Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal, this round steak recipe is just the ticket. Tender pieces of beef are combined with a rich gravy made from vegetables, beef broth, and tomatoes, creating a delicious harmonious blend of flavors. The recipe is simple and perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner. Thanks to the Instant Pot, this dish comes together with minimal fuss, allowing you to enjoy a homemade feast in no time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 pounds round steak
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1½ cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 15-ounce can diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Prep Time
Approximately 20 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes on high pressure
Total Time
Around 50 minutes, including pressure release time
Yield
Serves 4-6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Trim excess fat from the round steak and slice it into one-inch-thick pieces.
Step 2: Coat the Steak
In a gallon-sized bag, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Add the steak pieces and toss to coat them evenly.
Step 3: Brown the Steak
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Brown the coated steaks on both sides in batches. Once browned, remove the steaks and set them aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, celery, carrot, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the carrots are tender.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pot
Turn off the Instant Pot. Pour in the beef broth and use a wooden spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
Step 6: Add Other Ingredients
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste until well combined.
Step 7: Combine Steak and Sauce
Return the browned steaks to the pot, pressing them into the sauce so they are mostly submerged.
Step 8: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid, set the valve to the sealing position, and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
Step 9: Release the Pressure
After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally. Once the pressure is fully released, remove the lid.
Step 10: Thicken the Sauce (if necessary)
If the sauce is too thin, remove the steaks. Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, add it to the pot, and stir. Set the pot to sauté mode and simmer the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 11: Serve
Serve the steaks topped with the thickened gravy.
Notes
Note 1: Steak Selection
Choose a good quality round steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
Note 2: Adjusting Thickness
Adjust the amount of cornstarch based on how thick you prefer the gravy.
Note 3: Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
Serve the dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Cook techniques
Trimming and Cutting Meat
It’s important to trim excess fat from the round steak to prevent a greasy finished dish. Slice the meat into one-inch-thick pieces for even cooking.
Coating Meat
Using a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper to coat the steak helps create a flavorful crust when searing, contributing to a nice texture and rich flavor.
Browning
Searing the coated steak in olive oil creates a Maillard reaction, enhancing the flavor through caramelization. This step is crucial for depth of flavor in your final dish.
Sautéing Aromatics
Cooking the chopped onion, celery, carrot, and garlic until the onion is translucent allows the flavors to meld, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
Deglazing
Pouring in beef broth and scraping the bottom of the pot helps incorporate the flavorful browned bits into the sauce, ensuring no flavor is wasted.
Pressure Cooking
Using the Instant Pot at high pressure helps tenderize the steak quickly while infusing it with flavors from the sauce. This method reduces cooking time significantly compared to traditional methods.
Thickening Sauce
If necessary, using a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce after cooking allows for control over the final consistency without altering the flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can substitute other cuts like chuck roast or flank steak, but cooking times may vary as different cuts can have different tenderness.
Is it necessary to brown the meat?
While not strictly necessary, browning the meat enhances flavor and creates a more appealing color and texture.
Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker; simply follow the same method for browning and sautéing, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
The round steak prepared in this recipe transforms into a tender and flavorful dish, with the combination of hearty vegetables and rich broth creating a comforting meal. The thickened gravy adds a delicious finish that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Steak Fajitas
Thinly slice cooked steak and sauté it with bell peppers and onions. Serve with warm tortillas, avocado, and salsa for a vibrant meal.
Beef Stroganoff
Add mushrooms and cream to the cooked steak mixture, then serve over egg noodles for a creamy and comforting dish.
Chili Beef Stew
Incorporate kidney beans and bell peppers into the sauce for a hearty chili. Serve it with cornbread for a satisfying meal.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use leftover steak mixed with rice and spices to fill bell peppers and bake them until tender for a nutritious and colorful dish.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Cut the steak into thin strips and stir-fry with broccoli, soy sauce, and garlic for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.
Taco Salad
Shred cooled steak and serve over a bed of lettuce with toppings like tomatoes, cheese, avocado, and your favorite dressing for a refreshing salad.
