Traditional Swiss Steak

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 2 hours
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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Traditional Swiss Steak is a hearty, comforting dish that transforms a humble cut of beef into something truly special. With its rich tomato-based sauce and tender meat, it's a perfect meal for colder weather or any time you need a little culinary coziness.

Ingredients for Traditional Swiss Steak

Beef round steak is a budget-friendly cut that benefits from slow cooking, becoming tender and flavorful. All-purpose flour helps to sear the steak and thickens the sauce. A touch of salt and black pepper enhance the beef's natural flavors. Vegetable oil is used for browning, adding a slight richness to the dish.

Onion and garlic provide aromatic depth, creating the flavor base for the sauce. Diced tomatoes contribute acidity and sweetness, balancing the savory elements. Beef broth enriches the sauce with an umami boost, while Worcestershire sauce adds a slight tang. Paprika, thyme, and oregano add warmth and aromatic complexity. Finally, bell pepper offers a sweet, fresh contrast to the rich sauce.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you don't have a meat mallet, a rolling pin or heavy skillet can work for tenderizing the steak.
  • For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 20 minutes of baking.
  • Use fresh herbs if available for an added burst of flavor – just double the amount compared to dried herbs.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, serve it over fluffy rice or buttered noodles for a comforting meal. A side of steamed green beans or a crisp green salad can add a fresh counterpoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, cuts like chuck or blade steak also work well and result in tender, flavorful meat.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

Traditional Swiss Steak Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures it's ready when the dish needs to bake. Next, take your beef round steak and use a meat mallet to pound it to about 1/2 inch thick. This step is crucial as it helps tenderize the meat and ensures even cooking.

In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the steak in the flour mixture, giving it a light, even coating. Heat vegetable oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high. Once hot, add the steak and brown it for about 5 minutes on each side. Don’t rush this step; browning adds flavor.

After browning, remove the steak and set it aside. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until softened, which should take a few minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Let the mixture simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.

Return the steak to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Scatter the chopped bell peppers over the top. Cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the steak is tender and easily pulls apart.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for slow-cooking enthusiasts who love a tender, flavorful result.
  • Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch.
  • Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd with minimal fuss.
  • Versatile serving options – pairs well with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

2 pounds beef round steak
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Pound the round steak with a meat mallet until about 1/2 inch thick.
3. In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the steak in the flour mixture to coat.
4. In a large ovenproof skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add steak and brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Remove steak from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
6. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
7. Return steak to the skillet, covering with sauce. Scatter chopped bell peppers over the top.
8. Cover skillet and transfer to preheated oven. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until steak is tender.
9. Serve hot with mashed potatoes or over rice.

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