We love diving into the rich traditions of Amish cuisine, and Amish Wedding Steak stands out as a hearty favorite from Pennsylvania’s Amish communities. This comforting dish, often served at celebrations, combines tender beef with simple, wholesome flavors that bring families together around the table.
In our kitchen, we’ve simplified this classic recipe so you can recreate its rustic charm at home. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy authentic tastes that evoke warmth and togetherness, making every meal feel special.
Ingredients
For our Amish Wedding Steak recipe, we focus on simple, high-quality ingredients that capture the hearty, comforting essence of this Pennsylvania Amish classic. Below, we list them in the order they’re used during preparation, including precise measurements and any necessary prep notes to ensure accuracy and ease.
- Beef round steak: 2 pounds, cut into ½-inch thick slices – Choose well-marbled cuts for tenderness, and pound them lightly with a meat mallet to about ¼-inch thickness before use.
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup – Used for dredging; sift it first to remove lumps and enhance the breading’s crispiness.
- Large eggs: 2, beaten – Whisk them thoroughly in a shallow bowl to create a smooth coating that helps the breading adhere.
- Milk: ½ cup – Combine with the beaten eggs for a richer dip; use whole milk for the best flavor and texture.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon – Added to the flour mixture; season generously to bring out the steak’s natural flavors.
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground – Mix into the flour for a subtle kick that complements the dish’s rustic profile.
- Vegetable oil: ½ cup – For frying; heat to 350°F in a skillet to achieve a golden, crispy exterior on the steak.
- Beef broth: 2 cups – Used for the gravy; opt for low-sodium to control seasoning.
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped – Sautéed in the gravy base to add a sweet, aromatic depth.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons – Melted for the gravy roux; unsalted variety allows better seasoning control.
These ingredients highlight the straightforward yet flavorful nature of Amish Wedding Steak, ensuring a meal that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
Equipment Needed
With our key ingredients like beef round steak and eggs assembled, we now turn to the essential equipment that helps us craft a tender, flavorful Amish Wedding Steak. Gathering the right tools ensures smooth preparation and allows us to achieve that perfect golden crust and juicy interior.
To prepare this rustic dish, we recommend the following equipment. We’ve organized them into categories for clarity:
- Meat Mallet or Tenderizer: This tool is crucial for pounding the beef round steak to the ideal thickness, ensuring our steak becomes tender and absorbs flavors effectively.
- Large Mixing Bowls (at least 2): We use these for combining ingredients like flour and eggs, providing ample space to mix without spills and maintain a clean workspace.
- Whisk or Fork: Ideal for blending the egg mixture smoothly, helping us create a consistent batter that coats the steak evenly for that signature Amish texture.
- Skillet or Frying Pan (10-12 inches, non-stick or cast iron preferred): Our go-to for searing the breaded steak, as it delivers even heat distribution and helps lock in moisture for a crispy exterior.
- Tongs or Spatula: These allow us to flip and handle the steak safely during cooking, preventing breakage and ensuring even browning on all sides.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in our recipe, so we rely on these for precise measurements of milk, flour, and seasonings to replicate authentic Amish flavors.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: While simple, these are necessary for trimming the steak and preparing any additional components, making our prep process efficient and safe.
By having these items ready, we set the stage for a seamless cooking experience that highlights the comforting essence of Amish Wedding Steak.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through crafting our hearty Amish Wedding Steak with simple, step-by-step precision to deliver that comforting, nostalgic flavor.
Prep
Before we begin cooking, let’s prepare our Amish Wedding Steak components for optimal tenderness and flavor. Follow these steps to ensure even coating and a juicy result:
- Tenderize the steak: Place the beef round steak on a cutting board and use a meat mallet to pound it to about 1/4-inch thickness. This step breaks down the fibers, making the meat exceptionally tender and ready to absorb flavors.
- Prepare the breading station: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to blend the seasonings evenly. In a separate bowl, beat 2 eggs with 1/2 cup of milk until smooth, creating a golden mixture that will help the breading adhere perfectly.
- Dredge the steak: Dip each pounded steak piece into the egg mixture, ensuring full coverage, then coat it generously in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour for a light, even layer that promises a crispy, irresistible crust when cooked.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, we move to cooking our Amish Wedding Steak in a hot skillet, focusing on achieving a perfect sear that locks in juices and develops rich, savory flavors.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil or butter. Let it heat until it shimmers, indicating it’s ready for searing and filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma of browning goodness.
- Sear the steak: Carefully add the breaded steak pieces to the hot skillet, cooking 2-3 pieces at a time to avoid crowding. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping once with tongs for even cooking. The steak should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safety and tenderness—use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Rest the meat: Remove the cooked steaks from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest for 5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and enhancing the succulent, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Serve
To wrap up, we focus on presenting our Amish Wedding Steak in a way that highlights its comforting appeal, making it a centerpiece for family gatherings.
- Plate the dish: Arrange the rested steaks on serving plates, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and subtle freshness that complements the hearty flavors.
- Add accompaniments: Pair each serving with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or gravy made from the skillet drippings. This combination creates a warm, satisfying meal that evokes the togetherness of Amish traditions, ensuring every bite is flavorful and fulfilling.
Make-Ahead Tips
To simplify preparing our Amish Wedding Steak, we recommend these practical strategies that maintain its comforting flavors and tender texture. By planning ahead, we can ensure a seamless cooking process while preserving the dish’s hearty, nostalgic appeal.
Preparing the Steak in Advance
We suggest tenderizing and breading the steak up to 24 hours before cooking. Start by pounding the beef round steak with a meat mallet to about 1/4-inch thickness, which enhances its juicy tenderness. Coat the steak in a mixture of all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper, then dip it into the egg-milk blend. Arrange the breaded pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This step allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a crispy, golden crust when seared later.
Mixing Ingredients Ahead of Time
For efficiency, we can prepare the breading station components in advance. Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and any desired herbs like paprika in a shallow bowl or resealable bag—store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Similarly, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/2 cup of milk in a separate bowl, then cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day. These pre-made mixtures save time and ensure consistent seasoning, making our Amish Wedding Steak assembly effortless and flavorful.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
If we cook the steak fully ahead of time, let it cool completely before storing. Place the seared steaks in an airtight container or wrap them individually in foil, and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw frozen steaks overnight in the refrigerator, then warm them in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes per side until heated through and reaching an internal temperature of 145°F. For optimal results, avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess—re-searing adds back that irresistible crispiness and keeps the meat succulent.
| Make-Ahead Step | Preparation Time | Storage Duration | Reheating Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tenderizing and breading | Up to 30 minutes | Up to 24 hours (refrigerated) | N/A (cook fresh) |
| Mixing flour and egg blends | 5-10 minutes | Up to 2 days (flour at room temp; egg mix refrigerated) | N/A |
| Fully cooked steaks | Varies by recipe | Up to 3 days (refrigerated) or 3 months (frozen) | Skillet over medium heat |
Conclusion
We’ve loved diving into Amish Wedding Steak and its timeless appeal
It brings families together in ways that feel truly special
Let’s make this recipe our own and keep those traditions alive in our kitchens
You’ll find it’s an easy way to create heartfelt moments at every meal
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Amish Wedding Steak?
Amish Wedding Steak is a hearty, comforting dish from Pennsylvania’s Amish communities, often enjoyed during family celebrations. It features tenderized beef round steak breaded and fried for a crispy exterior, symbolizing warmth and togetherness. This rustic meal brings people together with its simple, flavorful profile.
What ingredients are needed for Amish Wedding Steak?
The key ingredients include beef round steak, all-purpose flour, eggs, milk, and basic seasonings. These high-quality, simple components create a nostalgic, satisfying meal that captures the essence of Amish traditions, focusing on fresh flavors without complexity.
What equipment is required to prepare Amish Wedding Steak?
You’ll need a meat mallet or tenderizer for pounding the steak, large mixing bowls for ingredients, a whisk or fork for blending, a skillet for searing, tongs or a spatula for handling, and measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. A cutting board and sharp knife help with prep, ensuring a seamless cooking process.
How do you prepare and cook Amish Wedding Steak?
Start by tenderizing the steak, then set up a breading station with seasoned flour and an egg mixture. Bread the steak and sear in a hot skillet until golden and crispy, reaching a safe internal temperature. Let it rest to enhance tenderness, then garnish with parsley and serve with sides like mashed potatoes for a warm meal.
Can I make Amish Wedding Steak ahead of time?
Yes, you can tenderize and bread the steak up to 24 hours in advance to let flavors meld, or prepare the breading station components for up to two days. For fully cooked steak, store and reheat by re-searing to restore crispiness and juiciness, making it easy for busy schedules while keeping the dish flavorful.
What are some tips for the best Amish Wedding Steak?
Tenderize the steak well for optimal texture, use fresh ingredients for authentic flavor, and ensure the skillet is hot for a crispy crust. Let the cooked steak rest before serving to redistribute juices, and pair with classic sides like green beans. For make-ahead, store breaded steak in the fridge to enhance taste.