Italian Steak and Rice

Italian Steak and Rice Recipe - Authentic & Flavorful

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Italian Steak and Rice is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender round steak with a flavorful tomato sauce, mushrooms, and savory seasonings. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Italian Steak and Rice is a classic Italian-American dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It combines the flavors of Italy with the heartiness of American cuisine, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1 cup chopped onion
2 tbsp butter or margarine, divided
1 10-0.5 oz (14 g) can tomato puree
2 cups beef broth
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp oregano
1.5 lb (680 g) boneless beef round steak
0.5 cup dry sherry
1 4 oz (113 g) can sliced mushrooms, drained
3 cups hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Cook the onion in 1 tbsp of butter until it becomes tender.
Add tomato puree, broth, garlic powder, sugar, and oregano. Let it simmer for 20 minutes.
In the meantime, cut the steak into strips measuring about 0.5x3 inches. Season them with salt and pepper.
Brown the steak in the remaining 1 tbsp of butter.
Add sherry and mushrooms. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
Stir in tomato sauce, cover, and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
Serve over fluffy rice.

Variations

Add bell peppers or olives to the sauce for extra flavor.
Use chicken or pork instead of steak for a different twist.
Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for a cheesy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the steak well before adding the tomato sauce to develop rich flavor.

- Use a good quality beef broth for the best results.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more garlic powder, sugar, or oregano as needed.

- Serve the dish over hot cooked rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Steak and Rice can be served with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs well with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Cooking Techniques

Italian Steak and Rice is cooked using a combination of sautéing, simmering, and braising techniques to develop rich flavors and tender meat.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of margarine for a healthier option.

- Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version.

- Use fresh mushrooms instead of canned for a more intense flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Italian Steak and Rice can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Italian Steak and Rice in a large serving dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Garnish with a lemon wedge for a touch of brightness.

Pairing Recommendations

Italian Steak and Rice pairs well with a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for dipping in the sauce. It also goes well with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Italian Steak and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Italian Steak and Rice contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

Italian Steak and Rice contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Italian Steak and Rice contains approximately 15 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Italian Steak and Rice contains approximately 30 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Italian Steak and Rice is a good source of iron, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

Italian Steak and Rice contains dairy (butter) and gluten (from the rice). It may also contain soy (from the margarine).

Summary

Italian Steak and Rice is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is a satisfying and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Italian Steak and Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender round steak with a rich tomato sauce, mushrooms, and savory seasonings. This classic Italian-American recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal with a side of fluffy rice for a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Italian Steak and Rice. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy little cottage in the Italian countryside. Maria was known for her amazing cooking skills, and she always had a new recipe up her sleeve to share with me.

On that particular day, Maria had planned to make a special dinner for us, and I could already smell the mouth-watering aromas wafting from her kitchen. As I walked in, I saw her busy at work, chopping up fresh tomatoes and garlic, and marinating a beautiful cut of steak in a mixture of olive oil, herbs, and spices.

Curious as always, I asked Maria what she was making, and she simply smiled and replied, "Italian Steak and Rice, a family recipe passed down through generations." I was intrigued and eager to learn more, so I offered to help her in the kitchen.

As we worked together, Maria shared the story behind the recipe with me. She told me that her grandmother had taught her how to make it when she was just a little girl, and that it was a staple in their family for special occasions and gatherings.

The key to the dish, Maria explained, was the marinade for the steak. It was a simple blend of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, rosemary, and a touch of red pepper flakes for some heat. The steak needed to marinate for at least an hour to soak up all the flavors before being seared to perfection on a hot grill.

While the steak was cooking, Maria prepared the rice, using a traditional Italian method that involved toasting the grains in butter before adding in a mixture of chicken broth, tomatoes, and herbs. The result was a fragrant and fluffy rice that perfectly complemented the juicy and flavorful steak.

Once everything was ready, Maria plated the dish with a generous serving of rice topped with slices of the succulent steak. The colors and aromas were so inviting, I couldn't wait to dig in.

With the first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The steak was tender and bursting with flavor, while the rice was creamy and comforting. The combination of the two was a match made in culinary heaven, and I savored every bite.

As I enjoyed the meal, Maria and I chatted about our shared love of cooking and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones. It was a moment I would always treasure, and I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

After that day, I made Italian Steak and Rice for my family and friends whenever I wanted to impress them with a taste of Italy. Each time I cooked it, I remembered Maria and her warm hospitality, and I felt grateful for the culinary wisdom she had passed down to me.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing this beloved recipe once again, I can't help but smile and think back to that sunny day in Maria's cottage. The memories are as delicious as the dish itself, and I am grateful for the bonds of friendship and food that connect us all. Grazie, Maria, for teaching me the art of Italian Steak and Rice.