Tips and Methods for Cooking Cube Steak to Perfection

Cube steak can sometimes get a bad rap for being tough and flavorless. With the right techniques, though, this economical cut can be transformed into fork-tender and delicious meals the whole family will love. Cube steak just needs a little TLC! Read on for tips on choosing, preparing and cooking cube steak using simple methods like braising, pan frying and breading.

Pick the Right Cube Steak

Look for thin cut cube steaks approximately 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 inch thick. Uniformly thin steaks will cook fast and even. Avoid those labeled "minute steak". Shoot for 4-6 ounce steaks.

Even Thinness

Cube steak is pounded to a uniform thinness. This allows it to cook through quickly and absorb flavors.

Tenderize with Acidic Marinade

Soaking cube steak in an acidic marinade for 30 min up to overnight helps tenderize the meat. Try vinegar, citrus juice, yogurt or wine based marinades.

Let It Soak

Give marinade time to break down tough muscle fibers. At least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal.

Pan Sear for Rich, Browned Flavor

Get a skillet very hot. Coat steaks with oil or seasoning and sear 2-3 minutes per side to develop a nice crust. The Maillard reaction equals flavor!

Smoking Hot Skillet

Use high heat to quickly brown and firm up the exterior of cube steaks before they overcook.

Braise Low and Slow in Sauce

For tender cube steak, braise in flavorful liquid like beef broth, onion soup mix, tomatoes etc. Simmer gently for 1-2 hours until fork tender perfection.

Melt-In-Your-Mouth Goodness

Low, moist heat breaks down tough connective tissues into succulent, super tender meat.

Bread and Pan Fry for Crispy Coating

For next level cube steak, coat in flour, egg and breadcrumbs. Pan fry in oil over medium-high heat until golden, flipping halfway, approximately 4 minutes total.

Crunchy Crust

The crispy breading adds great texture contrast to the tender cube steak inside.

Check Doneness and Let Rest

Test doneness by cutting into center of steaks. Remove from heat at 160°F for medium doneness. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Be Patient!

Allowing cube steak to rest keeps juices locked in, instead of spilling out when sliced.

FAQs

What is cube steak?

It's round or top sirloin steak tenderized by pounding to an even thickness.

Is cube steak tough?

Not if you braise it low and slow or bread/fry it. Proper methods make it tender.

What's the best way to cook cube steak?

Braising, frying and breading are all great methods that result in tender meat.

What temperature for doneness?

145°F for medium rare, up to 160°F for medium. Avoid overcooking.

Can you marinate cube steak?

Yes! Acidic marinades help tenderize while adding flavor.

In Summary

With appropriate preparation using marinades, plus cooking methods like braising, pan frying or breading, cube steak can become a delicious and economical dinner option. The keys are not to overcook, and use cuts of uniform thickness. Just a little TLC!