Savory Swiss Steak

Savory Swiss Steak Recipe from Switzerland | Ingredients: Round Steak, Onion Soup Mix, Tomato Sauce and More

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2-3 hours | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Savory Swiss Steak is a classic comfort food dish that features tender round steak smothered in a rich tomato and onion gravy. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion meal.

History

Swiss steak is a dish that originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It is believed to have been inspired by traditional Swiss cooking techniques, which involve slow-cooking tough cuts of meat in a flavorful sauce. Over time, Swiss steak has become a popular dish in American cuisine, with many variations and adaptations.

Ingredients

3 tbsp of oil
2 lb (907 g) of round steak, 1 inch thick
0.25 cup of Atkin's bake mix
1 envelope of dry Lipton's onion soup mix
0.5 tsp of garlic powder
8 oz (227 g) of Hunt's tomato sauce
water

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Heat oil in a heavy frying pan.
Pound the steak on both sides with a heavy meat mallet, and cut it into serving size pieces.
Combine the bake mix and garlic, and pound it into the meat pieces.
Fry the meat in hot oil until it is browned on all sides.
Layer the meat in a 13x9x2 baking dish and sprinkle the soup mix over it.
Mix the tomato sauce and 0.25 cup of water, and pour it over everything.
Cover the dish tightly with foil.
Bake for 2–3 hours until the meat is tender.
Check the dish every hour, as you may need to add water.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different seasonings such as Italian herbs or smoked paprika to change up the flavor profile of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to pound the steak to tenderize it before cooking.

- Browning the meat before baking helps to seal in the juices and add flavor.

- Check the dish periodically while baking to ensure that there is enough liquid in the pan to keep the meat moist.

- Serve the Swiss steak with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious gravy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Savory Swiss Steak with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for Savory Swiss Steak include pounding the meat, browning it in a pan, and slow-baking it in the oven to ensure tenderness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Atkin's bake mix, you can use regular flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent.

- You can use beef broth or red wine in place of water for added flavor in the gravy.

Make Ahead Tips

Savory Swiss Steak can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Savory Swiss Steak in a shallow bowl with a generous spoonful of gravy on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Savory Swiss Steak with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A glass of red wine or a cold beer complements the rich flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Savory Swiss Steak 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

Each serving of Savory Swiss Steak contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Savory Swiss Steak contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Savory Swiss Steak contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Savory Swiss Steak contains approximately 40 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Savory Swiss Steak is a good source of iron, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and soy allergens.

Summary

Savory Swiss Steak is a hearty and satisfying dish that is high in protein and iron. It is a great option for a balanced meal.

Summary

Savory Swiss Steak is a classic dish that is sure to please the whole family. With tender meat, flavorful gravy, and hearty sides, this recipe is a winner for any occasion. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. I remember it like it was yesterday, even though it was many years ago. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha, who lived on a farm just outside of town.

As soon as I walked into Martha's kitchen, I was greeted by the most incredible aroma. It was the smell of her savory Swiss steak cooking on the stove. I had never tasted anything like it before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Martha smiled as she saw the look of delight on my face. "Would you like to learn how to make this dish, dear?" she asked.

I eagerly nodded, and Martha began to show me the ingredients and steps to make her delicious Swiss steak. She explained how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.

The key to making a truly flavorful Swiss steak, Martha told me, was in the seasoning. She showed me how to marinate the beef in a blend of herbs and spices, including garlic, onion, and paprika. She also added a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

As the steak cooked on the stove, Martha shared stories of her grandmother and their family traditions. She told me how her grandmother used to make Swiss steak for special occasions, like birthdays and holidays. The dish was always a favorite among family and friends, and Martha was proud to carry on the tradition.

After a couple of hours of simmering, the Swiss steak was ready to serve. Martha plated it up with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. The first bite was pure bliss – the tender beef, rich gravy, and fragrant spices all melded together perfectly.

From that day on, Swiss steak became a staple in my own recipe collection. I would often make it for Sunday dinners with my own family, and it never failed to impress. The dish had a way of bringing everyone together around the table, just like it did for Martha's family.

Over the years, I have tweaked Martha's original recipe to make it my own. I've experimented with different cuts of beef, added in extra vegetables, and even tried cooking it in a slow cooker for a more hands-off approach. But no matter how I make it, the essence of Martha's Swiss steak is always there – comforting, flavorful, and made with love.

I often think back to that rainy afternoon in Martha's kitchen and how it changed my life. Not only did I gain a wonderful recipe, but I also gained a dear friend and a connection to my own family history. I am forever grateful for that moment of discovery and the delicious dish that came from it.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a hearty and comforting meal, look no further than my savory Swiss steak recipe. It's a taste of tradition, a touch of nostalgia, and a whole lot of flavor. Enjoy!