If you’re looking for a recipe that embodies the comforting and hearty flavors of traditional Amish cuisine, look no further than Amish Wedding Steak. This delightful dish is perfect for any special occasion or a cozy family dinner, bringing the rich taste of tender steak and savory gravy to your table.
I first came across this recipe while visiting a quaint Amish community during a local fair. The tantalizing aroma of sizzling steak and rich gravy was impossible to resist. I watched as the cook prepared this beloved dish with such care and simplicity. Inspired, I brought the recipe home and tried it out, adding my own touches while keeping the essence of Amish cooking intact. The result was a dish that quickly became a favorite in my household, evoking memories of that charming fair with every bite.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and depth of flavor. The steak is tender and flavorful, smothered in a rich gravy that’s perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes or soaking up with a piece of crusty bread. It’s a dish that brings people together, just like it did at that Amish fair, and is sure to become a beloved staple in your home too.
Amish Wedding Steak: A Todd Wilbur-Inspired Summary
This Amish Wedding Steak recipe is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners. Tender steak smothered in rich, savory gravy creates a mouthwatering meal that’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist.
A Family Favorite: An Exciting Story
One crisp autumn day, my family and I attended a local fair where various Amish families shared their culinary traditions. The aroma of Amish Wedding Steak wafted through the air, drawing us to a small booth where we watched the cook expertly prepare the dish. Inspired by the simplicity and flavor, I recreated the recipe at home, adding a few personal touches. When I served it, my family’s eyes lit up with delight. The tender steak and rich gravy were an instant hit, and now this dish is a cherished part of our dinner rotation, bringing back memories of that wonderful day at the fair.
Why This Amish Wedding Steak?
Hearty and Flavorful: Combines tender steak with rich, savory gravy.
Simple to Make: Straightforward preparation and easy-to-find ingredients.
Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner.
How to Make Amish Wedding Steak
- Prepare the Steaks:
- Season the steaks with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Sear the Steaks:
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and sear on both sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are soft and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Make the Gravy:
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly until the flour is fully incorporated and starts to brown, about 2 minutes. Slowly pour in the beef broth and water, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add the dried thyme and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Steaks:
- Return the seared steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the steaks are tender.
- Finish the Gravy:
- Stir in the heavy cream and let the gravy simmer for another 5 minutes, until it’s rich and creamy.
- Serve:
- Serve the steaks smothered in the rich gravy with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Tips
- Meat: Choose a cut of steak that is tender and cooks well in a skillet.
- Gravy: If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more beef broth to reach the desired consistency.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
- Meat: Use pork chops or chicken breasts instead of steak.
- Gravy: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
- Vegetables: Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Make a Healthier Version
- Lean Meat: Use a lean cut of steak or substitute with chicken breasts.
- Low-Fat Dairy: Replace heavy cream with a low-fat alternative.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour for a healthier gravy.
And there you have it! Don’t forget to let us know how your Amish Wedding Steak turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, any tender cut of beef will work well in this recipe.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, the cooked steaks and gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
What sides go well with this dish? Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the gravy.
Can I add vegetables to the gravy? Yes, mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots would be great additions.
Is it okay to use a different type of cream? Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk for a lighter gravy.
How do I prevent the steaks from drying out? Ensure not to overcook them and simmer gently in the gravy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat before serving.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of beef broth if needed.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Yes, fresh herbs will add a more vibrant flavor to the dish.
How do I keep the gravy from getting lumpy? Whisk continuously when adding the broth to the flour mixture.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker? Yes, sear the steaks and sauté the onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.