Cooker’s Swiss Steak Recipe

Instructions

1. Prep the beef:
   • Dredge each piece of round steak in the seasoned flour, ensuring an even coating.
2. Sear the steak:
   • In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the round steak pieces until they are golden brown on both sides. Transfer the seared steak to the slow cooker.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In the same skillet, sauté sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic until softened and aromatic. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Build the base:
   • Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine, ensuring the steak pieces are well-coated.
5. Slow Cook Magic:
   • Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors have melded into a rich, hearty stew.
6. Create the Gravy:
   • In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux. Cook until the mixture is golden brown.
7. Thicken the sauce:
   • Ladle a cup of the slow cooker liquid into the roux, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Once smooth, pour the roux mixture back into the slow cooker and stir well. Allow the sauce to thicken.
8. Serve and enjoy:
   • Serve the Swiss steak over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice, spooning the rich gravy over the top.

Cook Notes

• Beef Selection: Choose a well-marbled round steak for optimal tenderness. The slow cooking process will transform it into a melt-in-your-mouth delight.
• Vegetable Harmony: The combination of onions and bell peppers not only adds flavor but also contributes vibrant colors to the dish. Feel free to add mushrooms or carrots for additional depth.
• Thickening Tips: If the gravy needs further thickening, create a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of flour with a bit of the cooking liquid before adding it back to the slow cooker.

Variations for Culinary Creativity

1. Herb Infusion:
   • Experiment with different herb combinations, such as rosemary and thyme or basil and parsley, to tailor the flavor profile to your liking.
2. Wine Elegance:
   • Enhance the richness of the sauce by adding a splash of red wine during the slow cooking process. Choose a wine that complements the beef, like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.
3. Balsamic Bliss:
   • Introduce depth with a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity and complexity in the sauce.
4. Root Vegetable Extravaganza:
   • Include chunks of root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for added sweetness and texture.

Keto and Low-Carb Adaptations

Keto Version:

• Almond Flour Coating: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour for dredging the beef.
• Vegetable Choices: Opt for low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and garlic, and minimize the use of carrots.

Low-Carb Version:

• Cauliflower Mash: Serve the Swiss steak over a bed of cauliflower mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes.
• Thicken with Xanthan Gum: Substitute flour with xanthan gum to thicken the gravy, keeping the carb count lower.

As you savor the tender bites of our Slow Cooker Swiss Steak, relish in the simplicity and depth that slow cooking imparts to this classic dish. The melding of flavors, the fork-tender beef, and the rich, savory gravy are a testament to the magic that can unfold in your kitchen. This recipe isn’t just about nourishment; it’s about creating a culinary experience that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. So, from the initial sear to the final ladle of gravy over a bed of mashed potatoes, let the Slow Cooker Swiss Steak become a cherished chapter in your culinary journey. May each bite be a reminder of the joy found in the art of slow cooking, transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary moments around the table.