Vintage Swiss Steak Recipe
This Vintage Swiss Steak Recipe turns simple ingredients like beef, onions, tomatoes, and broth into a tender, comforting dinner.
Equipment
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Tongs
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Oven-safe lid or foil
Ingredients
- 2 lbs round steak cut into serving pieces
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large onions sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Tenderize the Steak
- Place the steak pieces between sheets of plastic wrap and pound them until slightly thinner. This step is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 2: Season and Dredge
- Mix the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each piece of steak lightly, shaking off excess flour. This helps create a flavorful crust and thickens the sauce later.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the steak on both sides until golden, then remove and set aside. Don’t rush this step—the browning adds depth.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pan, add onions and cook until soft and lightly caramelized. Stir in garlic and cook just until fragrant.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
- Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and optional spices. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Return the steak to the pan, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.