Steakums sandwiches have been a staple in many American households for decades. These thinly sliced steaks, often served on a hoagie roll with melted cheese and various toppings, are a favorite among both children and adults. In this article, we will explore the history of Steakums, the different types of Steakums available, and most importantly, provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect Steakums sandwich.
A Brief History of Steakums
Steakums were first introduced in the 1960s by the Quaker Maid Meats Company. The company’s founder, Eugene Gagliardi, developed a machine that could slice steak into thin strips, making it more affordable and accessible to the average consumer. The name “Steakums” was coined by combining the words “steak” and “drumsticks,” which were a popular food item at the time.
Over the years, Steakums have become a staple in many American households. They are often served in school cafeterias, and are a popular choice for family dinners and parties.
Types of Steakums
There are several types of Steakums available in the market today. Some of the most popular varieties include:
Original Steakums
These are the classic Steakums that have been around for decades. They are made from thinly sliced steak, and are often served on a hoagie roll with melted cheese and various toppings.
Philly Steakums
These Steakums are made with thinly sliced steak, and are often served on a hoagie roll with sautéed onions and bell peppers.
Chicken Steakums
These Steakums are made with thinly sliced chicken breast, and are often served on a hoagie roll with melted cheese and various toppings.
How to Make the Perfect Steakums Sandwich
Making the perfect Steakums sandwich is not rocket science, but it does require some skill and attention to detail. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Prepare the Steakums
Before you start making your Steakums sandwich, you need to prepare the Steakums themselves. Here’s how:
- Take the Steakums out of the freezer and let them thaw for a few hours. You can also thaw them in the microwave or by leaving them in cold water for a few minutes.
- Once the Steakums are thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Cook the Steakums
There are several ways to cook Steakums, including pan-frying, grilling, and baking. Here’s how to cook them using each method:
Pan-Frying
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. |
| 2 | Add a small amount of oil to the pan, and swirl it around to coat the bottom. |
| 3 | Add the Steakums to the pan, and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness. |
Grilling
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. |
| 2 | Add the Steakums to the grill, and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness. |
Baking
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). |
| 2 | Add the Steakums to a baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness. |
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Once the Steakums are cooked, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s how:
- Take a hoagie roll, and slice it in half lengthwise.
- Add a layer of cheese to the bottom half of the roll. You can use any type of cheese you like, but melted mozzarella or provolone work well.
- Add the cooked Steakums on top of the cheese.
- Add your desired toppings, such as sautéed onions and bell peppers, lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
- Place the top half of the roll on the sandwich, and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the perfect Steakums sandwich:
Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your Steakums sandwich will depend on the quality of the ingredients you use. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients, and avoid using low-quality cheese and toppings.
- Don’t overcook the Steakums: Steakums are best cooked to medium-rare or medium. Overcooking them can make them tough and dry.
- Use the right type of cheese: Melted mozzarella or provolone work well on Steakums sandwiches. Avoid using low-quality cheese that doesn’t melt well.
Variations
- Philly Steakums: Add sautéed onions and bell peppers to your Steakums sandwich for a Philly-style twist.
- Chicken Steakums: Use chicken breast instead of steak for a lower-fat alternative.
- Veggie Steakums: Add sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms and spinach, to your Steakums sandwich for a vegetarian twist.
In conclusion, making the perfect Steakums sandwich is not difficult, but it does require some skill and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this article, and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a delicious Steakums sandwich that will impress your family and friends.
What is a Steakums sandwich?
A Steakums sandwich is a type of sandwich that features thinly sliced steak, typically made from ribeye or top round, that has been frozen and then cooked. The steak is usually served on a hoagie roll with melted cheese, such as provolone or American, and various toppings like sautéed onions and bell peppers.
The Steakums sandwich originated in the 1960s and has since become a popular convenience food item. It’s known for its ease of preparation and flavorful taste. The sandwich can be cooked in a variety of ways, including pan-frying, grilling, or microwaving, making it a versatile option for those looking for a quick and delicious meal.
What type of steak is best for Steakums sandwiches?
The best type of steak for Steakums sandwiches is thinly sliced ribeye or top round. These cuts of meat are tender and have a good balance of flavor and texture. Ribeye is a popular choice because it’s rich in marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness to the steak. Top round, on the other hand, is a leaner cut that’s still packed with flavor.
When selecting steak for your Steakums sandwiches, look for thinly sliced cuts that are about 1/8 inch thick. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and quickly. You can also use other types of steak, such as sirloin or flank steak, but ribeye and top round are the most traditional choices.
How do I cook Steakums sandwiches?
Steakums sandwiches can be cooked in a variety of ways, including pan-frying, grilling, or microwaving. Pan-frying is a popular method because it allows for a crispy crust to form on the steak. To pan-fry your Steakums sandwiches, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Place the steak in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Grilling is another great way to cook Steakums sandwiches. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the steak on the grates. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Microwaving is also an option, but be careful not to overcook the steak. Cook on high for about 30-45 seconds per side, or until the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
What toppings are best for Steakums sandwiches?
The toppings for Steakums sandwiches are endless, but some popular choices include sautéed onions and bell peppers, melted cheese, and marinara sauce. Sautéed onions and bell peppers add a sweet and crunchy texture to the sandwich, while melted cheese adds creaminess. Marinara sauce adds a tangy and savory flavor that complements the steak perfectly.
Other toppings you might consider include sliced mushrooms, diced tomatoes, and chopped fresh parsley. You can also add some spice to your Steakums sandwiches with hot peppers or red pepper flakes. The key is to find a combination of toppings that you enjoy and that complement the flavor of the steak.
Can I make Steakums sandwiches in advance?
Yes, you can make Steakums sandwiches in advance, but it’s best to cook the steak just before serving. You can prepare the toppings and assemble the sandwiches ahead of time, but cooking the steak too far in advance can result in a loss of flavor and texture.
If you need to make Steakums sandwiches in advance, consider cooking the steak and then refrigerating or freezing it until you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches. This will help preserve the flavor and texture of the steak. You can also assemble the sandwiches and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to cook the steak and serve.
How do I store leftover Steakums sandwiches?
Leftover Steakums sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. If you’re storing the sandwiches in the refrigerator, make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
If you’re freezing the sandwiches, consider wrapping them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep the sandwiches fresh for a longer period. When you’re ready to eat the sandwiches, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or cook them straight from the freezer.
Are Steakums sandwiches healthy?
Steakums sandwiches can be a healthy option if you choose the right ingredients and cooking methods. Look for lean cuts of steak and trim any excess fat before cooking. You can also load up on vegetables like sautéed onions and bell peppers to add fiber and nutrients to the sandwich.
However, Steakums sandwiches can also be high in calories and fat if you’re not careful. Consider using a whole wheat hoagie roll and reducing the amount of cheese and sauce you use. You can also opt for a lower-calorie cooking method like grilling or pan-frying with a small amount of oil. By making a few simple tweaks, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy Steakums sandwich.