“Poor Man’s Steak” is a budget-friendly dish that aims to mimic the flavor and texture of a traditional steak without the hefty price tag. It usually uses cheaper cuts of meat, like ground beef or inexpensive cuts like cube steak, and enhances them with seasoning to create a satisfying, steak-like meal.
Here’s a basic recipe for Poor Man’s Steak:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 is a good option)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for texture)
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp soy sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp oil or butter (for frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs (if using), egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well-combined. You can use your hands or a spoon to mix.
- Form the patties:
- Shape the mixture into patties. Depending on how thick or thin you want the “steaks,” form them into 4 to 6 patties.
- Cook the patties:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add oil or butter.
- Once the skillet is hot, place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re browned and cooked through. If you have thicker patties, reduce the heat slightly and cook for a few extra minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve your Poor Man’s Steaks with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of vegetables. You can also top with gravy or your favorite sauce for added flavor.
Tips:
- If you’re using cube steak (or another cheap cut of beef), you can tenderize it by pounding it out before cooking to mimic the texture of a traditional steak.
- Add any extra seasoning or herbs you like (e.g., thyme, parsley, or paprika) to customize the flavor.
This recipe provides a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy a steak-like experience without spending a lot of money!