Cube steak and round steak are two popular cuts of beef that are often used in a variety of dishes. While both are taken from the same part of the cow, there are some key differences between the two that make them unique.
Cube steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized by pounding it with a meat mallet. This process breaks down the tough muscle fibers and makes the meat more tender. It is typically made from top round or bottom round, but can also be made from sirloin or chuck. Cube steak is often used in dishes such as chicken fried steak, beef stroganoff, and Swiss steak.
Round steak, on the other hand, is a cut of beef that comes from the rear leg of the cow. It is a lean cut that is less tender than cube steak. Round steak can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, broiling, and pan-frying. It is often used in dishes such as beef and broccoli stir-fry, beef stroganoff, and beef fajitas. Despite its toughness, round steak is a popular choice for many home cooks due to its affordability and versatility.
Differences in Texture and Flavor
Cube Steak
Cube steak is a cut of beef that is tenderized mechanically or with a meat mallet. The process of tenderizing creates small indentations on the surface of the meat, which gives it a unique texture. The meat is typically cut from the top round or bottom round, and it is a relatively lean cut of meat.
The texture of cube steak is tender and juicy, with a slightly grainy texture due to the indentations on the surface. The flavor of cube steak is mild and beefy, with a slightly gamey taste that is characteristic of lean cuts of meat.
Round Steak
Round steak is a cut of beef that is taken from the hindquarters of the cow. It is a lean cut of meat that is typically less tender than other cuts. Round steak can be cooked using a variety of methods, including grilling, broiling, and braising.
The texture of round steak is firm and chewy, with a slightly fibrous texture due to the muscle fibers in the meat. The flavor of round steak is beefy and slightly gamey, with a slightly more pronounced flavor than cube steak due to its higher fat content.
In summary, cube steak is a tender and juicy cut of meat with a mild, beefy flavor, while round steak is a leaner cut with a firmer texture and a slightly more pronounced beefy flavor. The choice between the two cuts will depend on personal preference and the intended use of the meat.
Cooking Methods for Cube Steak and Round Steak
Pan-Frying
Pan-frying is a quick and easy way to cook both cube steak and round steak. To pan-fry, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then place it in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if desired. Cube steak tends to cook faster than round steak due to its thinness.
Grilling
Grilling is a popular method for cooking both cube steak and round steak. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush the steak with oil. Season with salt and pepper, then place the steak on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if desired. Cube steak may cook faster than round steak, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
Braising
Braising is a slow-cooking method that is ideal for tougher cuts of meat like round steak. To braise, heat a small amount of oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then sear it on both sides until browned. Add liquid (such as beef broth or red wine) to the pot, along with any desired seasonings (such as garlic or herbs). Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the steak is tender.
Overall, both cube steak and round steak can be cooked using a variety of methods. It’s important to choose a method that suits the cut of meat and desired level of doneness.
Nutrition Comparison
| Nutrient | Cube Steak | Round Steak |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 209 | 166 |
| Protein | 25.6 g | 24.7 g |
| Fat | 10.9 g | 8.3 g |
| Sat. Fat | 4.3 g | 3.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 73 mg | 71 mg |
| Iron | 1.8 mg | 1.8 mg |
| Sodium | 68 mg | 52 mg |
| Potassium | 344 mg | 308 mg |
| Vit. B6 | 0.3 mg | 0.3 mg |
| Vit. B12 | 2.3 mcg | 2.1 mcg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the source and preparation method. This chart is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional dietary advice.
When comparing cube steak and round steak, it’s important to consider the nutritional differences between the two cuts of meat. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutritional components:
Calories and Fat
In terms of calories and fat, cube steak and round steak are fairly similar. A 3-ounce serving of cube steak contains around 200 calories and 12 grams of fat, while a 3-ounce serving of round steak contains around 180 calories and 10 grams of fat. However, the exact calorie and fat content can vary depending on the specific cut of meat and how it’s prepared.
Protein
Both cube steak and round steak are good sources of protein, with a 3-ounce serving containing around 25 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important part of any healthy diet.
Vitamins and Minerals
When it comes to vitamins and minerals, round steak tends to be slightly higher in certain nutrients compared to cube steak. For example, a 3-ounce serving of round steak contains around 20% of the recommended daily value (DV) of iron, while a 3-ounce serving of cube steak contains around 15% of the DV. Round steak also tends to be higher in zinc, vitamin B12, and selenium compared to cube steak.
Sodium
One area where cube steak tends to be higher than round steak is in sodium content. A 3-ounce serving of cube steak can contain up to 100 milligrams of sodium, while a 3-ounce serving of round steak typically contains less than 50 milligrams. It’s important to be mindful of sodium intake, as high levels of sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues.
Overall, both cube steak and round steak can be part of a healthy, balanced diet. When choosing between the two, consider factors such as taste, texture, and cooking method in addition to nutritional content.
Cost Comparison
When it comes to choosing between cube steak and round steak, cost is an important factor to consider. Generally, round steak is more affordable than cube steak. This is because round steak comes from the hindquarters of the cow and is a tougher cut of meat, requiring more preparation before cooking. Cube steak, on the other hand, is a round steak that has been tenderized by pounding it with a meat mallet or running it through a tenderizing machine. This extra step in processing makes cube steak more expensive than round steak.
To put it into perspective, here is a comparison of the average prices for cube steak and round steak in the United States:
- Cube steak: $4.99 per pound
- Round steak: $3.99 per pound
While the price difference may seem small, it can add up if you are buying in bulk or cooking for a large family. Additionally, it is important to note that prices may vary depending on the location and the store.
If you are on a budget, round steak may be the better option. However, if you are willing to spend a little extra for convenience and tenderness, cube steak may be worth the investment. Ultimately, the decision between cube steak and round steak comes down to personal preference and budget.
Conclusion
In summary, both cube steak and round steak have their unique characteristics and are suitable for different purposes. Cube steak is a tenderized cut of beef that is perfect for quick cooking methods such as frying and grilling. It is also a great option for dishes that require a shorter cooking time, such as stews and casseroles.
On the other hand, round steak is a lean cut of beef that is best suited for slow cooking methods such as braising and roasting. It is also a great option for dishes that require a longer cooking time, such as soups and stews.
When it comes to taste, cube steak has a more tender and juicy texture due to the tenderizing process. Round steak, while leaner, can be tougher and requires more time to cook to achieve its best texture.
In terms of cost, cube steak is generally more expensive than round steak due to the tenderizing process. However, it is still an affordable option for those looking for a quick and easy meal.
Overall, both cube steak and round steak have their advantages and disadvantages. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the cooking method used. By understanding the differences between the two cuts, individuals can make informed decisions when selecting the right cut of beef for their next meal.