Four Cheap, Delicious Round Steak Recipes For Dinner On A Budget

Round steak is a versatile cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a lean cut that is budget-friendly and easy to cook. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to feed a crowd, round steak is a great option.

One of the most popular ways to prepare round steak is to cook it low and slow in a flavorful sauce. This method of cooking helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Some popular sauces for round steak include tomato-based sauces, barbecue sauce, and Asian-inspired sauces. Round steak can also be grilled or broiled for a quick and easy meal.

In this article, we will explore different ways to prepare round steak and provide recipes for a variety of dishes. Whether you are new to cooking with round steak or are looking for new recipe ideas, this article will provide you with the information you need to make delicious meals with this versatile cut of meat.

The Basics of Round Steak

What is Round Steak?

Round steak is a lean cut of beef that comes from the round primal cut of beef. This cut comes from the rear leg of the cow, and it is known for its toughness. Round steak is often used for slow-cooking methods, such as braising or stewing, to help break down the tough muscle fibers and create a tender, flavorful dish.

How to Choose Round Steak

When choosing round steak, it is important to look for a cut that is bright red in color with minimal marbling. The more marbling a cut has, the more tender and flavorful it will be. However, round steak is naturally lean, so it is important to avoid cuts that are too lean, as they can be tough and dry.

It is also important to consider the grade of the beef when choosing round steak. USDA Prime beef is the highest grade and is known for its superior marbling and tenderness. USDA Choice beef is a good choice for round steak, as it is still high quality but more affordable.

How to Store Round Steak

To ensure the freshness and quality of round steak, it is important to store it properly. Raw round steak should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 33°F and 40°F. It should be used within 3 to 5 days of purchase or frozen for later use.

When freezing round steak, it is important to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Cooked round steak should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 to 4 days. It can also be frozen for later use, but it may lose some of its texture and flavor when reheated.

Preparing Round Steak

Round steak is a popular cut of beef that is known for its affordability and versatility. However, it can also be tough and chewy if not prepared properly. Here are some tips for preparing round steak that will help you get the most out of this delicious cut of meat.

Marinades and Seasonings

Marinades and seasonings are a great way to add flavor and tenderize round steak. Here are some ideas:

• Acidic marinades: Round steak benefits from acidic marinades that help break down the tough fibers. Try marinades that contain vinegar, citrus juice, or wine.
• Dry rubs: A dry rub can add flavor and help tenderize the meat. Try a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and other spices.
• Soy sauce: Soy sauce is a great marinade for round steak. It adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat.

Cooking Methods

Round steak can be cooked in a variety of ways, but some methods work better than others. Here are some options:

• Braising: Braising involves cooking the meat in liquid over low heat for a long time. This method is great for tough cuts like round steak because it helps break down the fibers and make the meat tender.
• Slow cooking: Slow cooking is another great option for round steak. You can cook it in a slow cooker or in the oven at a low temperature for several hours.
• Grilling: Grilling round steak can be tricky because it can easily become tough and chewy. However, if you marinate the meat first and cook it quickly over high heat, it can be delicious.

Tips for Tenderizing Round Steak

Here are some additional tips for tenderizing round steak:

• Pound it: Pound the meat with a meat mallet to break down the fibers and make it more tender.
• Score it: Score the surface of the meat with a sharp knife to help the marinade penetrate.
• Let it rest: Let the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

By following these tips, you can prepare round steak that is tender, flavorful, and delicious.

Delicious Round Steak Recipes

Round steak is a versatile cut of beef that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some delicious round steak recipes that you can try at home:

Classic Round Steak with Gravy

Classic round steak with gravy is a comfort food that is easy to make. To make this dish, you will need:

• 2 pounds round steak
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups beef broth

To prepare the dish, mix together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a shallow dish. Dredge the round steak in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the round steak and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.

Remove the round steak from the skillet and set aside. Add the beef broth to the skillet and stir to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Return the round steak to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1 hour, or until the round steak is tender.

Round Steak Stir Fry

Round steak stir fry is a quick and easy dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. To make this dish, you will need:

• 1 pound round steak, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

To prepare the dish, heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the round steak and stir fry for 2-3 minutes, or until browned. Remove the round steak from the skillet and set aside.

Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet and stir fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. Add the sauce to the skillet and stir to coat the vegetables.

Return the round steak to the skillet and stir fry for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the round steak is heated through.

Grilled Round Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Grilled round steak with chimichurri sauce is a flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. To make this dish, you will need:

• 2 pounds round steak
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper, to taste

To prepare the dish, mix together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, parsley, cilantro, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Brush the mixture over both sides of the round steak.

Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Grill the round steak for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Let the round steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Serve the sliced round steak with the chimichurri sauce.

Slow Cooker Round Steak Stew

Slow cooker round steak stew is a hearty dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. To make this dish, you will need:

• 2 pounds round steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

To prepare the dish, add the round steak, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker. Stir to combine.

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the round steak is tender.

Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Round Steak Tacos

Round steak tacos are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional beef tacos. To make this dish, you will need:

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

When serving round steak, it is important to pair it with the right side dishes to enhance its flavor. Some popular options include roasted vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots. You can also serve it with a side salad to add some freshness to the meal. Another great option is mashed potatoes, which can help balance out the richness of the steak.

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, consider serving your round steak with some grilled pineapple or a side of sautéed mushrooms. These options can add some sweetness or earthiness to the meal, respectively.

Wine Pairings

When it comes to wine pairings, there are a few options that work particularly well with round steak. For red wine lovers, a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or a spicy Syrah can help bring out the rich flavors of the meat. If you prefer white wine, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay can also be great options.

If you’re not sure which wine to choose, consider asking your local wine shop for recommendations based on the specific cut of round steak you’re cooking.

Leftovers

If you have leftover round steak, there are many ways to repurpose it into new meals. One popular option is to slice it thinly and use it as a topping for salads or sandwiches. You can also chop it up and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.

Another great option is to make a stir-fry with your leftover steak. Simply sauté some vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and broccoli, and add in your sliced steak towards the end of the cooking process. Serve it over rice or noodles for a quick and easy meal.

Overall, round steak is a versatile cut of meat that can be paired with a variety of side dishes and wines. With a little creativity, you can turn your leftovers into new and exciting meals.