master-cooks | The Tastiest Ways To Use A Top Round Steak

Top round steak is a versatile and lean cut of beef that can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes with the right techniques. One popular method is marinating the steak to enhance its flavor and tenderness, which works wonders when grilling. A bold marinade with ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and balsamic vinegar can infuse the meat with rich flavors. Another tasty approach is to slice the steak thinly against the grain and use it in stir-fries. The quick cooking method ensures the meat remains tender while absorbing the flavors of the sauce and vegetables. Additionally, top round steak can be used in slow-cooked dishes such as stews or pot roasts. When cooked slowly with aromatic herbs and a hearty broth, the steak becomes succulent and flavorful. For a simple yet satisfying meal, consider pan-searing the steak and serving it with a robust chimichurri sauce or a creamy mushroom sauce. Finally, the steak can be thinly sliced and used in sandwiches or wraps, paired with fresh greens and tangy dressings. Each method highlights the steak's ability to adapt to different cuisines while maintaining its distinct beefy essence.

Use top round to make swiss steak

You might not be familiar with Swiss steak, but it was a popular dish in the mid-20th century, and it's somewhat puzzling why it hasn't remained in the spotlight, especially given its ability to enhance less expensive cuts of meat. The term "Swiss steak" can be misleading, as it has no connection to Switzerland. Instead, it derives from the term "swissing," which refers to the method of tenderizing meat by pounding it with the spiky side of a meat mallet. This technique breaks down the tough muscle fibers, making the meat more tender. You may also encounter meat prepared this way labeled as "cube steak" in grocery stores.

To prepare Swiss steak, you begin with a swissed steak (who would have thought?). However, rather than cooking it quickly over high heat like you would with other steaks, you braise it. Braising involves slowly cooking the meat in a simmering liquid, and in this case, the swissed steak is simmered in a flavorful tomato and onion sauce. This method effectively combines two techniques for tenderizing — swissing and braising — making it ideal for tougher cuts. That's why Swiss steak recipes often call for top round or other cuts from the beef round primal.

Tenderize top round with a marinade

You can also prepare top round steaks over high heat using a cast iron skillet or grill, just like you would with other steak cuts. These techniques will create a lovely sear on the meat, making it ideal for those who enjoy a flavorful, charred crust. However, the challenge is that high-heat cooking methods can be harsh on lean cuts like bottom round, often resulting in tough, stringy steaks. To tackle this issue and achieve great results on the grill, marinating top round steaks is essential.

For an effective marinade, incorporate an acidic component such as red wine vinegar to help break down the tough muscle fibers. Aim to marinate the meat for at least four to six hours to ensure it becomes tender. After marinating, you can grill it just like any other steak, but be careful not to cook it beyond medium rare, as it will toughen if overcooked. Finally, slice your steaks as thinly as possible to make them easier to chew. With a bit of care, you can unlock incredible flavor from top round steaks — it just requires a gentle touch for this often-overlooked cut.

The Tastiest Ways To Use A Top Round Steak

Use top round to make swiss steak

Tenderize top round with a marinade

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