How To Braise A Round Steak

Mastering the Art of Braising Round Steak

Are you looking for a delicious and tender way to prepare round steak? Look no further than the art of braising. Braising is a cooking method that involves browning meat in a small amount of fat, then slowly simmering it in a flavorful liquid. This technique is perfect for tougher cuts of meat like round steak, as it helps to break down the tough fibers and create a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Choosing the Right Cut

Before you start braising, it’s important to select the right cut of round steak. Round steak is a lean and flavorful cut of beef, but it can be tough if not cooked properly. Look for a piece of round steak that is well-marbled with fat, as this will help keep the meat moist and tender during the braising process.

Preparing the Ingredients

Once you have your round steak, it’s time to gather the rest of your ingredients. For a classic braised round steak, you’ll need:

• 1-2 pounds of round steak
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups of beef broth
• 1 cup of red wine (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Flour for dredging
• Oil for browning

The Braising Process

Now that you have all your ingredients prepared, it’s time to start braising your round steak. Follow these steps for a mouthwatering result:

1. Begin by seasoning the round steak with salt and pepper, then dredge it in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Heat a small amount of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the round steak and brown it on all sides. This will help develop rich flavor and color.
3. Once the round steak is nicely browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot, and cook until they are softened and fragrant.
4. Return the round steak to the pot, and pour in the beef broth and red wine. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the meat.
5. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the round steak braise for 2-3 hours, or until it is fork-tender.

Serving and Enjoying

Once the round steak is tender and flavorful, it’s time to serve and enjoy your masterpiece. Remove the steak from the pot and slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve the steak with the braised vegetables and a generous spoonful of the rich cooking liquid. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, for a complete and satisfying meal.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of braising round steak, you can enjoy this classic dish any time you’re craving a hearty and comforting meal. Experiment with different flavor combinations and side dishes to make it your own, and impress your family and friends with your newfound culinary skills!

So, the next time you have a round steak on hand, don’t hesitate to braise it for a delicious and satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.