Get Ready to Braise a Delicious Blade Steak
Welcome to our guide on how to braise a mouthwatering blade steak. Braising is a cooking technique that involves searing the meat and then simmering it in a flavorful liquid until it becomes tender and juicy. Blade steak, also known as flat iron steak, is a budget-friendly cut that can be transformed into a delectable dish through the braising process. Follow our simple steps to create a succulent and flavorful blade steak that will have your family and friends coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Blade steak
- Vegetable oil
- Onions
- Garlic
- Beef broth
- Red wine
- Tomato paste
- Herbs and spices (such as thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves)
- Salt and pepper
Step 1: Sear the Blade Steak
Start by seasoning the blade steak with salt and pepper. Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steak and sear it on all sides until it develops a rich, brown crust. This step helps to lock in the steak’s natural juices and adds depth of flavor to the finished dish.
Step 2: Saute the Aromatics
After searing the steak, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot and saute them until they become fragrant and translucent. These aromatics will infuse the braising liquid with savory flavors that will enhance the taste of the blade steak.
Step 3: Create the Braising Liquid
Once the onions and garlic are sauteed, deglaze the pot with a combination of beef broth and red wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, as these contain concentrated flavors from the seared steak. Stir in a spoonful of tomato paste and add herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, to create a fragrant and robust braising liquid.
Step 4: Braise the Blade Steak
Return the seared blade steak to the pot, nestling it into the flavorful liquid. The liquid should partially cover the steak, but not completely submerge it. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow the steak to braise for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until it becomes tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the blade steak is tender, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding it. Strain the braising liquid to remove the solids, then spoon it over the sliced steak for an extra burst of flavor. Serve the braised blade steak with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Now that you’ve mastered the art of braising blade steak, you can enjoy a tender and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this braised blade steak recipe is sure to impress. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and braising liquids to create your own unique variations, and enjoy the rich and satisfying flavors that braising brings out in this budget-friendly cut of beef.