love This Country Style Steak Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, this Hearty Country Style Steak recipe truly stands out.
I love how tender and flavorful the meat turns out, practically melting in your mouth. The rich, savory gravy adds a depth that’s simply irresistible.
It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth to the table and nostalgia to my heart. I can’t help but feel excited when I serve it, knowing everyone will savor each bite.
Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Trust me, you’ll want this recipe in your cooking repertoire!
Ingredients of Country Style Steak
When you think about cooking a comforting meal that warms your soul, the ingredients you choose play a huge role in setting the stage. For this Hearty Country Style Steak recipe, we’re going to gather some classic ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor.
Trust me, once you have everything prepped and ready, the magic will unfold in your kitchen.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:
- 2 lbs beef bottom round steaks, trimmed of excess fat
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or 1/4 cup bacon drippings
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 (8-ounce) packets brown gravy mix
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients for a moment. The beef bottom round steaks are super important because they’re what make this dish hearty and filling.
If you can’t find bottom round, other cuts like chuck or even sirloin can work, but the cooking time might vary a bit. And oh, that flour? It’s not just for dredging; it helps create that lovely golden crust that adds texture.
As for the gravy mix, it saves you time while still delivering that rich flavor we all crave. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as everything simmers away.
You might want to keep some extra chicken broth on hand, just in case you need to adjust the consistency of your gravy. The goal here is to have a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly evening.
How to Make Country Style Steak
Making Country Style Steak is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly day. It’s all about those tender beef slices soaking in rich gravy, giving you that satisfying comfort food experience. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work on this hearty dish.
First, take 2 lbs of beef bottom round steaks and slice them into 1/2-inch thick pieces, cutting with the grain. Don’t forget to sprinkle both sides with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and 1 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper. This seasoning is where the flavor journey begins.
Next, grab a pie pan and pour in 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Dredge each piece of meat in the flour, coating both sides. Now comes the fun part—tenderizing the meat with a needling device until each slice is about 1/4-inch thick. Dredge them in the flour again and set aside. It might feel like you’re in a cooking competition, and trust me, those flour-coated steaks will be worth the effort.
Now, heat up 1/4 cup of vegetable oil (or bacon drippings if you’re feeling a bit indulgent) in a 4 to 5-quart Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers like it’s ready for a dance party, carefully place the steaks in the pot, ensuring not to overcrowd. Let them brown for about 2 minutes on each side until they’re golden and delicious.
After browning all the steaks, whisk together 2 cups of chicken broth, 2 packets of brown gravy mix, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme in a bowl. Pour that luscious mixture into the pot, ensuring all the steaks are submerged. Cover the pot and slide it into an oven preheated to 300 degrees F.
Let it cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, and resist the urge to peek too often. The aroma will be divine, and soon you’ll have a dish that’s tender and falls apart at the mere touch of a fork. Just imagine serving this up alongside mashed potatoes or a side of green beans—pure comfort in every bite. Happy cooking!
Country Style Steak Substitutions & Variations
Exploring substitutions and variations for Country Style Steak can elevate this classic dish to new heights.
For a leaner option, I often swap beef with turkey or chicken cutlets, which still soak up that delicious gravy. If I’m in the mood for something different, I use pork chops instead—they add a unique flavor.
You can also switch up the seasonings; adding smoked paprika or garlic powder gives it a twist. If I want a richer sauce, I use red wine instead of chicken broth.
These tweaks keep the recipe fresh and exciting, while still honoring its hearty roots!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Country Style Steak turns out perfectly, I recommend keeping a few key tips in mind.
First, don’t skip the tenderizing step; it makes a huge difference in texture. Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the steaks to achieve that golden crust.
If you like a richer flavor, consider using bacon drippings instead of vegetable oil. Also, feel free to customize the gravy by adding mushrooms or onions for extra depth.
Finally, be patient while it cooks; low and slow is the key to tender meat. Enjoy your deliciously hearty meal!