If you're in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal, this Rustic Country-Style Beef Steak is your answer. It's the perfect blend of tender beef and robust flavors, making it a standout dish for any evening. Plus, it's straightforward enough for a weeknight but special enough for a Sunday dinner.
Beef round steak is the star here. It's affordable and becomes beautifully tender when cooked slowly. All-purpose flour helps create a crust on the steak, holding in moisture and adding texture. We season with salt and black pepper to enhance the beef's natural flavors. Vegetable oil is our go-to for browning due to its high smoke point. Onion and green bell pepper bring sweetness and a touch of bitterness, which balance the dish. Garlic adds depth. Diced tomatoes provide acidity and freshness, while Worcestershire sauce deepens the umami profile. Beef broth moistens the dish and amplifies the beef flavor. Tomato paste thickens the sauce, with thyme and paprika offering warmth and a hint of earthiness.
This rustic beef steak pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles. The starchy sides soak up the sauce beautifully. Add a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for some freshness and color contrast on the plate.
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This low, steady heat is key for tenderizing the beef. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper. You'll want to dredge the beef steak in this mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated. This step gives the steak a nice crust when browned.
Next, heat vegetable oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the steak in the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they're beautifully browned. This initial browning locks in the juices. Remove the steak and set it aside for now.
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced onions and chopped green bell pepper. Sauté them until the onions are caramelized, roughly 5 minutes. This caramelization adds sweetness and complexity to the dish. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until it's fragrant but not burnt.
Pour in the diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and tomato paste. Add the thyme and paprika, stirring until everything is well combined. This should create a savory, aromatic sauce that's rich in flavor.
Return the steak to the skillet, making sure to spoon some of the sauce over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil, and transfer it to your preheated oven. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, allowing the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Once baked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
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