Round Steak: A Versatile and Budget-Friendly Cut of Beef
Are you trying to stretch your food budget while still enjoying delicious meals? Look no further than round steak! This cut of beef is versatile, flavorful, and much more affordable than pricier cuts like tenderloin or ribeye.
Round steak comes from the rear leg of the cow and can be purchased bone-in or boneless. It requires a bit of extra cooking time and attention to avoid toughness, but the results are well worth it. Here are some ways to prepare round steak that will make it a staple in your weekly meal plans.
Marinated and Grilled
One of the easiest and most flavorful ways to prepare round steak is to marinate it in your favorite marinade and then grill it. This method works especially well for boneless round steaks, which tend to be thinner and cook more quickly.
To make a simple marinade, combine olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper. Let the steak marinate for at least an hour, or up to overnight. Then, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the steak for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain.
Slow-Cooked Pot Roast
Round steak is also an excellent choice for a classic pot roast. This method involves cooking the steak low and slow in a flavorful broth with onions, carrots, potatoes, and any other vegetables you like.
To make a slow-cooked pot roast, season the steak with salt and pepper and sear it on all sides in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker. Add in your vegetables, beef broth, and any herbs or spices you want to use (thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves are all great options). Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The result will be fall-apart tender meat that's perfect for a comforting dinner.
Stir-Fry
Round steak is ideal for stir-fried dishes because it cooks quickly and can absorb a variety of flavors. To make a simple beef stir-fry, slice your round steak thinly against the grain and marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and a bit of sugar.
Heat some oil in a wok or skillet over high heat, and then cook the beef for about 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove it from the pan and set it aside. Add in any vegetables you like (such as bell peppers, onions, broccoli, and snow peas) and stir-fry them for a few minutes until tender-crisp. Then, return the beef to the pan and toss everything together with your favorite stir-fry sauce.
Conclusion
Round steak may not be as well-known as other cuts of beef, but it should definitely be on your radar if you're looking for an affordable and tasty option. Whether you grill it, slow-cook it, or stir-fry it, round steak can be transformed into a delicious meal with just a bit of seasoning and a little bit of time. Start experimenting with this versatile cut today and see how easy it is to cook up a fantastic dinner!
