Swiss Steak Dish: A Hearty Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

Swiss steak dish is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. This hearty meal, often made with tenderized beef, is simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, creating a delightful blend of flavors that is both savory and comforting. The origins of Swiss steak can be traced back to the early 20th century, where it became a staple in American households, particularly during the Great Depression, due to its affordability and ease of preparation.

What I love most about this Swiss steak dish is its incredible versatility; it can be served with mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. The tender meat combined with the robust flavors of the sauce creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also evokes a sense of nostalgia for many. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this Swiss steak dish is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of round steak, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup celery, sliced
• 1 cup bell pepper, chopped
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Steak

1. Start by patting the round steak pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the flour adhere better and ensures a nice sear. 2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. I usually go with about a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of pepper, but feel free to adjust according to your taste. 3. Dredge each piece of steak in the flour mixture, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour and set the coated steak aside on a plate.

Cooking the Steak

4. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the floured steak pieces to the pan. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding. 5. Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned. This step is crucial as it locks in the flavors and gives the steak a beautiful color. 6. Once browned, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Don’t worry if the steak isn’t fully cooked at this point; it will finish cooking later.

Building the Flavor Base

7. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. The fond (the brown bits left in the pan) will add a lot of flavor to the dish. 8. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning. 9. Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any stuck bits. This is where the magic happens, as all those flavors come together. 10. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, and bay leaf. Mix everything well to combine.

Combining Ingredients

11. Return the seared steak to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Make sure the steak is mostly submerged in the liquid. 12. Add the sliced carrots, celery, and chopped bell pepper on top of the steak. These vegetables will add sweetness and texture to the dish. 13. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking process will tenderize the steak and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Final Touches

14. After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid. The steak should be fork-tender, and the vegetables should be soft. If the sauce is too thin for your liking, you can remove the steak and vegetables and let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken. 15. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. I usually find that a little extra pepper adds a nice kick. 16. Once everything is to your liking, return the steak and vegetables to the skillet to warm through.

Serving the Swiss Steak

17. To serve, I like to place a generous portion of the steak and vegetables on a plate, spooning some of the rich sauce over the top. 18. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It really brightens up the dish! 19. Swiss steak pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a crusty piece of bread to soak up that delicious sauce.

Storing Leftovers

20. If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the Swiss steak cool completely before transferring it

Conclusion:

In summary, this Swiss steak dish is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. The tender, flavorful meat combined with the rich, savory sauce creates a comforting meal that is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, alongside buttery noodles, or even with a fresh garden salad for a lighter option. Feel free to get creative with variations too! Add in some mushrooms for an earthy twist, or toss in a handful of bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor. You can even switch up the protein by using chicken or pork if you prefer. I encourage you to give this Swiss steak recipe a try and make it your own. Once you’ve tasted the delightful combination of flavors, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your finished dish. Let’s spread the love for this incredible Swiss steak dish together!

Print