Poor Man's Steak
Poor Man's Steak Recipe - Amish Style with Onion and Mushroom
Introduction
Poor Man's Steak is a budget-friendly and delicious dish that is perfect for a hearty meal. Made with simple ingredients like hamburger meat, cracker crumbs, and mushroom soup, this recipe is easy to make and full of flavor.
History
Poor Man's Steak has been a popular dish in American households for decades. It originated during the Great Depression when families had to make do with what they had on hand. This recipe was created as a way to stretch ground beef and make it into a filling and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly and press the mixture onto a cookie sheet.
- Chill the mixture overnight to allow it to set.
- Cut the mixture into squares, coat them with flour, and brown both sides.
- Pour the soup over the meat mixture.
- Bake the mixture at 350°F (177°C) for 1 hour.
Variations
- Add diced bell peppers or garlic for extra flavor.
- Use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom soup for a different twist.
- Top with shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy finish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are well combined.
- Chilling the mixture overnight helps it to set and makes it easier to cut into squares.
- Browning the meat squares before baking adds a nice crust and extra flavor to the dish.
- Pouring the mushroom soup over the meat mixture adds moisture and richness to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Poor Man's Steak with mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Mixing the ingredients thoroughly
- Chilling the mixture overnight
- Browning the meat squares
- Baking with mushroom soup
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of hamburger meat.
- Crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs can be used instead of cracker crumbs.
- Any cream-based soup can be used instead of mushroom soup.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and chill it overnight before baking.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Poor Man's Steak on a platter with a drizzle of gravy and a sprinkle of parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Poor Man's Steak with a side salad and a glass of red wine for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Poor Man's Steak contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Poor Man's Steak contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Poor Man's Steak contains approximately 20 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Poor Man's Steak contains approximately 25 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Poor Man's Steak is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Alergens
This recipe contains gluten from the cracker crumbs. It may also contain soy and dairy from the mushroom soup.
Summary
Poor Man's Steak is a hearty and satisfying dish that is high in protein and iron. It is a great option for a budget-friendly meal.
Summary
Poor Man's Steak is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a budget-friendly meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a simple yet hearty dish called Poor Man's Steak. As a young girl growing up in the countryside, my family didn't have much money, so we often had to get creative with our meals. This recipe caught my eye because it used inexpensive ingredients that were easy to come by.
I first learned how to make Poor Man's Steak from my neighbor Mrs. Johnson. She was known in our small town for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I was lucky enough to be invited over to her house one afternoon to watch her prepare this dish. Mrs. Johnson explained to me that Poor Man's Steak was a budget-friendly alternative to traditional steak, made with ground beef and seasoned breadcrumbs.
As I watched Mrs. Johnson work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but be inspired by her passion for cooking. She taught me the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to season and marinate the meat properly. I soaked up every word she said and made mental notes of all her cooking techniques.
After Mrs. Johnson finished preparing the Poor Man's Steak, she invited me to sit down at the table with her and her family to enjoy the meal. As I took my first bite, I was blown away by the rich flavors and tender texture of the dish. It tasted just like a traditional steak, but at a fraction of the cost.
From that day on, Poor Man's Steak became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for my family on special occasions or just when we were craving a hearty meal. Over the years, I perfected the recipe and added my own personal touch, like a secret blend of herbs and spices that I learned from my own grandmother.
As I grew older, I continued to collect recipes from friends, family, and even strangers I met along the way. Each recipe held a special place in my heart, reminding me of the people and places that had influenced my culinary journey. But Poor Man's Steak remained one of my all-time favorites, a comforting reminder of my humble beginnings and the simple joys of a home-cooked meal.
Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope you will cherish it as much as I have. Remember to take your time when preparing the meat, letting it marinate and soak up all the delicious flavors. And don't forget to serve it with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables – just like Mrs. Johnson used to do.
I have no doubt that you will carry on the tradition of making Poor Man's Steak with love and care, passing it down to future generations as a symbol of our family's enduring bond. And who knows, maybe one day you will introduce it to someone new, sharing the recipe and the story behind it, just like I did with you.
So go ahead, my dear grandchild, and make yourself a batch of Poor Man's Steak. Let the aroma of sizzling meat and savory spices fill your kitchen, bringing warmth and comfort to your home just like it did for me all those years ago. And remember, no matter where life takes you, the simple pleasures of a home-cooked meal will always bring you back to your roots. Enjoy!