Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Savory Dunkable Steak Sandwich?
It is a flavorful sandwich made with seasoned beef cube steak on toasted French bread, served with a side of savory gravy for dipping.
What cut of meat is recommended for this recipe?
Beef cube steak is recommended because it is budget-friendly and tenderizes well when cooked quickly.
How do I prepare the cube steak?
Trim the meat and pound it thin if necessary, then fry it in butter for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
How is the dipping gravy made?
After cooking the steaks, drain the fat, then stir in water and instant beef bouillon into the skillet to dissolve.
What kind of bread works best?
Fresh French bread is ideal for its texture, but hamburger buns also work well for these sandwiches.
Do I need to use Swiss cheese?
No, Swiss cheese is optional, but it adds a nice melted layer of flavor to the steak sandwich.
How do I season the bread?
Spread butter on the cut sides of the bread and sprinkle with garlic salt before toasting in the oven.
At what temperature should I toast the bread?
Set your oven to 550 degrees Fahrenheit or use the broiler setting for the best results.
How close should the bread be to the broiler?
Position the baking sheet approximately 4 inches from the heat source to get a perfect toast.
How long does toasting the bread take?
It usually takes 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent the bread from burning.
Can I use beef broth instead of bouillon?
Yes, you can substitute the water and bouillon with about 1/3 cup of prepared beef broth.
Is this recipe budget-friendly?
Yes, it uses simple, affordable ingredients like cube steak and bouillon to create a satisfying meal.
What seasoning is used for the steak?
The steak is seasoned with simple salt and pepper while it cooks in the skillet.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used for both frying the steak and spreading on the bread.
How many steaks go on each sandwich?
Each sandwich typically features two cooked cube steaks on a piece of toasted bread.
Can I add onions to the recipe?
Absolutely, sautรฉed onions would be a delicious addition to the steak or the dipping gravy.
What is the best way to serve the gravy?
Pour the warm gravy into small individual bowls so each person can easily dunk their sandwich.
Can I make this with chicken?
While designed for steak, you could use thin chicken cutlets and chicken bouillon for a different variation.
How do I prevent the steak from being chewy?
Make sure it is pounded thin and cooked quickly over medium-high heat to develop a crust without overcooking.
Is garlic salt necessary?
Garlic salt adds a specific savory flavor to the bread, but you can use plain salt or garlic powder if preferred.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, provolone, cheddar, or monterey jack would also be excellent choices for this sandwich.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the steak and bread separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How do I reheat the steak?
Reheat the steak in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until just warmed through to keep it tender.
Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gravy and reheat it on the stove when you are ready to serve the sandwiches.
What side dishes go well with these sandwiches?
French fries, potato chips, or a simple side salad pair perfectly with these savory steak sandwiches.
Is this a heavy meal?
It is a hearty comfort food meal, perfect for a filling lunch or a satisfying dinner.
Can I use garlic butter instead of butter and salt?
Yes, pre-made garlic butter is a great shortcut for seasoning and toasting the bread.
What exactly is cube steak?
Cube steak is a cut of beef, usually top round, that has been tenderized by a mechanical tenderizer.
Can I serve this without the dunking gravy?
Yes, but the gravy is a signature part of the experience and adds significant moisture and flavor.
How do I know when the steak is done?
It should have a golden brown crust on both sides and be cooked through, taking about 6 minutes total.