Why the Country Style Steak Is a Must-make
When you crave comfort food that warms the soul, country style steak is a must-make dish. I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia every time I prepare it.
The aroma fills my kitchen, instantly transporting me to family gatherings and cozy dinners. This dish combines tender, flavorful meat with rich gravy that wraps around each bite.
It’s the perfect meal for any occasion, whether it’s a chilly evening or just a day when I need some extra comfort. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular dinner rotation.
It’s simply irresistible!
Ingredients of Country Style Steak
When it comes to making a hearty country style steak, the ingredients play a vital role in bringing that comforting flavor to life. You want to make sure you have everything ready before diving into the cooking process. After all, no one wants to be halfway through a recipe and realize they’re missing a key ingredient, right?
So, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish.
Here’s your shopping list for country style steak:
- 2 lbs beef bottom round steaks, trimmed of excess fat
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or 1/4 cup bacon drippings
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 (8 ounce) packets brown gravy mix
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Now, let’s chat about a couple of those ingredients. First off, choosing the right meat is essential. The beef bottom round steak is a great choice because it’s lean yet flavorful, but don’t be afraid to ask your butcher for advice or for a different cut if you’re feeling adventurous.
And speaking of adventure, the oil you use can really change the game. Sure, vegetable oil will do the trick, but if you want to kick it up a notch, bacon drippings add a rich, smoky flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen!
How to Make Country Style Steak
When it comes to making a hearty country style steak, the process is almost as satisfying as the end result. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to a cozy 300 degrees F. While that’s warming up, take your 2 lbs of beef bottom round steaks, and cut them into 1/2-inch thick slices. Don’t forget to season both sides with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and 1 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper. This is where you start to feel that comforting aroma wafting through the kitchen, and it’s just the beginning.
Once seasoned, grab a pie pan and pour in 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour. It’s time to dredge those seasoned steaks in the flour, giving them a nice coating. For the tenderizing part, you’ll want a needling device—this is where the magic happens. Give each slice a good tenderizing until it’s about 1/4-inch thick, and then dredge them in the flour once more. The double coating is key for that crispy, golden crust we all crave.
Now, let’s get cooking. In a 4 to 5-quart Dutch oven, add 1/4 cup of vegetable oil or bacon drippings, and heat it over medium-high. You want that oil shimmering, not smoking—think of it as the perfect stage for your steaks. When it’s ready, gently place your coated steaks into the pot, making sure not to overcrowd them. Give them about 2 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. Oh, the sizzle and smell are heavenly.
Once they’re browned, set them aside on a plate, and repeat the process until all the steaks have had their moment in the limelight.
Now for the pièce de résistance: the gravy. Mix together 2 cups of chicken broth, 2 packets of brown gravy mix, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme in the Dutch oven, whisking it until it just comes to a boil. This is where your kitchen starts smelling like a warm hug.
Return all those beautiful steaks to the pot, ensuring they’re submerged in that lovely gravy. Cover the pot and pop it into your preheated oven. Let it cook for about 1 ½ to 2 hours, and trust me, the wait is worth it. You’ll know it’s done when the meat is tender and practically falling apart. Go ahead, take a moment to admire your handiwork; you’re about to serve up some serious comfort food.
Country Style Steak Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your country style steak, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to try. You can swap the bottom round steaks for chuck or sirloin for a different flavor and tenderness.
Instead of chicken broth, consider beef broth for a richer taste. For a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper to your seasoning mix.
If you want a twist on the gravy, try using mushroom gravy or adding sautéed onions and mushrooms to the mix.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs too; rosemary or oregano can provide a delightful aromatic touch!
What to Serve with Country Style Steak
To create a truly satisfying meal, pairing your country style steak with the right sides can elevate the entire dining experience.
I love serving creamy mashed potatoes; they soak up that delicious gravy beautifully. A side of green beans or sautéed spinach adds a vibrant touch and balances the richness of the steak.
For something heartier, you can’t go wrong with cornbread or biscuits, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also provide a revitalizing contrast.
These combinations not only complement the steak but make for a comforting, well-rounded meal.
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing country style steak, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind to enhance the dish.
First, don’t skip the tenderizing step; it really makes a difference in texture. If you want extra flavor, marinate the steak overnight in your favorite seasoning.
When browning the steaks, make sure not to overcrowd the pan; it helps achieve that beautiful crust. Also, feel free to swap chicken broth for beef broth for a richer flavor.
Finally, let the steak rest for about 10 minutes before serving—it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and delicious!