How to Cook Cube Steak on the Stove: A Comprehensive Guide
Cooking cube steak on the stove is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and affordable meal. Cube steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized by pounding it with a meat mallet. This process creates small cubes in the steak, which allows it to absorb marinade and cook evenly.
Cube steak can be cooked in a variety of ways, but the stovetop method is one of the simplest and most effective. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of cooking cube steak on the stove, including tips and expert advice to help you achieve perfect results.
Tenderizing Cube Steak
Before you cook cube steak, it is important to tenderize it properly. This will help to break down the tough fibers in the meat and make it more tender and juicy. There are a few different ways to tenderize cube steak, but the most common method is to pound it with a meat mallet.
To pound the steak, place it between two pieces of plastic wrap or wax paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the steak until it is about 1/4-inch thick. Be sure to pound the steak evenly, so that it cooks evenly. Once the steak is tenderized, you can proceed to cook it on the stove.
Seasoning Cube Steak
Once the steak is tenderized, it is time to season it. You can use any spices or seasonings that you like, but some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. You can also use a pre-made steak seasoning mix if you prefer.
To season the steak, simply sprinkle the spices or seasonings over both sides of the meat. Be sure to rub the seasonings in well, so that they adhere to the steak. Let the steak sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking, so that the seasonings have time to penetrate the meat.
Cooking Cube Steak on the Stove
Now that the steak is seasoned, it is time to cook it on the stove. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a little oil or butter to the pan, and then add the steak. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is cooked to your desired doneness.
If you are cooking the steak for more than one person, you may need to cook it in batches. Be sure to let the pan heat up again before adding each new batch of steak. Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips and Expert Advice
Here are a few tips and expert advice to help you cook the perfect cube steak on the stove:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the steak is cooked to your desired doneness. The internal temperature of the steak should be 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare, 160 degrees Fahrenheit for medium, and 170 degrees Fahrenheit for well-done.
- Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy piece of meat.
- Serve the steak with your favorite sides. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about cooking cube steak on the stove:
- What is the best way to tenderize cube steak?
The best way to tenderize cube steak is to pound it with a meat mallet. This will break down the tough fibers in the meat and make it more tender and juicy. - What are some good spices to use for seasoning cube steak?
Some popular spices to use for seasoning cube steak include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. You can also use a pre-made steak seasoning mix if you prefer. - How long should I cook cube steak on the stove?
Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is cooked to your desired doneness.
Conclusion
Cooking cube steak on the stove is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and affordable meal. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can achieve perfect results every time. So next time you are looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, give cube steak a try.
Is this topic of interest to you?
