Beef round steak is a budget-friendly and versatile cut of meat, known for its lean texture and rich flavor. However, its leanness also makes it prone to toughness if not cooked properly. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or a special dinner, knowing the best way to cook round steak so it is tender is crucial to achieving delicious results.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore multiple cooking methods, including braising, slow cooking, and marinating, all of which can make your round steak tender and flavorful. We’ll also share recipes, tips, and answers to common questions so that you can make the most of this affordable cut of beef.
Why Round Steak Can Be Tough
Before we dive into the best ways to cook round steak, it’s essential to understand why this cut can sometimes be tough. Round steak comes from the hindquarters of the cow, specifically the round primal section, which includes the top round, bottom round, and eye of round. The muscles in this part of the animal are frequently used, resulting in leaner meat with less fat marbling compared to cuts like ribeye or sirloin.
Why Fat Content Matters for Tenderness
- Lower Fat Content: Fat helps to keep meat moist and tender, which is why cuts like ribeye and sirloin are naturally more tender. Round steak, being lean, lacks the natural fat to keep it tender during cooking.
- Frequent Muscle Use: The more a muscle is used, the tougher the meat becomes. Round steak comes from the cow’s hind leg, a part that is regularly engaged in movement.
- Dense Muscle Fibers: The fibers in round steak are dense, requiring specific cooking methods to break them down and ensure tenderness.
Now that we know why round steak can be tough, let’s explore the best cooking techniques that will result in a tender, delicious steak every time.
Best Cooking Methods to Tenderize Round Steak
When cooking round steak, the goal is to break down its dense muscle fibers and retain as much moisture as possible. The following methods are ideal for achieving tender, juicy steak.
1. Braising: The Best Method for Tenderness
Braising is one of the most effective methods for tenderizing round steak. This technique involves both dry and moist heat, which breaks down the muscle fibers over time, leaving you with melt-in-your-mouth results.
How to Braise Round Steak:
- Season the steak: Season the beef round steak with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs you prefer.
- Sear the steak: In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sear the steak on both sides until golden brown.
- Add aromatics and liquid: Add chopped onions, garlic, and herbs to the pot. Pour in enough liquid, such as beef broth or red wine, to cover about half the steak.
- Slow simmer: Bring the liquid to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the steak is fork-tender.
Braising is perfect for round steak recipes like beef round steak with mushroom gravy, where the steak absorbs all the rich flavors of the braising liquid. The slow cooking process ensures that the tough fibers break down, making the steak tender.
For more tips on braising, check out this guide to braising beef.
2. Slow Cooking for Tender, Flavorful Meals
Slow cooking is another excellent method for achieving tender round steak. The low-and-slow cooking process allows the meat to break down gradually, resulting in tender meat that pairs beautifully with vegetables and hearty broths.
How to Slow Cook Round Steak:
- Prepare the steak: Season the beef round steak with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Add to slow cooker: Place the steak in a slow cooker along with onions, carrots, potatoes, and any other vegetables you like.
- Add liquid: Pour in beef broth, red wine, or even tomato sauce. The liquid should cover about half of the steak.
- Cook low and slow: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the steak is tender and falls apart easily.
Slow cooking works exceptionally well for beef round steak stew or pot roast. It allows the flavors to develop over time and the meat to become incredibly tender.
For additional slow-cooking ideas, visit this slow cooking beef recipe guide.
3. Marinating to Tenderize Round Steak
Marinating is an effective way to tenderize round steak before cooking. The acid in the marinade (such as vinegar or citrus juice) helps break down the tough fibers in the meat, while the oil and spices infuse the steak with flavor.
Basic Marinade for Round Steak:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps to Marinate Round Steak:
- Prepare the marinade: Mix all ingredients in a bowl or a resealable bag.
- Add the steak: Place the steak in the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Marinate for best results: Let the steak marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but overnight is recommended for the best results.
- Cook the steak: After marinating, grill, pan-sear, or broil the steak.
Marinating adds both flavor and moisture to the steak, making it a great option for grilling or broiling.
4. Grilling: How to Grill Round Steak for Tender Results
Grilling round steak can be tricky because of its lean nature, but if you marinate the steak properly and slice it thinly against the grain, you can achieve tender results.
Tips:
- Marinate first: To avoid dryness, always marinate the steak before grilling. The marinade helps to tenderize the meat.
- Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill quickly: Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Let it rest: After grilling, allow the steak to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute.
Grilled round steak is excellent for dishes like fajitas, tacos, or even thinly sliced and served with a fresh salad.
Delicious Recipes for Tender Round Steak
Now that you know the best cooking methods, let’s explore some delicious recipes that highlight the versatility and flavor of beef round steak.
1. Braised Round Steak with Mushroom Gravy
This comforting dish features tender round steak braised in a savory mushroom gravy, perfect for a cozy dinner with mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef round steak
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sear the steak: Heat oil in a Dutch oven and sear the steak on both sides.
- Add vegetables: Add the onion, mushrooms, and garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
- Braise: Pour in the beef broth, red wine, and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and simmer for 2 hours, or until the steak is tender.
- Serve: Slice the steak and serve with the mushroom gravy.
This dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for special occasions or family dinners.
2. Slow-Cooked Beef Round Steak Pot Roast
This classic recipe uses the slow-cooking method to create a tender, flavorful pot roast that’s perfect for a Sunday dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef round steak
- 4 large potatoes, cubed
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Prepare the steak: Season the steak with salt and pepper.
- Add to slow cooker: Place the steak in the slow cooker along with the potatoes, carrots, and onion.
- Add liquid: Stir the tomato paste into the beef broth and pour it over the steak.
- Cook on low: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the steak is tender and the vegetables are soft.
Serve the pot roast with the cooked vegetables and a drizzle of the flavorful broth.
Nutritional Benefits of Beef Round Steak
In addition to its versatility and flavor, beef round steak is packed with nutrients. As a lean cut of beef, it offers several health benefits while providing essential vitamins and minerals.
Key Nutritional Benefits
- High in Protein: Beef round steak contains approximately 23 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving, making it an excellent source of this essential macronutrient.
- Low in Fat: With only 5 grams of fat per serving, round steak is a healthy choice for those looking to cut back on fat while still enjoying red meat.
- Rich in Iron and Zinc: These important minerals help support the immune system, energy production, and cognitive function.
For more information on the nutritional benefits of beef, visit this guide on the health benefits of beef.
FAQs About Cooking Round Steak
How Long Should You Marinate Round Steak?
For the best results, marinate round steak for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. The longer the steak marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be.
Can You Grill Round Steak Without Marinating?
While you can grill round steak without marinating, it may be tougher. Marinating helps to tenderize the meat and add moisture, making it more enjoyable when grilled.
What is the Healthiest Way to Cook Round Steak?
The healthiest way to cook round steak is by slow cooking or braising, as both methods retain moisture without the need for excess oil. These methods also allow the natural flavors of the steak to shine without adding unnecessary fats.
Conclusion: The Best Way to Cook Round Steak So It Is Tender
In conclusion, the best way to cook round steak so it is tender depends on the method that suits your needs and preferences. Braising, slow cooking, and marinating are the top techniques that transform this lean cut of beef into a tender, flavorful meal. Whether you’re preparing a comforting pot roast or a quick grilled steak for fajitas, round steak offers versatility, flavor, and nutrition.
With the tips and recipes provided in this guide, you can confidently prepare round steak that’s tender and delicious, no matter the occasion.