Have you ever wondered what the fuss is about Swiss steak? From its name, you would assume it’s from Switzerland, but what exactly is it? Well, we’ve got the answer for you! Swiss steak happens to be a delicious take on the classic steak that we all know and love, but with a secret Swiss twist.
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What is Swiss Steak?
Swiss steak is a version of steak that is tenderized, usually using a meat mallet, and then floured, dredged in eggs, and breaded with crumbs or wheat flour to form a crunchy crust. It is then pan-fried or seared in a skillet and finished in a slow-cooked skillet of gravy or sauce. This process of pan-frying gives the steak a golden-brown, crispy exterior with a juicy, flavorful center. The gravy or sauce generally contains diced onions, celery, carrots, and garlic for flavor.
This delicious dish is said to have originated in Switzerland, although there is no concrete evidence of this. Some people also claim that the name comes from the onions in the sauce, since they were mainly grown in Switzerland.
Nowadays, this dish is popular all over the world, with many adaptations, from variations on the sauce to the spices used. It is often served with mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or other side dishes. So next time you’re looking to cook up something special, why not give Swiss steak a try? With a few simple steps and ingredients, you can make a delicious, juicy steak that’s sure to impress.
How to Cook Swiss Steak
First, make sure that the steak is cut into appropriate-sized pieces and tenderize it with a meat mallet. Then, generously coat the steak with either bread crumbs or wheat flour, and then dip the steak in the egg wash mixture and coat it again.
Next, heat up some oil in a skillet and add the steak. Fry the steak on both sides until it is golden-brown and crispy – don’t forget to be careful not to overcook!
Finally, when the steak is done, add in the diced vegetables and the gravy or sauce and let it simmer for a few more minutes. There you have it! Your Swiss Steak is now ready to serve.
Tips for Cooking Swiss Steak
- Choose the Right Cut of Steak: For the best results, select a cut of steak that is not too thick and has plenty of fat marbling. Popular cuts of beef for Swiss Steaks include chuck roast, round steak, chuck blade steak, sirloin steak, and so on.
- Tenderize the Steak Thoroughly: Use a meat mallet to tenderize the steak, beating it gently so it doesn’t get too tough.
- Use Fresh Veggies and Spices for the Sauce: Don’t cut corners – for the best-tasting Swiss Steak, be sure to use freshly-cut onions, celery, carrots, garlic, and tomato paste when making the sauce. Season to taste with your favorite spices, like paprika, oregano, and pepper.
- Set a Timer: Cooking Swiss Steak can take a while, especially if the cuts of steak are thicker. To avoid overcooking the steak, set a timer when you put the steak in the oven so you can keep an eye on it!
Swiss steak is a delicious variation of the classic steak that is sure to impress your family or dinner guests. With a few simple steps and the right ingredients, you can easily whip up a delicious Swiss steak that’s juicy, flavorful, and sure to make everyone smile!