Round steak is a popular and affordable cut of beef that can be tough if not prepared correctly. However, by using the right methods, you can transform it into a tender and flavorful meal. Here are four ways to make round steak tender:

1. Marinate

Marinating your round steak is one of the easiest ways to make it tender. It helps to break down the tough muscle fibers and infuse the meat with flavor. Choose a marinade containing an acidic ingredient like vinegar, citrus juice, or wine to help tenderize the meat. Combine your chosen ingredients in a bowl or zip-top bag, place the steak in the mixture, and make sure it’s fully coated. Leave the steak to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

2. Pound

Pounding your round steak with a meat mallet will mechanically tenderize it by breaking down muscle fibers and connective tissues. Place the steak between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper to protect it during this process. Start from the center of the steak and pound outwards using a meat mallet or even a rolling pin if you don’t have a mallet handy. Try not to pound too hard, as you don’t want to damage the integrity of the meat.

3. Cook Low and Slow

Cooking round steak at low temperatures for an extended period will help to break down its tough fibers. You may achieve this by using techniques like slow cooking or braising. For slow cooking, season your round steak and place it in your slow cooker with some liquid (like broth) and any desired vegetables for added flavor. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours until tender. For braising, first sear your round steak in a hot pan with oil and then transfer it to an oven-safe dish or braising pan along with flavorful liquid such as beef broth or tomato sauce. Cover and cook at a low heat (around 300°F) for 2-3 hours until the meat is tender.

4. Cut Across the Grain

The way you cut your round steak is important when it comes to tenderness. Cutting across the grain is crucial to achieving a tender bite, as it shortens the muscle fibers in the meat. After cooking your round steak using one of the mentioned techniques, place it on a cutting board and identify the direction of the muscle fibers, which typically run parallel to each other. Then, using a sharp knife, slice across these fibers at a slight angle, rather than cutting along them.

By utilizing these four techniques—marinating, pounding, low-and-slow cooking methods, and slicing across the grain—you can transform tough round steak into a tender and delicious meal that’s sure to impress your friends and family.