Amish Wedding Steak is a comforting classic that brings rich flavors and tender texture to the table. Despite its name, this dish isn’t served at Amish weddings but is a beloved recipe passed down through generations in Amish communities. It’s all about slow-cooked beef smothered in a savory mushroom and onion gravy that melts in your mouth.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create something so hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a dish to impress guests, Amish Wedding Steak delivers every time. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe and bring a taste of Amish tradition to our kitchens.
Ingredients
To create an authentic Amish Wedding Steak that embodies rich flavor and tender texture, we need to gather simple but high-quality ingredients. These components come together to build the savory, hearty experience this dish is known for.
For the Steak
- 2 pounds beef round steak (thinly sliced for tenderness)
- Salt (to taste, for seasoning the beef)
- Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for searing)
For the Marinade
- 1 cup buttermilk (helps tenderize the steak)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Gravy
- 2 medium onions (thinly sliced for sweetness)
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (fresh, for earthiness)
- 3 tablespoons butter (to sauté vegetables)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening the gravy)
- 2 cups beef broth (rich and flavorful base)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (adds umami)
- Salt and black pepper (to adjust seasoning)
| Ingredient Group | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Steak | Beef round steak, salt, black pepper, oil |
| Marinade | Buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder |
| Gravy | Onions, mushrooms, butter, flour, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper |
Our focus on straightforward ingredients ensures that the tender steak and savory gravy combine perfectly to bring out the classic Amish Wedding Steak flavor.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Amish Wedding Steak recipe perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool ensures we achieve the tender texture and rich flavors that define this classic dish.
- Heavy skillet or cast-iron pan
Use a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan for even heat distribution and excellent browning of the beef. This helps lock in juices and develop a deep crust.
- Mixing bowl
A medium mixing bowl is required for marinating the steak in buttermilk and seasonings. We need enough space to coat each piece evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Precise measuring of ingredients like buttermilk, flour, and seasonings ensures balanced flavors in our gravy.
- Cutting board and sharp knife
We’ll use these for slicing onions and mushrooms uniformly, which is crucial for even cooking and a smooth gravy texture.
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ideal for stirring the gravy gently without scratching the pan surface.
- Lid for skillet or pan
Keeping the pan covered during simmering traps moisture, tenderizes the steak, and melds the mushrooms and onions into the rich gravy.
- Tongs
Perfect for flipping the steak pieces without piercing the meat, preserving their juices.
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy skillet/cast-iron pan | Browning and slow cooking steak | Ensures even heat and crust formation |
| Mixing bowl | Marinating steak | Allows thorough coating of steak |
| Measuring cups & spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Essential for consistent flavor |
| Cutting board & knife | Preparing vegetables | For uniform onion and mushroom slices |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Stirring gravy | Prevents scratching and helps combine ingredients |
| Skillet lid | Covering during simmering | Retains moisture and tenderizes meat |
| Tongs | Handling steak | Avoids piercing and juice loss |
Having these tools ready helps us focus on cooking our Amish Wedding Steak with confidence and precision, allowing the flavors to come through beautifully.
Preparation
To craft the perfect Amish Wedding Steak, meticulous preparation is crucial. We begin by handling the steak properly before moving on to creating a flavorful marinade that tenderizes and infuses the meat.
Preparing the Steak
Start by selecting a high-quality beef round steak, ideally about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking and tenderness. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the steak using a sharp knife. This prevents toughness during cooking.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning later.
- Use a fork to pierce the steak evenly on both sides. This helps the marinade penetrate deeply, tenderizing the meat effectively.
- Cut the steak into serving portions if your cut is large, making it easier to handle.
Making the Marinade
Our marinade is essential for the signature flavor and tenderness of Amish Wedding Steak. We use buttermilk as the base to soften the meat while imparting a slight tang.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Buttermilk | 2 cups | Tenderizes and infuses flavor |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon | Enhances overall taste |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon | Adds subtle heat and depth |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Provides savory aroma |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | Boosts sweetness and zest |
Steps to prepare the marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of buttermilk with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Whisk the ingredients together until fully blended for an evenly seasoned base.
- Submerge the prepared steak portions fully into the marinade. The buttermilk’s acidity initiates the tenderizing process.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to maximize tenderness and flavor absorption.
“Immersing the steak in this rich marinade softens the tough fibers and sets the stage for the dish’s classic melt-in-your-mouth texture.”
By dedicating time to these preparation steps, we guarantee that the Amish Wedding Steak will deliver its rich, savory taste and velvety tenderness every time.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare the Amish Wedding Steak flawlessly. By carefully marinating, cooking, and crafting the gravy, we ensure every bite is tender, flavorful, and true to tradition.
Marinating the Steak
- Place the high-quality beef round steak in a large mixing bowl.
- Pierce the steak evenly on both sides with a fork or knife to allow the marinade to penetrate deeply.
- In a separate bowl, combine the marinade ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Buttermilk | 2 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
- Whisk the marinade mixture thoroughly until fully blended.
- Pour the marinade over the steak ensuring it is fully submerged.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to tenderize and infuse the meat with deep flavor.
Marinating the steak properly is crucial to achieving the classic tenderness and rich taste characteristic of our Amish Wedding Steak.
Grilling or Baking the Steak
- Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture.
- For grilling:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F).
- Place the steak on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium.
- Use tongs to turn the steak, preserving the juices.
- For baking:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side until browned.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, checking for the desired internal temperature as above.
- Once cooked, allow the steak to rest covered loosely with foil for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Preparing the Gravy
- In the same skillet or pan used for the steak, lower the heat to medium.
- Add 1 tablespoon butter and sauté 1 cup sliced onions until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms and cook until browned, approximately 7 minutes.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in 2 cups beef broth, scraping the pan’s browned bits to incorporate full flavor into the gravy.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes until thickened to a velvety consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the savory mushroom and onion gravy generously over the rested steak when serving.
The rich, silky gravy completes the dish by enhancing the tender steak with robust savory notes, hallmark to our Amish Wedding Steak experience.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy the Amish Wedding Steak, pairing it with the right sides enhances its rich, savory flavors and tender texture. Here are our top recommendations for serving this comforting dish:
Classic Side Dishes
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect match for soaking up the velvety mushroom and onion gravy. Use plenty of butter and a touch of cream to create a smooth consistency that complements the steak’s bold flavors.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a fresh, crisp contrast, balancing the richness of the steak and gravy.
- Buttered Corn: Sweet, tender corn with a pat of butter adds a hint of natural sweetness to the plate.
Vegetable Options for Balance
- Roasted Carrots and Parsnips: Their natural sweetness deepens with roasting, adding warmth and color to your presentation.
- Sautéed Mushrooms: Amplify the mushroom notes from the gravy by serving extra sautéed mushrooms on the side.
- Garden Salad: A simple salad with crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette refreshes the palate.
Beverage Pairings
Pair the Amish Wedding Steak with robust beverages that elevate the savory experience:
| Beverage Type | Recommendations | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Red Wine | Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot | Bold flavors enhance steak |
| Beer | Amber Ale, Brown Ale | Complements the hearty gravy |
| Non-Alcoholic | Sparkling water with lemon, Unsweetened iced tea | Cleanses the palate |
Presentation Tips
To impress your guests, follow these simple plating tips:
- Spoon the gravy generously over the steak to keep every bite moist and flavorful.
- Arrange sides neatly around the steak for visual appeal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness.
“Serving the Amish Wedding Steak with thoughtfully chosen sides transforms a simple meal into a memorable experience rich in tradition and flavor.”
By thoughtfully pairing this classic dish with complementary sides and beverages, we create a balanced and satisfying meal that honors the rich heritage of the Amish Wedding Steak.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing the Amish Wedding Steak ahead of time elevates the flavors and streamlines your cooking process. Here are our best make-ahead strategies to ensure the dish turns out tender, juicy, and rich in taste without last-minute stress.
1. Marinate the Steak in Advance
Marinating the beef overnight (8 to 12 hours) in the buttermilk mixture is essential for maximum tenderness. The acidic buttermilk breaks down the muscle fibers gently, allowing the steak to soak up the savory flavors fully.
- Use an airtight container or a zip-top bag.
- Keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness.
2. Prepare the Mushroom and Onion Gravy Base Ahead
Sauté the mushrooms and onions and store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This step saves time on cooking day and allows the flavors to blend nicely.
- Cool completely before refrigerating.
- Reheat gently on low before combining with the flour and beef broth.
3. Blend the Flour and Seasoning Mix
Mix the flour and seasonings beforehand in a small bowl. This ready-to-use blend simplifies the cooking process, helping you move seamlessly from browning the steak to thickening the gravy. Store this mixture in a dry container at room temperature.
4. Assemble for Slow Cooking
If you prefer slow cooking, you can combine the marinated steak, sautéed mushrooms, onions, and seasoning blend in your slow cooker the night before.
- Cover tightly and refrigerate.
- Set the cooker to start in the morning or adjust for after work, allowing for a perfectly tender steak.
Make-Ahead Timing and Storage Chart
| Step | Preparation Time | Storage Method | Storage Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marinate steak | Overnight (8-12 hours) | Airtight container or bag | Up to 24 hours | Keep refrigerated |
| Sauté mushrooms and onions | 15 minutes | Sealed container | Up to 2 days | Cool completely before storing |
| Flour and seasoning mix | 5 minutes | Dry container | Up to 1 week | Store in a cool, dry place |
| Combine all in slow cooker | Night before cooking | Covered slow cooker insert | Up to 24 hours | Refrigerate until cooking |
Pro Tip: Marinating longer enhances tenderness but avoid exceeding 24 hours to prevent texture breakdown.
Final Prep on Serving Day
On the day of serving, simply remove the marinated steak from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This step ensures even cooking and optimal juiciness.
By following these Make-Ahead Tips, we save time and ensure our Amish Wedding Steak bursts with deep, authentic flavor, making dinner a true delight.
Storage and Leftovers
Proper storage of Amish Wedding Steak ensures we maintain its rich flavors and tender texture for future meals. Follow these steps to keep our leftovers fresh and delicious:
Cooling and Refrigeration
- Allow the steak and gravy to cool to room temperature within two hours after cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
- Transfer the steak and mushroom-onion gravy into an airtight container.
- Store the container in the refrigerator where it will keep safely for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing for Longer Storage
- For extended storage, place the cooled steak and gravy in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Label the container with the date to track freshness.
- Freeze for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.
- When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
- Reheat Amish Wedding Steak gently to avoid drying out the beef.
- Use a stovetop method by warming the steak and gravy over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through (about 10-15 minutes).
- Alternatively, reheat in a preheated 350°F oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes.
- Add a splash of beef broth to the gravy during reheating to maintain its velvety texture.
| Storage Method | Storage Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Cool before refrigerating, airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Freeze in labeled freezer-safe container, thaw overnight |
Final Tips on Leftovers
- Avoid reheating more than once to preserve flavor and texture.
- Use leftover steak slices in sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for salads to diversify meals.
- Always check leftovers for any off smells or changes in texture before eating to ensure food safety.
By following these storage and leftover practices, we can enjoy the comforting taste of Amish Wedding Steak long after the original meal.
Conclusion
Amish Wedding Steak offers a delicious way to bring warmth and tradition to any table. Its tender beef and savory mushroom gravy create a comforting meal that’s both simple and satisfying. By following the right techniques and pairing it with thoughtful sides, we can easily enjoy this timeless recipe at home.
With a little preparation and care, this dish becomes a centerpiece that invites togetherness and celebration. Whether for a family dinner or special occasion, Amish Wedding Steak delivers flavors that linger and memories that last.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Amish Wedding Steak?
Amish Wedding Steak is a slow-cooked beef dish known for its tender texture and savory mushroom and onion gravy. Despite its name, it is not traditionally served at Amish weddings but is a beloved comfort food in Amish communities.
What ingredients are needed to make Amish Wedding Steak?
Key ingredients include beef round steak, buttermilk for marinating, onions, mushrooms, beef broth, flour, and seasonings. Simple ingredients create a rich and hearty dish.
How does buttermilk affect the steak?
Buttermilk tenderizes the steak by breaking down muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat after cooking.
What equipment is essential for preparing this dish?
A heavy skillet or cast-iron pan, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, cutting board, sharp knife, and other basic utensils are necessary for precise preparation.
How long should the steak marinate?
For best results, marinate the steak in buttermilk for several hours or overnight to maximize tenderness and flavor absorption.
What are the cooking methods for Amish Wedding Steak?
The steak can be grilled, baked, or slow-cooked. Cooking times and temperatures vary, but resting the steak after cooking helps retain juiciness.
How is the mushroom and onion gravy made?
Sauté onions and mushrooms, add flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in beef broth to make a smooth, savory gravy.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Classic sides include mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, buttered corn, roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, and a fresh garden salad.
Can I make Amish Wedding Steak ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the steak overnight and prepare the gravy base in advance to save time and enhance flavors on the day of cooking.
How should leftovers be stored?
Cool steak and gravy to room temperature, store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a bit of beef broth to keep the steak moist and maintain the gravy’s texture.
Can leftover Amish Wedding Steak be used in other meals?
Yes, leftovers can be repurposed in sandwiches, stews, or scrambled with eggs for an easy and flavorful meal extension.