Swiss Steak

Swiss Steak Recipe from Switzerland with Round Steaks, Flour, and Vegetables

Region / culture: Switzerland | Servings: 6

Introduction

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

History

Swiss Steak has been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades. The name "Swiss" is actually a misnomer, as the dish has no connection to Switzerland. The term "Swiss" likely refers to the method of tenderizing the meat by pounding it with a meat mallet, a technique that is also used in Swiss cuisine.

Ingredients

2.5 lb (1.13 kg) round steaks
0.25 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
0.25 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large onion, sliced
1 green pepper, sliced
1 (10.5 oz (298 g)) can condensed tomato soup
1 (16 oz (454 g)) can stewed tomatoes, undrained
1 (8 oz (227 g)) can mushroom pieces

How to prepare

Cut the meat into serving pieces.
In a small bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Coat the meat with the seasoned flour.
In a large skillet, brown the meat in hot oil.
Add the remaining ingredients.
Cover and simmer for 1 hour.
Serve with potatoes or wide noodles.

Variations

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy.
Substitute the round steaks with cube steaks for a quicker cooking time.
Add diced carrots and celery to the gravy for extra flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pound the round steaks with a meat mallet to tenderize the meat before cooking.

- Browning the meat before simmering it in the tomato and mushroom gravy will add depth of flavor to the dish.

- For a thicker gravy, you can add a cornstarch slurry to the sauce towards the end of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Swiss Steak pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or wide noodles. A side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad would also complement this dish nicely.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the Swiss Steak in a covered skillet allows the meat to become tender and absorb the flavors of the tomato and mushroom gravy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have round steaks, you can use chuck steaks or flank steak as a substitute. You can also use gluten-free flour if you have a gluten intolerance.

Make Ahead Tips

Swiss Steak can be prepared 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 Swiss Steak in a shallow bowl with a generous ladle of the tomato and mushroom gravy on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Swiss Steak with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. A side of crusty bread or garlic bread would also be a delicious addition to this meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Swiss Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Swiss Steak contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Swiss Steak contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Swiss Steak contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Swiss Steak contains approximately 35 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

Swiss Steak contains wheat (from the all-purpose flour) and soy (from the condensed tomato soup).

Summary

Swiss Steak is a well-rounded meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Swiss Steak is a classic dish that is sure to please the whole family. With its tender meat and flavorful gravy, this meal is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying dish with your favorite side dishes for a complete and delicious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Swiss Steak. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Margaret, who was known for her delicious home-cooked meals. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of savory meats and spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Margaret greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a plate of tender, juicy Swiss Steak. The meat was perfectly cooked, smothered in a rich tomato gravy with chunks of bell peppers and onions. I took one bite and instantly knew that this was a dish I needed to learn how to make.

I begged Margaret to share her recipe with me, but she only chuckled and said, "Oh, I learned this from my grandmother. It's a family secret." Determined to crack the code, I spent the rest of the afternoon watching Margaret cook, carefully noting down each ingredient and step.

After many failed attempts and burnt steaks, I finally perfected the recipe. The key, I discovered, was to marinate the meat in a mixture of Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs before searing it in a hot skillet. This gave the steak a deep, rich flavor that was complemented perfectly by the tangy tomato gravy.

Over the years, I have made this Swiss Steak recipe my own. I have added my own twists and variations, such as using different types of peppers or adding a splash of red wine for extra richness. Each time I cook this dish, I am transported back to that sunny day in Margaret's kitchen, learning the secrets of her family recipe.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of Swiss Steak from generation to generation. My grandchildren now beg me to cook it for them whenever they come to visit, just as I once begged Margaret for her secret recipe.

I have also learned that recipes, like memories, can be passed down and shared with others. Each time I cook Swiss Steak, I am reminded of the love and care that went into creating this dish, and the joy it brings to those who taste it.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a hearty, comforting meal, look no further than this recipe for Swiss Steak. It may have started as a family secret, but now it is a beloved tradition that I am proud to share with anyone who loves good food and good company. Bon appétit!