Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Cube Steak with Rich Gravy?
It is a comforting dish featuring tenderized cube steaks that are seasoned, pan-fried, and then simmered in a savory beef-based gravy.
What type of meat is used for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of cube steaks or tenderized steak, trimmed and pounded thin.
How should I prepare the flour coating?
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of flour with 1/2 teaspoon each of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
How do I ensure the steaks are coated correctly?
Take the steaks one at a time and thoroughly coat each side with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess before cooking.
What is used to fry the steaks?
The steaks are pan-fried in 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine over medium-high heat.
How long should I brown the cube steaks?
Cook the steaks for 5-10 minutes, turning once, until both sides are golden brown.
How do I start making the gravy?
After removing the browned steaks, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter in the skillet and stir in 2-3 tablespoons of the leftover seasoned flour.
What is a roux in this recipe?
A roux is the mixture of melted butter and flour cooked for one minute until bubbly, which acts as the thickening agent for the gravy.
How do I incorporate the beef broth?
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate the flavorful browned bits.
What should I do if the gravy is too thick?
If the gravy becomes too thick, simply add a small amount of water to reach your desired consistency.
How do I finish cooking the steaks?
Return the steaks to the skillet, submerge them in the gravy, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
What side dishes pair well with cube steak and gravy?
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, white rice, or egg noodles.
Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this for a slow cooker by browning the steaks first and then letting them simmer in the gravy on low for several hours.
Is margarine a suitable substitute for butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for either butter or margarine for both frying the meat and creating the gravy roux.
What seasonings are included in this dish?
The recipe uses a savory blend of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
How many ingredients are required?
There are 8 main ingredients: cube steaks, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, butter, and beef broth.
Why is it important to scrape the bottom of the pan?
Scraping the bottom (deglazing) releases the browned meat bits, which adds deep flavor and color to the rich gravy.
Can I use other types of broth?
While beef broth is recommended for a rich flavor, you could use vegetable broth or water in a pinch, though the taste will change.
How do I make the steaks more tender?
The 30-minute simmering period under a lid helps the meat become tender as it absorbs the moisture from the gravy.
Is this a kid-friendly meal?
Yes, its mild, savory flavor and soft texture make it a popular family-friendly choice.
Can I add vegetables to the gravy?
While not in the original recipe, many people enjoy adding sliced onions or mushrooms when making the roux.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
How should I reheat this dish?
Reheat slowly in a skillet on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the gravy has thickened too much in the fridge.
What does the garlic and onion powder add?
These spices provide a consistent savory base flavor to the flour coating and the final gravy.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for home cooks of various skill levels.
What is the texture of the steak?
Because it is tenderized and simmered, the steak should be soft and easy to cut.
How much flour is used in total?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of flour, split between coating the meat and thickening the gravy.
Should the skillet be covered during the simmer?
Yes, covering the skillet traps steam and ensures the steaks stay moist while the flavors meld.
What heat setting is used for the simmer?
The heat should be reduced to low for the 30-minute simmering stage.
Can I freeze Savory Cube Steak?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.