How to cook braising steak in the oven
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal, braising steak is a perfect choice. This cooking method involves slow-cooking tougher cuts of meat in liquid in order to tenderize them and bring out their rich flavors. Braising steak in the oven is a great option, as it allows the meat to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in tender and flavorful results.
Step 1: Choose the Right Cut of Beef
When it comes to braising steak, it’s important to choose the right cut of beef. Tougher cuts with more connective tissue, such as chuck, blade, or brisket, are ideal for this cooking method. These cuts are less expensive and become tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow.
If you can, try to find grass-fed or organic beef, as it tends to have a more pronounced flavor and is generally raised in a more sustainable and ethical manner.
Step 2: Season the Meat
Before braising the steak, take a moment to season it. Generously sprinkle the steak with salt and pepper on all sides to enhance its natural flavors. You can also add additional seasonings, such as garlic powder, paprika, or herbs, to suit your taste preferences.
Step 3: Sear the Meat
In order to achieve a deep and flavorful crust on the steak, it’s important to sear it before placing it in the oven. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a small amount of cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the steak and sear it for a few minutes on each side until it is browned.
Searing the steak helps to lock in the juices and will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Step 4: Add the Liquid and Vegetables
After searing the steak, it’s time to add the liquid and vegetables. Pour in enough liquid, such as beef broth or red wine, to partially cover the steak. Add in chopped vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and garlic, along with herbs and spices of your choice. These ingredients will infuse the meat with flavor as it cooks.
Note that you’ll need a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil to cover the pot and create a moist environment for the steak to cook in.
Tips for cooking delicious braising steak in the oven
When it comes to cooking braising steak in the oven, there are a few tips you can follow to ensure a delicious meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, these tips will help you make the most out of your cooking experience.
Choose the right cut
Choosing the right cut of braising steak is essential for a tender and flavorful dish. Look for cuts that are well-marbled with fat, as this will help keep the meat moist during the cooking process. Some popular cuts for braising include chuck, brisket, and short ribs.
Tenderize the meat
Braising steak can be a tough cut of meat, so it’s important to tenderize it before cooking. One method is to use a meat mallet to pound the steak and break down the tough fibers. Another option is to marinate the steak overnight in a mixture of acid (like vinegar or lemon juice) and flavorful ingredients like herbs and garlic.
Preheat your oven
Before placing your braising steak in the oven, make sure it is properly preheated. This will ensure even cooking and help seal in the flavors. Set your oven to the recommended temperature in your recipe or around 160°C (320°F) for a slow and gentle braise.
Use a Dutch oven or a deep roasting tray
To cook braising steak in the oven, you’ll want to use a heavy-duty pot or roasting tray with a lid. This will allow the meat to cook slowly and retain its moisture. A cast-iron Dutch oven is an excellent choice as it provides even heat distribution.
Add flavorful ingredients
Enhance the taste of your braising steak by adding flavorful ingredients such as onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and herbs. These ingredients will add depth and complexity to your dish as they simmer and meld together during the cooking process.
Check for doneness
Braising steak should be cooked low and slow until it becomes tender. To check for doneness, insert a fork or meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. It should easily slide in and read an internal temperature between 71-82°C (160-180°F).
Allow for resting time
After removing your braising steak from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist dish.
These tips should guide you towards a perfectly cooked braising steak in the oven. Experiment with different flavors and cuts to find your favorite combination. Enjoy!
Choosing the right cut of braising steak
When it comes to cooking braising steak in the oven, selecting the right cut is essential. The ideal cut should have a good amount of marbling and connective tissue, as these will melt during the slow cooking process, resulting in a tender and flavourful dish.
One popular choice for braising steak is chuck, also known as blade steak. This cut comes from the shoulder area of the cow and is well-suited for slow cooking methods. Its generous amount of intramuscular fat ensures a moist and succulent final result.
Another great option is the brisket, a cut taken from the breast or lower chest area. The brisket is known for being exceptionally tender when properly cooked, and its rich, beefy flavour makes it a favourite for many braised dishes.
If you prefer a leaner option, look for round steak or shank. These cuts are taken from the hind legs of the cow and have less marbling compared to chuck or brisket. However, when cooked low and slow, they can still result in a delicious and fork-tender meal.
Remember, when choosing a cut of braising steak, opt for ones with a good balance of meat and fat. Avoid very lean cuts, as they may become dry during the long cooking process. Take the time to find the perfect cut, and your braising steak dish will be nothing short of amazing.
Preparing the braising steak
Before cooking the braising steak in the oven, it is important to properly prepare the meat to ensure a delicious and tender result. Follow these simple steps to get the perfect braising steak:
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1. Selecting the right cut: Choose a well-marbled cut of beef for the best flavor and tenderness. Ideal cuts for braising include chuck, blade, or brisket. |
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2. Seasoning the meat: Generously season the braising steak with salt and pepper on all sides. You can also add additional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs to enhance the flavor. |
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3. Browning the meat:
In a large, ovenproof skillet, heat some oil or clarified butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the braising steak in the skillet and sear it for about 2-3 minutes per side until it develops a golden-brown crust. Browning the meat adds depth of flavor to the final dish. |
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4. Removing the steak: Once the steak has been browned on all sides, carefully remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate. |
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5. Preparing the aromatics: While the skillet is still hot, add diced onions, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pan. Sauté the vegetables until they become soft and aromatic, about 5 minutes. |
Now that the braising steak has been prepared, it is ready to be cooked in the oven. Follow the remaining steps in the recipe to achieve a delectable and succulent dish.
Marinating the braising steak
To add an extra depth of flavor to your braising steak, it is recommended to marinate it before cooking. Marinating involves soaking the steak in a mixture of ingredients that will penetrate the meat and enhance its taste. Here’s how you can marinate your braising steak:
1. Choose a marinade:
There are countless marinade recipes to choose from, depending on your preferences. Common ingredients for a braising steak marinade include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, herbs, spices, and a liquid such as vinegar or lemon juice. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination.
2. Prepare the marinade:
In a bowl, combine the ingredients for your chosen marinade. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste. For instance, if you prefer a sweeter flavor, you may add a bit of brown sugar or honey to the mixture. Mix the ingredients well to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.
3. Marinate the braising steak:
Place the braising steak in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure that it is completely submerged. Massage the marinade into the steak to ensure that it coats the meat evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
4. Refrigerate for optimal results:
Place the marinating braising steak in the refrigerator. Marinate the meat for at least 2 hours, but for best results, leave it to marinate overnight. The longer the steak marinate, the more its flavors will develop and intensify.
5. Take the steak out of the marinade:
Prior to cooking, remove the braising steak from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade. Allow the steak to come to room temperature, as this can help it cook more evenly.
Marinating your braising steak adds an extra element of flavor that will surely impress your taste buds. Remember to plan ahead and give yourself enough time for the steak to marinate, ensuring a delicious and tender result.
Cooking the braising steak in the oven
Once you have prepared the braising steak and gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to start cooking. Cooking braising steak in the oven allows for slow, gentle cooking, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
Ingredients
Before starting, make sure you have the following ingredients:
| 2 pounds braising steak | Salt | Black pepper | 2 tablespoons vegetable oil | 1 onion, chopped | 2 carrots, chopped | 2 garlic cloves, minced | 2 cups beef broth | 1 cup red wine | 2 tablespoons tomato paste | 1 bay leaf | Fresh thyme sprigs |
Instructions
Follow these steps to cook the braising steak in the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Season the braising steak generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- In an oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the braising steak to the pot and sear it on all sides until browned. This will help seal in the juices and enhance the flavor.
- Remove the steak from the pot and set it aside. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and minced garlic to the pot and cook until they are softened.
- Increase the heat to high and add the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, bay leaf, and thyme sprigs. Stir well to combine.
- Return the braising steak to the pot and bring the liquid to a boil.
- Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Cook for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the steak is fork-tender.
- Once the braising steak is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
You can serve the braising steak with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. The cooking liquid can also be strained, reduced, and used as a delicious sauce to accompany the steak.
Serving and garnishing the braising steak
Once the braising steak is cooked to perfection in the oven, it’s time to serve and garnish it to add the final flourish to your dish. The presentation of the dish is just as important as the taste, so pay close attention to the details.
Here are a few ideas for serving and garnishing your braising steak:
| Serving suggestions: | Garnish ideas: |
| 1. Place a generous portion of braising steak on a warm plate. | 1. Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color. |
| 2. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. | 2. Drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the steak for added sweetness. |
| 3. Add a serving of steamed vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, or broccoli, for a healthy touch. | 3. Place a small pat of herbed butter on top of the steak for added richness and flavor. |
Remember, you can get creative with your serving and garnishing options based on your personal preferences. Consider incorporating ingredients that complement the flavors of the braising steak and add visual appeal to the dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new combinations!
By taking the time to present your braising steak beautifully, you’ll not only please the eye but also elevate the overall dining experience for yourself and your guests. Enjoy!
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