Classic Amish Poor Man’s Steak
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a delicious, budget-friendly meal that brings together simple ingredients to create a hearty and satisfying dish. Rooted in the tradition of Amish cuisine, this recipe showcases the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Amish community. Made with ground beef and pantry staples, it’s an excellent alternative to more expensive steak cuts. This guide will take you through every step to create a perfect Poor Man’s Steak, ensuring a delightful experience for you and your family.
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Ingredients for Amish Poor Man’s Steak
To make this classic Amish dish, you will need the following ingredients:
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For the Patties:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 2 pounds |
| Onion, diced | 1/2 |
| Saltine cracker crumbles | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Powdered garlic | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Butter | 30 milliliters |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
For the Gravy:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mushroom soup with a cream base | 1-2 cans |
| Milk | 3/4 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Patties
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you need to bake the patties.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, crushed saltine crackers, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well integrated.
- Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into oval or rectangular patties. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Coat the Patties: Dredge each patty in flour, making sure to shake off any excess. This coating helps create a nice crust when browning.
- Brown the Patties: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Brown each patty on both sides for about 3 minutes per side. This step is crucial for adding flavor and color. Once browned, set the patties aside.
Making the Gravy and Baking
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the browned patties in the dish in a single layer.
- Make the Gravy: In a medium bowl, mix the mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the patties.
- Bake the Patties: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the patties to absorb the flavors of the gravy while staying moist.
Serving Suggestions
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some traditional accompaniments:
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- Buttery Corn: The sweetness of the corn complements the savory beef patties perfectly.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture of the mashed potatoes contrasts beautifully with the robust patties.
- Roasted Vegetables: Adds a touch of brightness and a balance of flavors.
- Green Beans: A simple, yet effective side that adds crunch and freshness.
- Crisp Green Salad: Lightens the meal and adds a refreshing note.
Tips for the Perfect Amish Poor Man’s Steak
- Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality ground beef can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Consistent Patty Sizes: Ensure all patties are of uniform size to cook evenly.
- Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the patties adds a depth of flavor that’s essential to the dish.
- Customize the Gravy: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the gravy for extra flavor.
- Resting Time: Let the patties rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making them more tender.
