Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Swiss Steak?
Savory Swiss Steak is a comfort food dish consisting of tender cube steaks smothered in a rich brown gravy with aromatic onions.
What cut of beef is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses two pounds of cube steaks, which are cut into smaller serving sizes if necessary.
How should the cube steaks be prepared?
Season the steaks with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour and shake off any excess before browning.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 275 degrees Fahrenheit (135 degrees Celsius) for slow cooking.
How long does the Swiss Steak need to bake?
The steak should bake in the oven for one hour to allow the meat to become tender and the flavors to meld.
What type of skillet is best for this recipe?
A heavy 12-inch skillet, preferably cast iron with a tight-fitting lid, is recommended for both stovetop and oven use.
How do I make the rich brown gravy?
The gravy is made by creating a roux with flour and oil, adding diced onions, and then gradually whisking in beef stock and Worcestershire sauce.
What is a roux?
A roux is a mixture of flour and fat cooked over heat; in this recipe, it should be cooked to a deep golden color like peanut butter.
Why is the meat dredged in flour?
Dredging helps the meat brown better and provides the base for thickening the gravy later in the process.
Can I use beef bouillon instead of stock?
Yes, the recipe allows for the use of either beef stock or beef bouillon to create the gravy base.
What is the purpose of Worcestershire sauce in this dish?
Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, umami depth to the brown gravy.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This Savory Swiss Steak recipe yields between 4 and 6 servings.
What are the suggested side dishes for Swiss Steak?
It is best served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
How much onion is needed?
The recipe calls for one cup of diced onions to be cooked into the gravy.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 400 calories.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are approximately 30 grams of protein per serving.
What is the fat content of this dish?
One serving of Savory Swiss Steak contains about 20 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are approximately 37 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Should the skillet be covered while baking?
Yes, a tight-fitting lid is necessary when transferring the steaks to the oven to keep the moisture in.
How much oil is used for frying?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of vegetable oil for browning the steaks.
How long should the gravy simmer?
The gravy should simmer for 5 to 10 minutes to develop its flavor before the meat is returned to the pan.
What color should the roux reach?
The flour and oil mixture should be stirred until it reaches a deep golden color, similar to the shade of peanut butter.
Is this recipe suitable for winter?
Yes, it is described as a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort during chilly winter months.
Can I use a different type of oil?
While vegetable oil is specified, any high-smoke point oil suitable for frying can be used.
How much beef stock is required?
The recipe requires 3 cups of beef stock or broth.
Do I need to season the meat before dredging?
Yes, season the cube steaks lightly with salt and pepper before coating them in the flour.
What should I do with excess oil in the pan?
Remove excess oil after browning the meat, leaving about 1/3 cup to create the roux.
How much flour is used for dredging?
One cup of all-purpose flour is designated for dredging the steaks.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The provided nutritional information indicates there is no added sugar in this recipe.
Can this be made for a dinner party?
Yes, it is described as a culinary masterpiece that is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.