Grandma’s Slow Cooker Swiss Steak Recipe
Introduction
Grandma’s Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is one of those comfort food recipes that transport you right back to her cozy kitchen. This hearty dish, loaded with tender, flavorful beef and drenched in a savory tomato-based sauce, is a family favorite for good reason. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special Sunday dinner, this recipe is a time-tested classic that leverages the convenience of a slow cooker to deliver mouthwatering results with minimal effort. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deep into the recipe with step-by-step instructions, ingredients, cooking techniques, helpful notes, and more.
Ingredients
🌟 2 pounds beef round steak, cut into serving-size pieces
🌟 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
🌟 1 teaspoon garlic powder
🌟 1 teaspoon onion powder
🌟 Salt and pepper to taste
🌟 1/4 cup vegetable oil
🌟 1 large onion, thinly sliced
🌟 2 cloves garlic, minced
🌟 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
🌟 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
🌟 1 cup beef broth
🌟 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
🌟 1 teaspoon paprika
🌟 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
🌟 Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
1. Preparing the Steak:
– In a bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge the beef pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated.
2. Browning the Steak:
– In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the coated beef pieces to the skillet and brown them on each side, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker.
3. Sautéing the Aromatics:
РIn the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Saut̩ for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Adding Liquids and Seasonings:
– Pour the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth over the beef and onions in the slow cooker. Add the Worcestershire sauce and paprika. If using, add the sliced bell pepper on top.
5. Slow Cooking:
– Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The beef should become tender and the flavors well combined.
6. Finishing Touches:
– Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
– You can adjust the level of seasoning to your preference, adding more paprika or Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
– For a slightly thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker liquids about 30 minutes before the cooking time ends.
Cooking Techniques
– Proper browning of the beef is crucial, as it adds depth of flavor to the dish. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet while browning.
– Using a slow cooker allows the beef to cook low and slow, breaking down the connective tissues and resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck steak or brisket, but cooking times may vary.
Q: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
A: Absolutely. Use the sauté function for browning and aromatics and then pressure cook on high for 35 minutes.
Q: Do I have to use a slow cooker?
A: No, you can also make this in a Dutch oven. Start on the stove and then transfer to an oven at 325°F for 2-3 hours.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, the cooked dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic journey back to simpler times when food was cooked with love and care. With its tender beef and rich, savory sauce, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household too. The convenience of the slow cooker means you get all the flavors of a time-consuming dish with minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: spending quality time with family and friends.
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