Introduction
This hearty and flavorful round steak dish is perfect for family dinners or any occasion that calls for a comforting meal. Cooked in an Instant Pot, this recipe combines tender steak with a savory gravy filled with vegetables and herbs. The combination of tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning adds depth to the dish, making it a satisfying option for any meat lover.
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
Prep time for this round steak recipe is approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 25 minutes under high pressure in the Instant Pot, followed by a natural pressure release. The total time including prep and cooking is around 45 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings.
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 to the bag 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 steak pieces on both sides in batches. Once browned, remove them from the pot and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, celery, carrot, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the carrots are tender.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pot
Turn off the Instant Pot. Pour in the beef broth, and deglaze the pot by scraping the bottom with a wooden spatula to remove any stuck bits.
Step 6: Add Flavoring Ingredients
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste.
Step 7: Return the Steak
Return the browned steak to the pot, pressing them into the sauce to ensure they are well coated.
Step 8: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
Step 9: Natural Pressure Release
Allow a natural pressure release. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the lid and take the steaks out of the pot.
Step 10: Thicken the Sauce (if necessary)
If the sauce needs thickening, add the cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water). Set the pot to sauté mode and cook, stirring continuously until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
Step 11: Serve
Serve the steaks topped with the rich gravy prepared in the pot.
Notes
Adjusting Seasoning
Feel free to adjust salt and pepper levels to cater to personal taste preferences.
Vegetable Variations
You can add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms based on what you have on hand.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Trimming and Slicing
Trim excess fat from the round steak before slicing it into one-inch-thick pieces. This helps in achieving better cooking results and enhances flavor absorption.
Coating the Steak
Use a gallon-sized bag to combine flour, salt, and pepper. Toss the steak pieces in the flour mixture for an even coating, which will help create a nice crust when browned.
Browning the Meat
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Brown the steak pieces in batches to develop a good flavor. This step enhances the dish’s overall taste.
Sautéing Vegetables
After browning the steak, add finely chopped onion, celery, carrot, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the carrots are tender. This builds a flavorful base for the dish.
Deglazing the Pot
Once sautéing is complete, pour in beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it. This removes any caramelized bits and adds depth to the sauce.
Pressure Cooking
After returning the browned steak to the pot, secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cooking on high pressure for 25 minutes allows the meat to become tender and absorb flavors.
Thickening the Sauce
To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Set the pot to sauté mode again, add the slurry, and stir until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, other cuts such as chuck roast or brisket can be used, but cooking times may vary.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
You can use a slow cooker or a stovetop pot; however, cooking times will differ significantly.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?
Consider adding additional herbs or spices, such as bay leaves or crushed red pepper, to the recipe for extra flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It also reheats well.
Conclusion
The round steak, when complemented by the flavorful medley of vegetables, herbs, and a rich broth, results in a hearty dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that is perfect for gatherings or a comforting family dinner. The Instant Pot allows for quick preparation, ensuring that you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the fruits of your labor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Steak Tacos
Use leftover cooked steak and shred it for flavorful tacos. Combine with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and your favorite salsa for a quick meal.
Stir-Fried Beef and Broccoli
Slice the round steak thinly and marinate in soy sauce. Stir-fry with broccoli, garlic, and ginger for a delicious Asian-inspired dish.
Beef Stroganoff
Transform the cooked steak into a creamy stroganoff by adding mushrooms, sour cream, and serving it over egg noodles or rice.
Beef and Vegetable Soup
Cut leftover steak into bite-sized pieces and add it to a pot with vegetable broth, mixed vegetables, and spices for a hearty soup.
Beef and Rice Casserole
Mix cooked steak pieces with cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and cheese. Bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole.
Steak Sandwiches
Slice the cooked steak thinly and serve on a crusty roll with sautéed onions and peppers. Top with cheese and broil until melted for a delicious sandwich.
