How to Cook Bottom Round Steak for Tender and Flavorful Meals

The bottom round steak is a lean, tough cut from the animal's rump. Due to its lack of tenderness, it is recommended to marinate, cook over high heat, and slice it thin for optimal results.

Other Common Names

• Bottom Round London Broil
• Western Griller

Primal Cut

• Round Primal

Cooking Methods and Tips

• Grilling
• Broiling

General Cooking Recommendations Bottom round steak is one of the toughest cuts available. To enhance tenderness and flavor, marinate the steak before cooking. Cook it over high heat and slice it very thin to make the tough meat easier to chew. It's a good choice for dishes like tacos, stir-fry, or any preparation requiring thin slices of beef.

How to Cook Bottom Round Steak on a Traeger Grill

1. Preheat the Traeger to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the marinated steak directly on the grill.
3. Cook for 5 to 10 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare.
4. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes, then slice thin and serve.

Internal Temperatures for Bottom Round Steak

• Rare: 120-130 °F
• Medium-Rare: 130-135 °F
• Medium: 135-145 °F
• Medium-Well: 145-155 °F
• Well-Done: 155-165 °F

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Bottom Round Steak a Good Cut? No, it is quite lean and tough.

2. How Much Does Bottom Round Steak Cost? It costs between $5 to $10 per pound.

3. How Do You Know When Bottom Round Steak is Done? When the internal temperature reaches 135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare.

4. What is Bottom Round Steak Best For? Best for tacos or stir-fry.

5. Is Bottom Round Steak Tough? Yes, it is one of the toughest steaks.

6. How Does Round Steak Differ from Cube Steak? Cube steak is sometimes made from round steak and is pounded to make it more tender.

7. Can Bottom Round Steak Be Cooked from Frozen? Yes, as long as it isn't too thick.

Interesting Facts

• Food scientists rate bottom round as one of the toughest cuts still sold as steak.
• Bottom round steak is essentially slices from a bottom round roast.
• Identified by UPC number 1466 according to the National Cattlemen's Beef Association.

Nutritional Facts A grilled bottom round steak contains approximately 860 calories, 122.4 grams of protein, and 37.4 grams of fat.

Recipes

• Traeger Steak: Enhance natural meat flavors with wood-fired smoke for the perfect steak.
• Sweetheart Steak: A rich, memorable meal for special occasions.
• Reverse Sear New York Strip: Seasoned with Traeger Beef Rub, smoked, and seared to tender perfection.

Exploring the Bottom Round Steak: Tips, Techniques, and Recipes

The bottom round steak is an often-overlooked cut of beef, known for its lean texture and toughness. Sourced from the animal's rump, this cut requires special preparation to unlock its potential. Despite its reputation, the bottom round steak can be a versatile and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire if handled correctly.

Preparation and Cooking Tips Given its tough nature, the bottom round steak benefits significantly from marination. A good marinade can infuse the meat with flavor while helping to break down some of its fibers, making it more palatable. Cooking methods that apply high heat, such as grilling or broiling, are ideal for this cut. Ensuring the meat is sliced thin after cooking can also enhance its tenderness, making it suitable for various dishes like tacos and stir-fry.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking on a Traeger Grill

1. Marinate: Start with a flavorful marinade. Let the steak soak for several hours or overnight.
2. Preheat the Grill: Set your Traeger grill to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Grill: Place the marinated steak on the grill and cook for 5 to 10 minutes on each side. Aim for an internal temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare.
4. Rest and Slice: Allow the steak to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

Culinary Applications The bottom round steak's lean and tough characteristics make it ideal for dishes requiring thin beef slices. Its robust flavor and firm texture are well-suited for stir-fries, where it can be quickly cooked with vegetables and sauces. In tacos, the thinly sliced steak adds a satisfying bite and pairs well with various toppings and salsas.

Nutritional Value This cut of beef is not only affordable but also packed with protein. A serving of grilled bottom round steak offers a substantial 122.4 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake while keeping fat consumption in check.

Conclusion

While the bottom round steak may not be the most tender cut, it has its own unique appeal and versatility in the kitchen. With proper preparation and cooking techniques, it can transform into a delicious and satisfying component of various meals. Embrace the challenge of cooking this tough cut, and you'll discover a world of flavorful possibilities.