Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce is a classic and flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy steaks with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce. This dish is a favorite for its robust flavors and the perfect balance between meat and sauce. Blade steaks, coming from the shoulder area of the cow, are known for their rich marbling and intense beef flavor, making them ideal for this hearty meal. Paired with a mushroom sauce made from a variety of mushrooms, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
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Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
– 6 beef blade steaks, of average size
– 1 onion, sliced
– 225g fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
– 180ml chicken broth
– 120ml cream
– 60ml dry sherry
– 30g all-purpose flour
– 4 tablespoons oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced
– 1 1/2 teaspoons mild paprika
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Preparation of the Steaks:
– Season both sides of the blade steaks with salt, pepper, and mild paprika.
– Dredge the steaks lightly in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Cooking the Steaks:
– In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
– Once hot, add the steaks to the skillet (working in batches if necessary) and sear them until they are browned on both sides and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
– Remove the steaks from the skillet and set aside.
3. Making the Mushroom Sauce:
– In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil.
– Add the sliced onion and sauté until it starts to soften.
– Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are golden brown and their moisture has evaporated.
– Sprinkle the cooked mushrooms and onions with the remaining flour and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
– Slowly pour in the chicken broth and dry sherry, stirring constantly to combine and to prevent lumps from forming.
– Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until it starts to thicken.
– Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream, fresh thyme, and half of the chopped parsley. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Finishing the Dish:
– Return the seared steaks to the skillet, spooning the mushroom sauce over them.
– Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, or until the steaks are tender and fully cooked through.
5. Serving:
– Serve the steaks hot, garnished with the remaining chopped parsley.
Enjoy your Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce, a dish that promises a symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in!
Notes
- Ensure mushrooms are dry and the pan is hot to achieve a good sear on them, which is crucial for flavor.
- Resting the steaks after cooking ensures they retain their juices when sliced.
- Gluten-Free (check broth and cream for gluten-free options if needed).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes blade steaks different from other cuts?
Blade steaks are cut from the shoulder area, specifically the chuck. They have a good amount of marbling and a rich beefy flavor, but can be tougher than more expensive cuts. Proper cooking and marinating can tenderize these steaks.
Can I use other types of mushrooms in the sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to use a variety of mushrooms depending on what’s available and your preference. Shiitake, portobello, and chanterelles all provide unique flavors and textures that can enhance the mushroom sauce.
How long should I marinate the blade steaks?
Marinating the steaks for at least four hours is recommended, but letting them marinate overnight in the refrigerator will provide the best results in terms of flavor and tenderness.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for making the mushroom sauce?
Yes, for a dairy-free version, you can substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. These options will still give you a creamy sauce without using dairy.
What are the best sides to serve with this dish?
Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce pairs well with starches like mashed potatoes, polenta, or rice to soak up the sauce. Light steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or carrots also complement the richness of the dish well.
Ingredients and Preparation
To prepare this dish, you’ll need beef blade steaks, typically about one inch thick, which are perfect for searing. For the mushroom sauce, gather fresh mushrooms—cremini or button mushrooms work well—along with onions, garlic, beef broth, heavy cream, and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. It’s important to pat the steaks dry and season them well with salt and pepper before cooking to ensure a flavorful crust. The mushrooms should be cleaned and sliced, and the onions and garlic finely chopped to meld seamlessly into the sauce.
Cooking the Steaks
Cooking the blade steaks properly is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with some oil until hot, then add the steaks. Sear the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Once cooked, remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that each bite is moist and flavorful.
Making the Mushroom Sauce
After removing the steaks, use the same skillet to cook the mushrooms. Add a bit more oil if necessary, toss in the mushrooms, onions, and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and golden. Deglaze the pan with a splash of beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits add a deep, savory flavor to the sauce. Stir in the cream and let the mixture simmer until it thickens into a creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs for additional flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the blade steaks topped with a generous amount of mushroom sauce. This dish goes well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, which make a perfect bed to soak up the extra sauce, or steamed green vegetables like asparagus or green beans for a lighter touch. For a more rustic feel, a side of crusty bread can be ideal for dipping into the creamy mushroom sauce. Pair this meal with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, to complement the rich flavors of the beef and mushrooms.
Variations and Modern Adaptations
Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce can be adapted in various ways to suit different tastes or dietary requirements. For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a light cream alternative, which reduces the fat content without compromising the creamy texture of the sauce. Incorporating different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, can add unique flavors and textures to the dish. For those who enjoy a bit of extra heat, adding a dash of crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce can provide a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the earthiness of the mushrooms.
Dietary Considerations
When preparing Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce for guests with dietary restrictions, several adjustments can be made. For gluten-sensitive diners, ensure that all broth used is gluten-free, or consider using a homemade broth to control the ingredients. Those on a ketogenic diet will appreciate this dish as it is high in protein and fat, especially if you use full-fat cream in the sauce. For lactose-intolerant guests, using lactose-free cream or a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat cream can make the dish more accessible without sacrificing creaminess.
Advanced Cooking Techniques
For culinary enthusiasts looking to elevate their Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce, experimenting with advanced cooking techniques can enhance the flavors and presentation of the dish. Sous-vide cooking the steaks ensures they are perfectly cooked to the desired doneness with exceptional tenderness. Sautéing the mushrooms in a separate pan until they are caramelized before adding them to the sauce can deepen the umami flavor of the sauce. Additionally, finishing the sauce with a pat of butter or a splash of brandy can add a layer of richness and complexity.
Hosting and Presentation Tips
When hosting a dinner where Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce is the centerpiece, presentation can significantly enhance the dining experience. Serve the steaks on warm plates to keep them hot longer. Elegantly arrange the mushroom sauce over and around the steak rather than covering it completely, allowing the seared crust of the meat to be visible. Garnish with finely chopped parsley or a sprig of thyme to add a touch of color and freshness. Providing well-paired side dishes and a complementary wine selection will impress guests and make the meal memorable.
Utilizing Leftovers
Leftover Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce can be creatively repurposed to extend the enjoyment of the dish. Slicing the steak thinly and serving it on a warm baguette with some of the mushroom sauce can make a delicious steak sandwich. Alternatively, the leftover steak and sauce can be chopped and mixed with cooked pasta and a bit more cream to create a hearty pasta dish. Another option is to use the steak and sauce as a topping for a gourmet-style pizza with a bit of blue cheese and arugula for an unexpected twist.
Health Benefits
Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce provides several nutritional benefits that make it a worthwhile addition to a balanced diet. Beef is a great source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It is also rich in important nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, particularly B12, which are crucial for energy metabolism and immune function. Mushrooms add dietary fiber and a range of minerals and vitamins, including selenium, potassium, and several B vitamins, contributing to overall health and wellness.
Seasonal Adaptations
Adapting the Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce recipe to accommodate seasonal ingredients can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional profile. In the spring, consider adding fresh herbs like chives or tarragon to the sauce for a lighter, more aromatic flavor. During the summer, pairing the dish with a side of fresh, vibrant salads can offset its richness. In the autumn, incorporating wild mushrooms can provide a deeper, earthier flavor that complements the cooling weather. Winter versions of the dish can include heartier elements like root vegetables or a richer sauce to provide comfort and warmth.
Pairing with Beverages
Choosing the right beverage to accompany Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce can greatly enhance the meal’s enjoyment. A robust red wine, such as a Shiraz or a Malbec, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the beef and the umami of the mushrooms. For those who prefer beer, a dark stout or a porter offers a pleasing contrast to the savory elements of the dish, with their deep, malty flavors complementing the meal’s hearty nature. Non-alcoholic options could include a rich, dark grape juice or a sparkling water infused with herbs to cleanse the palate between bites.
Cooking Tips for Maximum Flavor
To maximize the flavor of Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce, it is important to sear the steaks at a high temperature to develop a flavorful crust before reducing the heat to complete the cooking process. Resting the meat after cooking ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the steak, enhancing its tenderness and flavor. For the mushroom sauce, using a variety of mushrooms can add layers of flavor, and cooking them until they are browned brings out their natural sweetness and complexity. Deglazing the pan with a good quality stock or wine can also add an additional depth of flavor to the sauce.
Kitchen Equipment Recommendations
Using the right kitchen equipment can significantly improve the cooking experience and outcome of the Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce. A heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan is ideal for searing the steaks evenly and retaining heat. For the sauce, a wooden spoon is essential for stirring and scraping the flavorful fond (browned bits) from the bottom of the pan during deglazing. A sharp chef’s knife is crucial for cleanly slicing the mushrooms and herbs, ensuring they cook evenly and present well. Investing in these tools can make the preparation of this dish both easier and more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Beef Blade Steaks with Mushroom Sauce is a rich and satisfying dish that showcases the deep flavors of beef combined with the earthy tones of mushrooms. This dish not only offers a hearty meal but also provides an opportunity to experiment with various ingredients and cooking techniques. Whether you’re looking for a special dinner option or just want to elevate your weeknight meal routine, this recipe delivers comfort and gourmet flair in equal measure. By following the provided tips and adapting the recipe to suit your taste preferences, you can create a memorable dining experience that is sure to impress.
