Delicious Swiss Steak Smothered in Tomato Sauce Recipe You Need to Try

Swiss steak is a beloved comfort food that many families have enjoyed for generations. The combination of tender beef, savory tomatoes, and aromatic spices creates a cozy meal perfect for family dinners or friendly gatherings. This blog post highlights a delightful Swiss steak smothered in tomato sauce recipe that you definitely want to make!

What is Swiss Steak?

Swiss steak isn’t originally from Switzerland. Rather, it’s a cooking method for tougher cuts of beef. The term "Swiss" comes from "swissing," which means to tenderize meat by pounding it and then braising it in a rich sauce. This cooking technique makes the meat tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

Typically, Swiss steak is made using round steak, a lean cut that becomes tender through slow cooking. Adding tomato sauce not only amplifies the flavor but also maintains moisture, ensuring a delicious dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients You Will Need

To prepare this scrumptiously tender Swiss steak with tomato sauce, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of round steak, cut into pieces (about 1-inch thick)

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour for dredging (gf rice flour if gluten friendly)

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 can (8 ounces) of tomato sauce

• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce (do not use if gluten friendly, but use another option like this one)

• 1 teaspoon of dried basil

• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

• Mashed Potatoes or White rice to compliment this dish

  
  

Preparing the Steak

Preparation is key to a great Swiss steak. Start by using a meat mallet to tenderize the round steak pieces gently. This step is important as it breaks down the fibers in the meat, making it more tender during the cooking process.

Next, season the meat with salt and pepper, then dredge each piece in flour, shaking off excess. This coating will create a delicious crust when seared and help thicken the sauce.

Searing the Steak

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the floured steak pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Sear each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, until they turn golden brown.

Once seared, remove the steak from the pan and set it aside. This step is crucial because the browned bits left in the pan will give the sauce its deep flavor.

Making the Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Then, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, and dried oregano. Stir everything, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will significantly enhance your sauce's flavor.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then return the seared steak to the skillet. Ensure the steak is submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender enough to pull apart easily with a fork.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Swiss steak is perfectly cooked, it's time to dig in! This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped parsley just before serving. The vibrant green will complement the deep red of the tomato sauce beautifully.

Tips for the Perfect Swiss Steak

1. Choose the Right Cut: Round steak is traditional, but consider using chuck steak or brisket for a different yet flavorful experience.

   
   

2. Don’t Rush the Cooking: The secret to tender Swiss steak lies in low-and-slow cooking. Allowing the meat to simmer for an extended period leads to the best results.

   
   

Savoring the Swiss Steak Experience

Swiss steak smothered in tomato sauce is a comforting dish that will surely impress your family and friends. With tender meat and harmonized flavors, it is a recipe that should be in your regular dinner lineup. In fact, many home cooks note that the flavor improves significantly after a day in the fridge. The melding of spices seems to deepen, enhancing the overall taste.

Whether you crave a hearty meal on a chilly evening or need a dish for a gathering, this Swiss steak recipe is a true winner. Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and savor a wonderful homemade meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Happy cooking!