Culinary Comfort: Slow Cooker Swiss Steak Recipe

Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is the epitome of comfort food, offering tender beef smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy. This classic dish is a beloved favorite for its simplicity and heartiness. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can effortlessly create a satisfying meal that will warm your soul. Let’s embark on a culinary journey and unravel the secrets to making this timeless favorite right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

6 medium beef blade steaks
8 oz fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons sweet paprika
3/4 cup chicken stock
1/4 cup dry sherry
1/4 cup flour
4 tablespoons oil
Salt & pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steaks:

Season the beef blade steaks generously with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika.
Dredge the steaks in flour, shaking off any excess.

2. Sear the Steaks:

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Work in batches if necessary.
Transfer the seared steaks to the slow cooker.

3. Add the Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add sliced onions and mushrooms. Cook until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in minced thyme and cook for an additional minute.

4. Deglaze the Pan:

Pour dry sherry into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Add chicken stock and bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Combine and Cook:

Pour the onion and mushroom mixture over the seared steaks in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the steaks are tender.

6. Finish with Cream:

Stir in cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve:

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the cooked Swiss steak.
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Cook Notes and Variations:

Vegetable Variation: Add carrots, bell peppers, or celery for extra flavor and texture.
Herb Substitutions: Substitute fresh thyme with rosemary or oregano for a different herbaceous note.
Tomato Twist: Stir in a can of diced tomatoes for a tangy addition to the gravy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?

A: Yes, you can use chuck roast or round steak instead of blade steaks for this recipe. Just ensure the meat is tenderized properly.

Q: Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare this Swiss steak in a Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot on the stovetop. Cook on low heat for about 2-3 hours until the meat is tender.

Q: Can I omit the alcohol?

A: If you prefer not to use sherry, you can substitute it with additional chicken stock or beef broth for depth of flavor.

Q: How do I thicken the gravy?

A: If the gravy is too thin, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with equal parts cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.

Keto Version:

Low-Carb Thickener: Instead of flour, use xanthan gum or almond flour as a thickening agent for the gravy.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace cream with coconut cream for a keto-friendly dairy-free alternative.

Low-Carb Version:

Vegetable Base: Serve the Swiss steak over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of mashed potatoes for a low-carb option.
Reduced Stock: Use less chicken stock to reduce the carbohydrate content of the gravy.

Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is a timeless classic that never fails to delight with its rich flavors and fork-tender beef. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can effortlessly achieve melt-in-your-mouth perfection. So, dust off your slow cooker and treat yourself to a comforting meal that’s bound to become a household favorite!