Round steak, a lean cut of beef, is often overlooked in favor of more popular cuts like ribeye or sirloin. However, when cooked correctly, round steak can be a tender and flavorful addition to any meal. One of the best ways to cook round steak is in a slow cooker, where it can simmer in its own juices for hours, becoming tender and infused with flavor. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to cook round steak in a slow cooker, including tips, tricks, and recipes to make your dish a success.
Choosing the Right Cut of Round Steak
Before we dive into cooking techniques, it’s essential to choose the right cut of round steak. There are several types of round steak, including:
Top Round Steak
Top round steak is a lean cut of beef, taken from the inside of the hind leg. It’s a great choice for slow cooking, as it’s tender and has a fine texture.
Bottom Round Steak
Bottom round steak is also taken from the hind leg, but it’s a bit tougher than top round steak. However, it’s still a great choice for slow cooking, as it becomes tender and flavorful with long cooking times.
Eye Round Steak
Eye round steak is a lean cut of beef, taken from the rear section of the round. It’s a great choice for slow cooking, as it’s tender and has a delicate flavor.
When choosing a cut of round steak, look for one that’s at least 1-2 pounds in weight. This will ensure that the steak is large enough to feed your family, but not so large that it’s difficult to cook evenly.
Preparing the Round Steak for Slow Cooking
Before cooking the round steak, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Trimming the Fat
Round steak can be quite lean, but it’s still important to trim any excess fat from the surface of the meat. This will help the steak cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too greasy.
Seasoning the Steak
Seasoning the steak is essential for adding flavor to the dish. Use a mixture of salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices to season the steak. You can also add a bit of oil to the steak to help it brown during cooking.
Searing the Steak (Optional)
Searing the steak before slow cooking can add a nice crust to the surface of the meat. Simply heat a bit of oil in a pan over high heat, then sear the steak for 1-2 minutes on each side. This step is optional, but it can add a lot of flavor to the dish.
Cooking the Round Steak in a Slow Cooker
Now that the round steak is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the slow cooker. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Adding Liquid to the Slow Cooker
Adding liquid to the slow cooker is essential for keeping the steak moist and flavorful. You can use a variety of liquids, including beef broth, wine, or even beer. The key is to use enough liquid to cover the steak, but not so much that it’s swimming in liquid.
Cooking Time and Temperature
The cooking time and temperature will depend on the size and type of round steak you’re using. As a general rule, cook the steak on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. The recommended internal temperature for medium-rare is 130-135°F (54-57°C), while medium is 140-145°F (60-63°C).
Adding Aromatics to the Slow Cooker
Adding aromatics to the slow cooker can add a lot of flavor to the dish. You can use a variety of aromatics, including onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Simply chop the aromatics and add them to the slow cooker with the steak.
Recipes for Round Steak in a Slow Cooker
Here are a few recipes for round steak in a slow cooker:
Recipe 1: Braised Round Steak with Mushrooms and Onions
Ingredients:
- 1-2 pounds round steak
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Season the round steak with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Heat a bit of oil in a pan over high heat, then sear the steak for 1-2 minutes on each side.
- Add the mushrooms, onions, and garlic to the slow cooker.
- Add the beef broth, tomato paste, and seared steak to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- Serve the steak with the mushrooms and onions spooned over the top.
Recipe 2: Round Steak Fajitas
Ingredients:
- 1-2 pounds round steak
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup sliced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 small flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Season the round steak with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
- Heat a bit of oil in a pan over high heat, then sear the steak for 1-2 minutes on each side.
- Add the bell peppers, onions, and garlic to the slow cooker.
- Add the beef broth and seared steak to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- Slice the steak into thin strips and serve with the bell peppers and onions.
- Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
- Assemble the fajitas by placing the steak and vegetables onto the tortillas and adding your desired toppings.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when cooking round steak in a slow cooker:
Using a Slow Cooker with a Browning Function
Some slow cookers come with a browning function, which allows you to sear the steak directly in the slow cooker. This can be a convenient option, as it eliminates the need to heat a separate pan.
Adding Other Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
You can add a variety of ingredients to the slow cooker to enhance the flavor of the dish. Some options include:
- Potatoes: Slice or dice potatoes and add them to the slow cooker with the steak.
- Carrots: Slice or dice carrots and add them to the slow cooker with the steak.
- Celery: Slice or dice celery and add it to the slow cooker with the steak.
- Tomatoes: Crush or dice tomatoes and add them to the slow cooker with the steak.
Using Different Types of Liquid
You can use a variety of liquids in the slow cooker, including:
- Beef broth: This is a classic choice for slow cooking round steak.
- Wine: Red or white wine can add a rich, depth of flavor to the dish.
- Beer: Beer can add a nice, malty flavor to the dish.
- Stock: Chicken or beef stock can be used in place of beef broth.
Conclusion
Cooking round steak in a slow cooker is a great way to create a tender and flavorful dish. By following the tips and recipes outlined in this article, you can create a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish or a flavorful, spicy meal, round steak in a slow cooker is a great option. So next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to pick up a round steak and give this recipe a try!
What is round steak and how does it benefit from slow cooking?
Round steak is a lean cut of beef that comes from the hindquarters of the animal. It is known for its rich flavor and firm texture, but it can be quite tough if not cooked properly. Slow cooking is an ideal method for cooking round steak because it allows the connective tissues in the meat to break down, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
The low heat and moisture of the slow cooker help to break down the collagen in the meat, making it tender and easy to chew. Additionally, the slow cooking process allows the flavors of the seasonings and sauces to penetrate deep into the meat, resulting in a rich and savory flavor.
What are the benefits of cooking round steak in a slow cooker?
Cooking round steak in a slow cooker has several benefits. One of the main advantages is that it is a hands-off method of cooking, allowing you to prepare the dish in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat meal. Additionally, the slow cooker is a great way to cook tougher cuts of meat, like round steak, because it allows for long, slow cooking times that break down the connective tissues.
Another benefit of cooking round steak in a slow cooker is that it is a healthy way to cook. The slow cooker uses low heat and moisture to cook the meat, which helps to retain the nutrients and flavors of the ingredients. This method of cooking is also energy-efficient and can help to reduce cooking time and effort.
How do I prepare round steak for slow cooking?
To prepare round steak for slow cooking, start by seasoning the meat with your desired spices and herbs. You can use a dry rub or a marinade to add flavor to the meat. Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak on both sides to create a crust. This step helps to lock in the juices and flavors of the meat.
Once the steak is seared, place it in the slow cooker with your desired sauce or seasonings. You can use a store-bought sauce or create your own using ingredients like beef broth, wine, and herbs. Make sure to add enough liquid to the slow cooker to cover the meat, and then cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
What are some popular seasonings and sauces for round steak in a slow cooker?
There are many popular seasonings and sauces that you can use for round steak in a slow cooker. Some common options include garlic and herbs, like thyme and rosemary, which add a savory flavor to the meat. You can also use a dry rub with spices like paprika and chili powder to add a smoky flavor.
For sauces, you can use a store-bought beef broth or create your own using ingredients like red wine, beef broth, and herbs. Some popular sauce options include a mushroom gravy, a peppercorn sauce, or a horseradish sauce. You can also add some acidity to the sauce, like lemon juice or vinegar, to help break down the connective tissues in the meat.
Can I cook round steak in a slow cooker from frozen?
Yes, you can cook round steak in a slow cooker from frozen. However, it’s essential to note that the cooking time will be longer than if you were cooking a thawed steak. It’s recommended to add an extra 2-3 hours to the cooking time to ensure that the steak is cooked through and tender.
When cooking a frozen steak in a slow cooker, make sure to adjust the seasoning and sauce accordingly. You may need to add more liquid to the slow cooker to cover the meat, and you can also add more seasonings and spices to compensate for the longer cooking time.
How do I know when round steak is cooked to perfection in a slow cooker?
To determine if round steak is cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The recommended internal temperature for cooked beef is at least 145°F (63°C). You can also check the tenderness of the meat by inserting a fork or knife into the thickest part of the steak. If it slides in easily, the steak is cooked to perfection.
Another way to check if the steak is cooked is to look for visual cues. A cooked steak will be tender and fall-apart, and the juices will run clear. If the steak is still tough or the juices are pink, it may need more cooking time.
What are some serving suggestions for slow-cooked round steak?
Slow-cooked round steak is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. One popular option is to serve it with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables, like carrots and green beans. You can also serve it with a side of rice or noodles, or use it in a sandwich or wrap.
Another option is to serve the steak with a side of roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or broccoli. You can also add some sautéed onions or mushrooms to the steak for added flavor and texture. The slow-cooked round steak is also a great option for meal prep, as it can be refrigerated or frozen for later use.