Crock Pot Cube Steak: Easy & Tender

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Crock pot cooking is a culinary dance, a slow, rhythmic process that transforms simple ingredients into extraordinary meals. Today, we’re taking this timeless technique to new heights, crafting a dish that’s a symphony of flavors, a testament to the power of cultural fusion.

Ingredients:

2 pounds cubed beef steak

  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 bell peppers, chopped
  • 10 ounces crimini mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can tomato soup
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Preparation Process:

    1. Searing the Steak: Begin by searing the cubed steak in a hot skillet with olive oil. This step is crucial, as it locks in the juices and imparts a rich, caramelized flavor.
    2. Assembling the Crock Pot: Transfer the seared steak to a slow cooker. Top with the chopped onion, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
    3. Creating the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, black pepper, and garlic powder. Pour this flavorful mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
    4. Slow Cooking to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become incredibly tender.

    Total Time Required:

    Prep Time: 30 minutes

  • Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)

  • Serving Ideas:

    Serve this hearty dish over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. For a gourmet touch, consider pairing it with roasted root vegetables or a side salad. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

    A Culinary Journey Across Cultures

    This recipe is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. It draws inspiration from various culinary traditions, each contributing its unique flavor profile:

    American Comfort Food: The slow-cooked, hearty nature of the dish is a nod to classic American comfort food.

  • Asian Influences: The soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce add a savory, umami-rich flavor, reminiscent of Asian cuisine.
  • Italian Accents: The use of crushed tomatoes and tomato soup brings in Italian flavors, creating a rich and tangy sauce.

  • As the flavors intertwine and the aromas fill the air, this dish becomes more than just a meal. It’s a culinary journey, a taste of the world, all contained within a single pot.