Are you tired of tough and dry mock tender steak?
Look no further! We’ve got the tips and tricks to make this lean cut of beef tender and flavorful.
Whether you prefer braising or grilling, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll share some delicious recipes to try out with your newfound knowledge.
So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
How To Cook Beef Chuck Mock Tender Steak?
As mentioned, mock tender steak is a lean cut of beef that comes from the chuck part of the cow. It is naturally tougher than other cuts of beef, but with the right cooking techniques, it can be transformed into a delicious and tender meal.
Braising is the optimal cooking method for this steak, as it involves simmering the meat in liquid for an extended period of time. To braise mock tender steak, follow these steps:
1. Brown the meat by searing it in a hot pan.
2. Add a small amount of liquid to the pan and bring it to a boil.
3. Lower the heat, cover the pan, and simmer for several hours until the meat is tender.
If you prefer to grill your steak, there are a few steps you can take to ensure it turns out tender and flavorful. First, use a mallet tenderizer to break up the tough fibers before marinating it overnight in a mixture that includes a strong acid component (like vinegar or citrus juice) and oil or fat to protect the surface of the meat and hold in moisture. Then, grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
Another option is to use mock tender steak as stew meat. Cut it into pieces and place it in a slow cooker with plenty of liquid (including an acid like tomatoes or beer) for several hours until it becomes tender.
Understanding Beef Chuck Mock Tender Steak
Beef chuck mock tender steak is a cut of meat that comes from the shoulder area of the cow. It is a lean cut that is tough and fibrous, making it challenging to cook correctly. The name “mock tender” can be misleading, as the meat is anything but tender unless it is prepared correctly.
The mock tender steak is often sold as a roast, but it can also be cut into steaks. It is cone-shaped and found next to the top blade in the chuck primal. This section of the cow includes many complex bones and muscles, making it more challenging to prepare than other cuts of meat.
To make the mock tender steak tender before cooking, it is essential to pound it with a mallet first and marinate it in a solution that includes acidic notes like citrus fruits, vinegar, or wine. The acidic content helps break down muscle fibers, making the meat more tender.
Braising is one of the best cooking methods for this cut of meat. This involves simmering the meat in liquid for an extended period until it becomes tender. Grilling can also be an option, but it requires using a mallet tenderizer to break up the tough fibers before marinating overnight.
Preparing Your Beef Chuck Mock Tender Steak
Before cooking your mock tender steak, it is important to properly prepare it to ensure the best possible outcome. Here are some tips for preparing your beef chuck mock tender steak:
1. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel and season it with salt and pepper.
2. If you plan on braising the steak, brown it first by searing it in a hot pan. This will help to develop a rich flavor and color on the surface of the meat.
3. If you plan on grilling the steak, use a mallet tenderizer to break up the tough fibers before marinating it overnight. This will help to ensure that the meat is tender and flavorful.
4. When marinating your steak, use a mixture that includes a strong acid component (like vinegar or citrus juice) and oil or fat to protect the surface of the meat and hold in moisture.
5. If you plan on using mock tender steak as stew meat, cut it into pieces and place it in a slow cooker with plenty of liquid (including an acid like tomatoes or beer) for several hours until it becomes tender.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your beef chuck mock tender steak is prepared properly and turns out tender and delicious.
Braising Your Beef Chuck Mock Tender Steak
Braising is a slow-cooking method that involves browning the meat first and then simmering it in liquid for an extended period of time. This technique is perfect for mock tender steak because it helps to break down the tough fibers and connective tissues, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
To braise your beef chuck mock tender steak, follow these steps:
1. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel and season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat a large cast iron skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add oil once it’s hot.
3. Brown the steaks on both sides for about 3 minutes each. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will cause the meat to steam instead of sear.
4. Remove the steaks from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
5. Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the same pan and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
6. Pour in red wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
7. Add beef or vegetable broth, bay leaves, chopped root vegetables (such as turnip, carrot, and red potatoes), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.
8. Nestle the steaks back into the pan, making sure they are covered by the liquid and vegetables.
9. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid.
10. Let everything simmer for about 2 hours or until the meat is tender. Avoid removing the lid from the pan too often, as this will release heat and moisture.
11. Once the meat is tender, remove it from the pan and let it rest on a plate while you thicken the sauce.
12. Turn up the heat to medium and bring the liquid to a high simmer or almost boil.
13. Mix cornstarch with water in a separate bowl until it forms a slurry, then add it to the pan while stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
14. Discard bay leaves and any other herbs or vegetables you added for flavoring.
15. Serve your braised beef chuck mock tender steak hot with your favorite side dishes.
Braising is a simple yet effective way to transform tough cuts of meat like mock tender steak into delicious meals that are full of flavor. By following these steps, you can create a mouth-watering dish that will impress your family and friends without breaking the bank.
Grilling Your Beef Chuck Mock Tender Steak
Grilling your beef chuck mock tender steak can be a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy this cut of meat. However, because it is naturally tough, it requires some preparation before grilling to ensure it turns out tender and flavorful.
First, use a mallet tenderizer to break up the tough fibers of the meat. Be sure to create an even thickness and not to pound it too thin. Then, marinate the steak overnight in a mixture that includes a strong acid component (like vinegar or citrus juice) and oil or fat to protect the surface of the meat and hold in moisture.
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Season it with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning blend.
Place the steak on the grill’s grates and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, turning once. Increase the cook time by 1-2 minutes per side if you prefer your steak medium-well or well-done.
Once the steak is cooked to your desired degree of doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly and serving.
Remember that mock tender steak is a lean cut that resembles a Tenderloin Steak but is not as tender. If you want to ensure that your grilled mock tender steak turns out tender and juicy, consider slow-cooking or tenderizing it with a marinade before grilling.
Delicious Recipes To Try With Beef Chuck Mock Tender Steak
If you’re looking for some delicious recipes to try with beef chuck mock tender steak, here are a few ideas:
1. Slow Cooker Beef Stew: Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces and place them in a slow cooker with chopped vegetables (like carrots, onions, and potatoes), beef broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
2. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: Slice the steak thinly and marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar for at least 30 minutes. Stir-fry the steak in a hot pan with broccoli florets and serve over rice or noodles.
3. Grilled Steak Salad: Grill the steak as described above and slice it thinly. Toss with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, and a vinaigrette dressing.
4. Beef Tacos: Cook the steak in a skillet with taco seasoning and serve in tortillas with your favorite toppings (like shredded cheese, lettuce, and salsa).
No matter how you choose to cook it, beef chuck mock tender steak can be a delicious and affordable option for your next meal. With a little bit of patience and some flavorful seasonings, you can turn this tough cut of meat into a tender and tasty dish that your whole family will love.