Rachael Ray: Rachael's Daytime Talkshow

Italian BBQ Cube Steak

Rachael turns an inexpensive cut of meat into a delicious dinner.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons EVOO – Extra Virgin Olive Oil
4 beef cube steaks (about 2 pounds total)
Salt and ground black pepper
1 slice pancetta or bacon, chopped (optional)
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, finely chopped or grated
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 8-ounce can tomato sauce

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Preparation

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat with 2 turns of the pan of EVOO, about 2 tablespoons. Season the steaks with salt and pepper, and sear in the pan (working in batches if need be) until the steaks have a nice crust on the outside, about 3 minutes per side.

Remove the cooked steaks from the skillet and reserve warm on a plate. Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the pancetta or bacon, if using. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes.

Add the onion and garlic to the pan, and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Add the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire and tomato sauce to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and bring up to a bubble. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer the sauce until lightly thickened, 3-4 minutes.

Serve the steaks with a hearty pour of the Italian BBQ sauce and a fresh green salad alongside.