What Is Cube Steak? – Full Guide

what is cube steak?

Cube steak is a common cut of beef responsible for many delicious dishes.

However, not everyone is aware of what exactly cube steak is, or why it’s called that.

Cube steak got its name because the meat was originally cubed and then pounded to tenderize it.

Pounding the cubes into thin steaks allowed this economical cut of meat to be sold at a lower price.

Cube steak is made from a variety of beef cuts, but it generally comes from the tougher cuts which are better when pressure cooked or braised rather than grilled.

Cube steak’s low cost is due to how it’s prepared: because it’s tough and fibrous, pummeling the cubes with a tenderizer mallet breaks down the tissue, resulting in a more tender cut of meat.

So what is cube steak?

Let’s find out…

What Actually Is Cube Steak?

Cube steak is actually just another name for what is known as minute steak or sometimes Swiss steak.

The reason it’s called minute steak is because you can cook cube steaks very quickly.

They are especially good for those who are on the go.

Usually, when the term cube steak is used it’s in reference to a particularly cheap cut of meat that doesn’t require much preparation.

Cube steak is an American cut of beef that was originally prepared by pounding it with a tenderizing mallet.

This method was used to break up the tough tissue which resulted in a more tender cut of meat.

What Does Cube Steak Taste Like?

The specific flavor profile of cube steak is largely dependent on what cut of beef was used to make it.

However, one commonality between all cuts is that they are all relatively inexpensive options that work very well in a pressure cooker or slow cooker.

For the most part, this steak will taste like whatever it’s prepared with.

Cube steak can be seasoned and marinated, or it can be pan-fried to add flavor.

The latter method is probably the best way to prepare this cut of meat because the high heat will seal in the juices while adding a crispy texture on the outside.

How Is Cube Steak Best Cooked?

When it comes to cooking cube steak, it’s important to know that the meat is an extremely lean cut.

Because it’s so lean, cube steak can dry out very quickly. This means it shouldn’t be cooked past medium-rare temperature.

To ensure you don’t overcook your steak, make sure to use a digital thermometer and take it off the heat when it reads 130 degrees Fahrenheit.

If cube steak is overcooked, you will essentially be eating a very tough piece of meat that has been dried out.  

This means no one wants to consume it – and it won’t leave your guests very impressed or satisfied.

Cube steak should never be cooked past medium-rare because the lean meat will become dry and chewy if it’s cooked any longer.

How Is Cube Steak Best Prepared?

Preparing cube steak is easy, and it’s probably the most economical cut of meat you will ever buy.

Cube steak is a versatile option that can be prepared in many different ways, both sweet and savory.

First, you’ll want to season cube steak with salt and pepper, or any other seasonings you prefer.

Next, add the cube steak to a hot pan full of vegetable oil for about thirty seconds per side or until it’s browned on both sides.

Then proceed to cook the steak which is the fun part!

Cube steak is also great for stews, braised dishes, soups, or even stir-fry.

It’s often used to make Swiss steak because it picks up the flavor of whatever other ingredients are added to the pot.

Cube steaks are essentially a blank slate that can be flavored in countless ways.

This makes it great for those that like to experiment and try new recipes.

How Is Cube Steak Best Served?

Serving cube steak is pretty self-explanatory.

Cube steak is usually served as a stand-alone dish with nothing else on the plate.

However, it can also be served with sides such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, or even rice.

It’s important to note that cube steak should never be served rare because it can carry harmful bacteria and parasites if undercooked.

For this reason, it’s always best to cook cube steak until it reaches an internal temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit, as mentioned above.

This steak also goes well with the flavors of sauces, especially Worcestershire.

A simple pan sauce can go a long way in terms of flavor and presentation while making the dish seem more gourmet than it really is.

Cubed steak can also be used to make Philly cheesesteaks if you’re looking for something different on game day!

Is Cube Steak Expensive?

The price of cube steak is largely going to depend on where you are based in the world.

However, for the most part, this is a very economical cut of meat.

Cube steak is usually less than $5 per pound, making it one of the most inexpensive options you will find in the grocery store’s meat aisle.

It’s always a good idea to keep an eye out in stores for discounts, especially when looking to buy steak.

If you are lucky enough to grab a great deal, be sure to pick a couple of pounds up and keep it in the freezer.

Cube steak can also be frozen, so don’t worry about having to use it right away!

This ensures you’ve always got a tasty meal waiting for you in the freezer that can be thawed and ready to cook.

Where Is Cube Steak Commonly Found?

Cube steak originated in the United States and has been used for generations.

The cut can be found in grocery stores around the world, including countries like Germany, Italy, Japan, England, Canada, Australia – almost everywhere!

Cube steak is rarely (if ever) seared outside of the country it originates from because it’s not very popular around the world.

If you’re looking to serve a dish that is more American-themed or family-friendly, cube steak can be a great option.

It’s also perfect for game day celebrations like the Super Bowl!

What Dishes Can Cube Steak Be Used For?

Cube steak can be used in countless dishes because it’s such an affordable cut of meat.

It’s commonly used in the following foods:

Meatloaf, Salisbury steak, Swiss steak, Philly cheesesteaks, stews, braised dishes, soups, and stir-fry!

What Is The Nutritional Value Of Cube Steak?

As with any cut of steak, it’s a good idea to educate yourself on the nutritional value so that you know if what you’re eating is healthy.

Cube steak can be classified as a lean cut of meat with very little fat.

This means it should be cooked in a way that preserves the flavor while limiting the number of unhealthy fats that are released into the pan.

The recommended cooking method for cube steak is pan-frying because it goes well with gravy, sauces, and yellow mustard!

Below is the nutritional value of cube steak (4oz):

  • Calories = 140
  • Fat = 4g
  • Saturated Fat = 0g
  • Carbohydrates = 0g
  • Sugars = 0g
  • Protein = 25g

As you can see, cube steak is an incredibly healthy option that can be quite tasty if prepared correctly.

It’s an affordable steak that is great for those looking to pack on some muscle or lose weight too.

This steak is also an excellent source of protein and one that should be included in your diet regularly.

Other Considerations

It’s important to consider the preparation involved when buying cube steak.

Cube steak is typically ready to cook, but it can still require seasoning or marinating before being cooked.

Be sure to check for this if you are looking to prepare the dish right away!

Also, be mindful of any freezer burn before cooking so that you don’t lose too much of the product.

Cube steak can also be found in pre-packaged containers with gravy, seasonings, and other sauces.

It’s worth mentioning that cube steak is not a great choice if you’re looking for something that tastes similar to flap meat or sirloin steak.

The difference between these cuts of meat and cube steak is vast – but the price difference isn’t!

Cube steak is an incredibly affordable option that can save you a lot of money, especially since it’s commonly found in grocery stores.

It’s versatile and can be used in plenty of dishes or recipes, making it well worth the purchase if you’re looking to make cheap meals for your family.

This meat is best when prepared by pan-frying it and is typically paired with creamy mashed potatoes and gravy, which makes it even better!

Cube steak can also be frozen for months at a time – making it excellent to keep in your freezer at all times.

Conclusion

What is cube steak?

In conclusion, cube steak is an excellent cut of beef that can be used in countless dishes.

It’s often found for an affordable price, making it perfect for those on a budget or looking to save some money on their grocery shopping.

Other names for cube steak are minute steak, minute steaks, or sandwich steaks.

It’s also a good source of protein and should be included in your diet from time to time as part of a healthy lifestyle!

Note – cube steak does not refer to a type of beef, but rather the preparation method for making any cut of beef looks like cube-like pieces.

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post about cube steak.

I hope that it has provided you with valuable information to prepare a tasty meal packed with protein and packed with flavor!

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