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The Science Of Round Steak Oven Recipe
Before we dive into the details of preparing a delicious round steak oven recipe, let’s first understand the science behind it. Round steak is a cut of beef that comes from the primal cut of the round, also known as the rump. It’s a relatively tough cut of meat due to the muscles it comes from, which do a lot of work in the animal’s hindquarters.
However, with proper preparation and cooking techniques, round steak can transform into a tender and flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy. The key to tenderizing round steak is to break down the connective tissue and fibers in the meat. This can be achieved through slow cooking at a low temperature, adding moisture, and using acid or enzymes.
Selecting and Cleaning Round Steak
When selecting round steak, look for a cut that’s bright red and well-marbled. Marbling refers to the small flecks of fat that are scattered throughout the meat, which contribute to its tenderness and flavor. Avoid any cuts that have excessive amounts of fat or are discolored.
Before cooking, rinse the meat thoroughly with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This removes any unwanted debris or bacteria that may be present on the surface.
Preparing Round Steak for the Oven
Preparing round steak for the oven requires a few simple steps. First, season the meat with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning blend. You can also marinate the steak with a mixture of oil, vinegar, and spices for added flavor and tenderness.
Next, sear the steak in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side to develop a nice crust. This step is important as it locks in the juices and enhances the flavor of the meat. If you prefer not to sear the steak, you can skip this step and simply place it in the oven.
Oven Cooking Tips and Variations
There are several ways to cook round steak in the oven, each with their own benefits and variations. Here are a few tips and variations to consider:
Slow Roasting
Slow roasting is a traditional method of cooking round steak in the oven. Preheat the oven to 275°F and place the steak in a roasting pan or dutch oven. Add some liquid such as broth or wine to the pan, cover tightly with foil or a lid, and roast for 2-3 hours or until the meat is fork-tender. This method works best for thicker cuts of round steak.
Braising
Braising is a similar method to slow roasting, but the meat is first seared and then simmered in a flavorful liquid such as beer, tomatoes, or beef broth. This method is ideal for tougher cuts of round steak as it helps break down the connective tissue and fibers.
Stuffed Round Steak
For a unique and delicious twist, stuff your round steak with your favorite filling such as spinach and feta cheese or mushrooms and herbs. Roll up the steak and secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine before roasting it in the oven.
Sheet Pan Round Steak
For a quick and easy meal, try cooking your round steak on a sheet pan with your favorite vegetables and seasonings. Simply season the steak, place it on a sheet pan with vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or onions, and roast in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
Checking for Doneness
Checking for doneness is an essential step in cooking any cut of meat, including round steak. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For rare, aim for 135°F, medium rare 145°F, medium 160°F and well done 170°F.
It’s important to let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This helps ensure a juicy and flavorful final product.
Overcooking and Undercooking
Overcooking or undercooking round steak can result in a tough, chewy, or dry final product. To prevent overcooking, monitor the steak’s internal temperature and remove it from the oven when it reaches your desired level of doneness.
To prevent undercooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached the desired degree of doneness, and let the steak rest before slicing.
Recipe: Slow Roasted Round Steak
Now that we’ve covered the basics of round steak oven recipe, here’s a simple and delicious recipe to try at home!
Ingredients
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2 pounds round steak
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2 teaspoons salt
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup beef broth
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1/2 cup red wine
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2 sprigs fresh thyme
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2 sprigs fresh rosemary
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 275°F.
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Season the round steak with salt and pepper.
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side or until browned.
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Transfer the steak to a roasting pan or dutch oven.
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Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
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Pour the beef broth and red wine into the skillet and stir to combine.
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Pour the mixture over the round steak.
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Add the thyme and rosemary to the pan.
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Cover tightly with foil or a lid and roast for 2-3 hours or until fork-tender.
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Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
In conclusion, round steak oven recipe can be a delicious and healthy addition to your weekly meal plan. By understanding the food science behind the cut of meat and following proper cleaning, preparation, and cooking techniques, you can create a tender and flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you prefer slow roasting or braising, stuffed or on a sheet pan, round steak offers a variety of options for culinary creativity.
Sources
FAQS On Round Steak Oven Recipe
What Is A Round Steak Oven Recipe?
A round steak oven recipe refers to a cooking method where a round steak cut is prepared and cooked inside an oven. This method typically involves marinating the steak, seasoning it, and then baking it in the oven until it reaches the desired level of tenderness and doneness.
How Long Should I Marinate Round Steak Before Cooking It In The Oven?
It is generally recommended to marinate round steak for at least 2 to 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator to enhance its flavor and make it more tender. However, this duration can vary depending on personal preference and the specific marinade used.
What Temperature Should The Oven Be Set To When Cooking Round Steak?
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) or your desired cooking temperature. This temperature allows for even cooking and helps to achieve a nicely browned crust on the steak while ensuring the meat cooks evenly throughout.
How Long Should Round Steak Be Cooked In The Oven?
The cooking time for round steak in the oven may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, cook the steak for approximately 15 to 20 minutes per pound (450 grams) for medium-rare doneness. However, it’s crucial to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for perfect results. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
What Are Some Recommended Seasonings And Herbs For A Round Steak Oven Recipe?
Depending on your taste preferences, popular seasonings for round steak can include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Additionally, herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano can add depth and enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to suit your own personal taste.