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–+ servings
Russian Steak
Russian Steak is a homey, tomato-rich variation of Swiss Steak, replacing cream-based soups with a tangy tomato juice base. This dish infuses tender cuts of beef with aromatic layers of onions, bay leaf, cloves, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Designed for slow cooking, the flavors develop into a comforting, savory stew perfect for cool weather or hearty dinners. Its appeal lies in simplicity and deep, satisfying flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups tomato juice
  • 1 onion (large, sliced)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 whole cloves
  • ¼ tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 lbs bottom round steak ( or branded steak, cut ½ inch thick)
  • Additional tomato juice (as needed)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

  • Cut bottom round or branded steak into ½-inch thick slices. Trim excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Brown the Steak

  • In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the steak slowly on both sides to develop flavor. (Refer to tip card: slow, thorough browning is key.)

Step 3: Layer Ingredients

  • Place a layer of sliced onions over the browned steak. Add bay leaf and whole cloves.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Seasoning

  • Pour in 2 cups tomato juice and stir in Worcestershire sauce.

Step 5: Simmer Slowly

  • Cover and simmer over low heat for about 1½ to 2 hours, or until steak is fork-tender.

Step 6: Adjust Liquid as Needed

  • Add more tomato juice during cooking if needed to maintain moisture.

Step 7: Serve

  • Serve warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.

Tips

  • Brown the steak slowly and thoroughly, as noted on the card, for the best depth of flavor
  • Use Swiss steak-style preparation if preferred, as the card suggests equivalence
  • Substitute part of the tomato juice with beef broth for a less acidic sauce
  • Add extra onions or mushrooms for a heartier gravy
  • Simmer longer (up to 2 hours) for fork-tender beef
  • Finish with a splash of additional Worcestershire sauce for deeper umami
  • Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice
  • Skim excess fat from the surface before serving for a cleaner sauce
  • Leftovers improve in flavor and are excellent reheated the next day

Nutrition

Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 42gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 125mgSodium: 820mgPotassium: 820mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 420IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 55mgIron: 4.6mg
Keyword beef steak, classic dinner, comfort food, slow simmered, stovetop cooking, tomato-based sauce, vintage recipe
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