how to make swiss steak in a pressure cooker
A classic dish! Swiss steak, also known as Swiss-style steak or steak with mushrooms and gravy, is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a pressure cooker. Here’s a simple recipe to make Swiss steak in a pressure cooker:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 pounds beef steak (such as round or top round), sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening the gravy)
Instructions:
- Brown the steak: Heat the oil in the pressure cooker over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces and brown them on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the browned steak from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: Reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced onion to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the broth, tomato paste, and thyme: Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Add the tomato paste and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
- Return the steak to the pot: Add the browned steak back to the pot, making sure it’s covered with the liquid.
- Close the pressure cooker: Close the lid of the pressure cooker and make sure the valve is set to "sealing".
- Cook the Swiss steak: Cook the Swiss steak at high pressure for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of tenderness.
- Let the pressure release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
- Thicken the gravy (optional): If you want a thicker gravy, mix the flour with a little water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the gravy and cook for a few minutes to thicken.
- Serve: Serve the Swiss steak with the rich, savory gravy spooned over the top. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Use a pressure cooker with a sauté function to brown the steak and cook the onion and mushrooms.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, use a mixture of beef broth and red wine or beer.
- Add some sliced bell peppers or carrots to the pot for added flavor and nutrients.
- For a creamier gravy, stir in some heavy cream or sour cream before serving.
I hope you enjoy this recipe for Swiss steak in a pressure cooker!