Cooking can sometimes feel intimidating, especially when it comes to preparing meat dishes that are tender, flavorful, and simply delectable. One such dish that often leaves cooks perplexed is cube steak. However, fear not, as we dive into the world of culinary magic with the Instant Pot. This article will guide you through the process of cooking cube steak in the Instant Pot, ensuring you deliver an outstanding meal every time.
What is Cube Steak?
Cube steak is a type of beef that has been tenderized and flattened through a process called “cubing.” This technique involves passing the meat through a machine that creates small indentations on its surface, which helps to break down connective tissues, resulting in a more tender bite. Primarily made from tougher cuts such as sirloin, round, or chuck, cube steak is perfect for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal without the premium price tag.
Why Cook Cube Steak in an Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more. When it comes to cooking cube steak, the Instant Pot offers several advantages:
Time Efficiency
Cube steak typically requires hours of slow cooking to become tender. However, the pressure cooking feature of the Instant Pot dramatically reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal in under an hour.
Tender Meat Every Time
The pressure cooker environment helps to trap steam and moisture, infusing the meat with flavor and resulting in a tender, juicy steak that melts in your mouth.
Flavor Infusion
Cooking in an Instant Pot allows for greater flavor absorption, enabling herbs, spices, and sauces to penetrate meats more thoroughly than traditional cooking methods.
Ingredients for Cooking Cube Steak in an Instant Pot
To create a succulent cube steak dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 to 4 cube steaks (about 1 pound total)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth (or stock)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Cube Steak in an Instant Pot
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s dive into the detailed step-by-step instructions on cooking cube steak in an Instant Pot.
Step 1: Seasoning the Cube Steaks
Begin by taking your cube steaks out of the packaging. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper according to your taste preference. This initial seasoning will help enhance the flavors of the meat.
Step 2: Searing the Cube Steaks
To achieve a rich, browning effect, you’ll want to sear your cube steaks. Here’s how:
- Plug in your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Allow it to heat up for a couple of minutes.
- Add the oil to the pot. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the seasoned cube steaks in the pot.
- Sear each steak for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they develop a nice golden-brown crust. Once done, remove the steaks from the pot and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same Instant Pot, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds a flavor base for your cube steak.
Step 4: Deglazing the Pot
To ensure no flavor is lost, it’s critical to deglaze the pot after sautéing:
- Pour in the beef broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, and if desired, the soy sauce. Stir well to combine this mixture.
Step 5: Pressure Cooking the Cube Steaks
With the flavor base prepared, it’s time to incorporate the cube steaks back into the pot:
- Return the seared cube steaks to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position.
- Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting, and adjust the cooking time to 25 minutes for tender steaks. For thicker cuts, you may want to increase the time slightly.
Step 6: Natural Release
After the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to undergo a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes. This method is preferable as it ensures the meat remains juicy and tender. After 10 minutes, you can manually release any remaining pressure.
Step 7: Thickening the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can easily achieve this with cornstarch:
- Remove the cube steaks from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
- Select the “Sauté” function again, and bring the liquid in the pot to a gentle boil.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Gradually stir this mixture into the boiling liquid, allowing it to thicken, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 8: Serving
Once your sauce has reached the desired thickness, return the cube steaks to the pot to soak up the flavorful gravy for a few more minutes. Then, serve the cube steak hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite seasonal vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Cube Steak in an Instant Pot
To elevate your cube steak game, consider these valuable tips:
Tip 1: Marinating
For even more flavor or tenderness, marinate your cube steaks for a few hours or overnight in your favorite marinade. A simple mixture of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and seasoning works wonders.
Tip 2: Using Tenderizer
If you’re working with particularly tough cuts, using a meat tenderizer can be beneficial before cooking.
Tip 3: Herbs and Spices
Don’t shy away from experimenting with different herbs and spices. Adding rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika can introduce delightful flavors to your dish.
Conclusion
Cooking cube steak in an Instant Pot is not only quick and easy but also results in a mouthwatering meal that’ll impress family and friends. By following the outlined steps and incorporating your own culinary flair, you can create a hearty dish that embodies comfort and flavor. So grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and start cooking your way to cube steak perfection today!
With its incredible efficiency and ability to produce tender, flavorful dishes, the Instant Pot is undoubtedly a game-changer for any home cook. Enjoy your delicious cube steak and the satisfaction of mastering this delightful dish!
What is cube steak, and how is it different from regular steak?
Cube steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized by pounding it with a meat mallet or run through a machine that produces small indentations on its surface. This process makes it more tender and palatable compared to regular steak cuts, which may not be as easy to chew. The tenderization also allows the meat to absorb flavors and sauces better during cooking.
In terms of flavor and texture, cube steak often has a robust beefy taste, making it great for recipes where the meat needs to soak up gravies or marinades. It’s usually made from tougher cuts, like the round or chuck, and is therefore more budget-friendly. This makes cube steak a popular choice for family meals and hearty dishes.
Can I cook cube steak from frozen in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook cube steak from frozen in your Instant Pot. The Instant Pot is designed to handle frozen meats effectively, thanks to its pressure cooking capabilities. When cooking from frozen, you’ll want to add extra cooking time to ensure that the meat cooks through properly. Typically, you’ll need to increase the cook time by about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak.
When cooking from frozen, it’s also important to ensure that the meat is not stuck together in one large clump. If necessary, you can run it under warm water just to separate the pieces before placing them in the Instant Pot. Adding a bit of liquid for steaming is essential, as it creates the necessary pressure for the cooking process.
What cooking liquids are best for cube steak in the Instant Pot?
When cooking cube steak in the Instant Pot, it’s best to use flavorful liquids such as beef broth, stock, or even a combination of broth and wine. These liquids not only help to create the steam necessary for pressure cooking but also enhance the overall flavor of the dish. For a richer taste, feel free to add sauces like Worcestershire, soy sauce, or even barbecue sauce.
You can also consider adding aromatics like onions, garlic, and herbs to the cooking liquid. This will infuse the cube steak with additional layers of flavor while it cooks. Just remember to adjust the seasoning according to the salt content in the liquids you choose to use, so that your dish remains balanced and flavorful.
How long should I cook cube steak in the Instant Pot?
The general cooking time for cube steak in the Instant Pot is about 15 to 20 minutes under high pressure. However, if you’re cooking from frozen, you should aim for a duration of 20 to 25 minutes to ensure thorough cooking. Once the cooking cycle is complete, it’s best to allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before performing a quick release to remove any remaining pressure.
It’s important to keep in mind that thickness can affect cooking time. Thicker cuts may require additional time, while thinner ones can be cooked for a shorter duration. Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer, where a safe internal temperature for beef should be around 145°F (63°C).
Can I use a different cooking method instead of pressure cooking?
Yes, while the Instant Pot is a fantastic option for cooking cube steak, you can also use other methods like braising, frying, or even slow cooking. For braising, you would brown the steak in a skillet with a bit of oil, then add your chosen cooking liquid and cover to simmer slowly until tender. This method will yield flavorful results, though it will take longer than pressure cooking.
If you prefer using the slow cooker, you can cook cube steak on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 3 to 4 hours. This method allows the meat to become exceptionally tender as it cooks in its own juices, which can be a great alternative if you have more time to prepare your meal.
What are some common seasonings to use with cube steak?
Cube steak pairs well with a variety of seasonings that enhance its rich beef flavor. Salt and pepper are essential, but you can also experiment with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for an added kick. If you enjoy a bit of heat, cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can be incorporated for a spicy twist.
Additionally, herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano can complement the dish beautifully, especially if you’re cooking it in a savory gravy. Marinating the steak beforehand with a blend of seasonings, vinegar, or citrus juice can also tenderize the meat further while adding depth to the flavor profile.