Arcadian Cube Steak

Arcadian Cube Steak Recipe with Onion, Garlic, and Cajun Spice

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Arcadian Cube Steak is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings a touch of rustic charm to your dinner table. This recipe combines tender cube steak with a rich blend of spices, vegetables, and a savory sauce, creating a meal that's both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

History

The origins of Arcadian Cube Steak can be traced back to the Arcadia region, known for its pastoral landscapes and simple, yet delicious, culinary traditions. This recipe has evolved over time, incorporating local ingredients and cooking methods to create a dish that is both a nod to the past and a reflection of contemporary tastes. It embodies the spirit of Arcadian cooking, which emphasizes freshness, simplicity, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) cube steak
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tsp worcestershire sauce
cumin
salt
pepper
cajun spice
onion powder
garlic powder
2 cups of water
0.5 cup white wine
1 can white corn, drained
3 packages brown/onion gravy mix, prepared with water as directed on package
flour
2 tbsp olive oil
1 bay leaf

How to prepare

Sauté the onion in oil until it becomes clear.
Add the garlic and continue sautéing for another 2 minutes.
Sprinkle the steak with a rub made of salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and Cajun spice.
Sear the steak in olive oil until it is browned on both sides, approximately 2 minutes per side.
Add 2 cups of water and 0.5 cup of white wine to the cooker and stir briefly.
Add all the remaining ingredients.
Pressure cook in an electric pressure cooker for 15 minutes.
Serve with noodles or rice.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening the sauce.
Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
Substitute red wine for white wine for a deeper flavor.
Include a splash of cream for a richer sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Arcadian Cube Steak turns out perfectly, consider these tips and tricks:

- Tenderize the cube steak with a meat mallet before seasoning to ensure it cooks evenly and remains juicy.

- Sear the steak on high heat to lock in the flavors before pressure cooking.

- Deglaze the pan with white wine after searing the steak to incorporate all the browned bits into the sauce for added depth of flavor.

- Adjust the amount of Cajun spice according to your preference for heat.

- Allow the pressure cooker to release naturally to ensure the meat remains tender.

Serving Suggestions

Arcadian Cube Steak pairs beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe utilizes searing to enhance the flavor of the steak and pressure cooking to ensure it is tender and moist. Deglazing the pan with wine adds complexity to the sauce, while the blend of spices provides a robust seasoning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use beef broth instead of water for a richer flavor.

- Substitute cornstarch for flour for a gluten-free option.

- Replace white wine with chicken broth if you prefer to cook without alcohol.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the spice rub and chop the vegetables ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. The dish can also be cooked in advance and reheated, as the flavors will continue to develop and meld.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Arcadian Cube Steak on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Accompany with a side of your choice, arranged attractively for a visually appealing meal.

Pairing Recommendations

A medium-bodied red wine, such as Merlot or a lighter Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the steak. For beer lovers, a dark ale or stout complements the dish's robustness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Arcadian Cube Steak contains approximately 250 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option for a main course. This calorie count allows for flexibility in pairing the dish with sides without exceeding daily caloric needs.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being onions, garlic, and white corn. The total carbohydrate content per serving is approximately 15 grams, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

Arcadian Cube Steak contains a moderate amount of fat, primarily from the olive oil and the marbling within the cube steak. Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of fat, which contributes to the richness and mouthfeel of the dish.

Proteins

Cube steak is an excellent source of protein, and this dish provides a substantial amount to help meet your daily needs. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-building option for your meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12 from the steak, vitamin C from the onions, and iron from both the steak and the spices. It also contains smaller amounts of calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

Alergens

The primary allergens to be aware of in this recipe are gluten (from flour) and sulfites (from white wine). Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients can make substitutions as needed.

Summary

Overall, Arcadian Cube Steak is a balanced and nutritious dish, offering a good mix of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a suitable option for various dietary preferences.

Summary

Arcadian Cube Steak is a delightful dish that combines the simplicity of rustic cooking with rich, satisfying flavors. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious meal with your family, this recipe is sure to please. With its nutritious profile and versatile serving options, it's a wonderful addition to any meal plan.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Arcadian Cube Steak. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I had just finished helping my dear friend Mrs. Jenkins pick fresh vegetables from her garden. As a thank you, she invited me inside for a cup of tea and to share a recipe that she had recently discovered.

Mrs. Jenkins was a wonderful cook, and I always admired her ability to create delicious meals with simple ingredients. She handed me a worn piece of paper with the recipe written in her elegant cursive handwriting. The ingredients were simple: cube steak, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and a few basic seasonings. But it was the method of cooking that intrigued me the most.

She explained that the key to making the perfect Arcadian Cube Steak was in the slow simmering process. She recommended using a cast-iron skillet to sear the cube steak and then adding the vegetables and seasonings to create a rich and flavorful sauce. The steak would then be left to simmer for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a tender and juicy dish.

I was eager to try my hand at making the Arcadian Cube Steak, so I thanked Mrs. Jenkins for sharing the recipe and hurried home to gather the ingredients. As I prepared the dish, I could almost hear Mrs. Jenkins' reassuring voice guiding me through each step. I took my time, savoring the process of cooking and allowing the aromas to fill my kitchen.

As the dish simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. I knew that this recipe had the potential to become a family favorite, one that would be passed down through generations. When the time came to serve the Arcadian Cube Steak, I was filled with pride as my family gathered around the table to enjoy the delicious meal.

From that day on, the Arcadian Cube Steak became a staple in our household. I would often make it for Sunday dinners, special occasions, and whenever I wanted to treat my loved ones to a hearty and comforting meal. Each time I made the dish, I would think of Mrs. Jenkins and the wonderful gift she had given me - not just a recipe, but a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing good food with those we care about.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch with different seasonings and vegetables. But the essence of the dish remains the same - a hearty and flavorful meal that brings people together and creates lasting memories.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover the Arcadian Cube Steak, I am grateful for the friendships and experiences that have shaped my love for cooking. It is through sharing recipes and stories that we connect with others and create bonds that last a lifetime.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, preparing a meal for your loved ones, remember the power of a good recipe. It is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions - it is a story waiting to be shared and a memory waiting to be made. And who knows, you may just discover your own version of the Arcadian Cube Steak - a dish that will bring joy and comfort to those you hold dear.