Swiss Steak is a beloved and flavorful dish known for its tenderized and braised meat, smothered in a rich tomato-based gravy. Traditionally, this dish is cooked on the stovetop or in the oven to achieve its signature succulence. However, as grilling continues to gain popularity as a cooking method, many home cooks wonder if they can grill Swiss Steak to add a smoky and charred twist to this classic recipe.
In this article, we will explore the idea of grilling Swiss Steak and whether it’s a feasible and delicious cooking method. We’ll also discuss some tips and techniques to achieve the best results when attempting this unique approach.
What is Swiss Steak?
Before we delve into grilling Swiss Steak, let’s take a moment to understand what makes this dish so special. Swiss Steak is a comfort food classic, traditionally made by tenderizing tough cuts of beef (often from the round or chuck) and then coating them in flour before searing them in a hot pan. The seared steaks are then simmered in a flavorful tomato-based gravy until they become tender and juicy.
The name “Swiss Steak” is somewhat misleading, as the dish does not have any connection to Switzerland. Instead, the term “Swiss” refers to the process of tenderizing the meat by pounding it with a meat mallet or using a mechanical tenderizer known as a “Swissing machine.”
Grilling Swiss Steak – Is It Possible?
Grilling Swiss Steak is indeed possible, but it may not produce the same results as the traditional stovetop or oven methods. The reason behind this lies in the nature of the cut used for Swiss Steak. As mentioned earlier, Swiss Steak typically utilizes tougher cuts of beef that require slow and gentle cooking to become tender. Grilling, on the other hand, is a high-heat and fast-cooking method, which may not be suitable for such cuts.
However, with the right approach and preparation, you can achieve a delicious grilled version of Swiss Steak that offers a unique smoky flavor and appealing charred crust.
Selecting the Right Cut for Grilling
When grilling Swiss Steak, it’s essential to choose the right cut of meat to ensure tenderness and flavor. While traditional Swiss Steak recipes call for tougher cuts, you’ll want to opt for more tender cuts that are better suited for grilling. Consider using cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or strip steak for a more enjoyable grilling experience.
Marinating the Meat
Marinating the meat is a crucial step when preparing Swiss Steak for grilling. Since grilling is a fast-cooking method, marinating the steak will help tenderize and infuse it with flavor. Create a marinade using a combination of oil, vinegar, garlic, herbs, and spices. Let the meat marinate for at least a few hours or overnight for the best results.
Preparing the Grill
Before grilling Swiss Steak, you’ll need to prepare your grill for high-heat cooking. Make sure the grates are clean and preheat the grill to a high temperature. For gas grills, set the burners to high, and for charcoal grills, arrange hot coals for direct heat cooking.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Since Swiss Steak is typically a thin cut of meat, it will cook quickly on the grill. For medium-rare to medium doneness, grill the steak for about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for your desired level of doneness. Keep in mind that overcooking can result in tough and dry meat, so monitor the cooking process closely.
Adding the Tomato-Based Gravy
To stay true to the essence of Swiss Steak, you can prepare the tomato-based gravy separately and serve it alongside the grilled steak. Alternatively, you can baste the steak with the tomato gravy during the last few minutes of grilling to infuse it with additional flavor.
Grilled Swiss Steak Recipes
Here are two delicious grilled Swiss Steak recipes to try:
Grilled Swiss Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Ingredients:
- 4 ribeye steaks
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil to create the chimichurri sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the ribeye steaks in a large resealable bag and pour half of the chimichurri sauce over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat your grill to high heat. Remove the steaks from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the steaks for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- Let the steaks rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining chimichurri sauce on the side.
Grilled Swiss Steak with Herb Butter:
Ingredients:
- 4 ribeye steaks
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped thyme, rosemary, and lemon juice to create the herb butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Rub the herb butter over the ribeye steaks, coating them evenly. Cover the steaks and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat your grill to high heat. Remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature before grilling.
- Grill the steaks for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- Let the steaks rest for a few minutes before serving.
Conclusion:
While grilling Swiss Steak may not be the traditional method, it is possible to achieve a delicious and flavorful grilled version of this classic dish. By choosing the right cut of meat, marinating, and properly grilling the steaks, you can create a tantalizing meal that combines the smoky goodness of the grill with the comforting flavors of Swiss Steak. So, fire up your grill and give grilling Swiss Steak a try for a delightful twist on this beloved recipe.