Top Blade Steak: Flavorful Recipes For A Budget-Friendly Cut

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A Culinary Odyssey

The top blade steak, often overshadowed by its more popular counterparts, is a versatile cut that deserves the spotlight. It’s a canvas for culinary exploration, a blank slate upon which to paint flavors from around the world. Today, we embark on a culinary journey, blending the rustic charm of European cuisine with the vibrant spices of the East.

Ingredients:

Slow Cooker Swiss Steak
Slow Cooker Swiss Steak

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2 top blade steaks, about 1.5 inches thick

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

  • Preparation:

    1. Season the Steak: Generously season both sides of the steaks with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
    2. Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a deep crust forms.
    3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the sliced red onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened.
    4. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers and cook for a few more minutes until softened.
    5. Create the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, red wine vinegar, honey, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
    6. Finish the Steak: While the sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the seared steaks on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until desired level of doneness.
    7. Serve: Once the steak is cooked to perfection, slice it and serve it over a bed of the rich, flavorful sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.

    Total Time: 1 hour

    Serving Ideas:

    Mediterranean Feast: Serve with a side of roasted potatoes, a Greek salad, and a glass of red wine.

  • Spicy Adventure: Pair with spicy rice, a dollop of yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
  • Classic Comfort: Enjoy with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of gravy.

  • A Fusion of Flavors

    This Nomadic Nomad Steak is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. It draws inspiration from the hearty stews of Europe and the vibrant flavors of the Middle East. The smoky, rich flavors of the steak are complemented by the tangy, sweet, and spicy sauce. Each bite is a journey, a taste of cultures past and present.