Unlock the secrets of slow cooking with this dish that transforms inexpensive cube steaks into tender, flavorful treats. Slow Cooker Cube Steaks with Gravy is a comfort food masterpiece that marries the ease of a slow cooker with the rich flavor of homemade gravy. With each melt-in-your-mouth bite, this meal promises to warm your heart and satisfy your palate.
Ingredients:
- 4 cube steaks
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for gravy)
- 1/4 cup cold water (for gravy)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Flour Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Coating the Steaks: Dredge each cube steak in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Gently shake off any excess flour.
3. Searing the Steaks: In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Sear the coated cube steaks on each side until they’re golden brown. This step adds flavor and helps seal in the juices.
4. Slow Cooker Set-Up: Place the sliced onion in the bottom of your slow cooker. Lay the seared cube steaks over the onions.
5. Flavorful Mix: In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Pour this mixture over the cube steaks in the slow cooker.
6. Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the cube steaks are tender and fully cooked.
7. Gravy Preparation: About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the gravy. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the cold water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and gently stir to combine. Cover and let the gravy thicken for the remaining cooking time.
8. Plating Magic: Serve the Slow Cooker Cube Steaks with Gravy over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side. Spoon some of the flavorful gravy over the steaks, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
9. Comforting Enjoyment: With each bite of these tender cube steaks, you’ll relish the harmonious blend of savory meat and rich gravy that was patiently developed through the slow cooking process.
Conclusion: Slow Cooker Cube Steaks with Gravy is a testament to the art of slow cooking, transforming humble cube steaks into a comforting masterpiece. The tender meat and flavorful gravy create a symphony of tastes that warm both body and soul. Whether served as a weekday dinner or a comforting Sunday meal, this dish invites you to experience the pleasure of comfort food done right.