Hamburger steak, also called Salisbury steak, has its origins in 19th-century America. The dish is named after Dr. James Salisbury, a physician who recommended a diet of minced beef to his patients.
The concept of forming ground beef into patties and serving them with gravy and onions quickly became popular in American cuisine. The term “hamburger steak” is linked to Hamburg, Germany, where minced or ground meat dishes have long been part of the culinary tradition. German immigrants introduced these recipes and cooking methods to the United States, where they were adapted into the dish we recognize today.
Hamburger steak has since evolved to incorporate various seasonings, fillers, and toppings, becoming a versatile comfort food enjoyed globally.
Key Takeaways
- Hamburger steak has a long history dating back to the 18th century, when it was known as “Hamburg-style beef.”
- The key ingredients for hamburger steak with onions and gravy include ground beef, onions, beef broth, and seasonings.
- To prepare and cook hamburger steak with onions and gravy, start by shaping the ground beef into patties, then sautéing them with onions and making a savory gravy.
- Tips for making the perfect hamburger steak include using high-quality ground beef, seasoning the patties well, and ensuring they are cooked to the desired level of doneness.
- Hamburger steak with onions and gravy can be served with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients for Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy
Ingredients for the Hamburger Steak Patties
For the hamburger steak patties, you’ll need ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. These ingredients will help bind the ground beef together and add flavor to the patties.
Ingredients for the Onions and Gravy
For the onions and gravy, you’ll need onions, beef broth, flour, butter, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and thyme. It’s essential to use ground beef with a good fat content to ensure the patties are juicy and flavorful. A mixture of lean and fatty ground beef will yield the best results.
The Role of Each Ingredient
The breadcrumbs and egg act as binders to hold the patties together, while the Worcestershire sauce adds depth of flavor. The onions will caramelize and add sweetness to the dish, while the beef broth and flour will create a rich and savory gravy to smother the patties in. With these ingredients, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
How to Prepare and Cook Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy
To prepare and cook hamburger steak with onions and gravy, start by mixing the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl. Use your hands to gently combine the ingredients until they are well incorporated. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into oval or round patties.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. While the patties are cooking, slice the onions and set them aside. Once the patties are done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and add the sliced onions. Cook the onions until they are soft and caramelized, then sprinkle flour over them and stir to create a roux. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Season the gravy with salt, pepper, and thyme, then return the patties to the skillet and simmer for a few minutes until everything is heated through.
Tips for Making the Perfect Hamburger Steak
To make the perfect hamburger steak with onions and gravy, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to season the ground beef mixture well with salt, pepper, and other seasonings of your choice. This will ensure that the patties are flavorful and delicious.
Additionally, do not overwork the ground beef when mixing in the other ingredients, as this can result in tough and dense patties. When cooking the patties, make sure to use a hot skillet to achieve a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It’s important to cook the patties until they are fully cooked through to ensure food safety.
When making the gravy, be sure to cook the onions until they are caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness. Gradually adding the beef broth while stirring constantly will help create a smooth and lump-free gravy.
Serving Suggestions for Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy
Hamburger steak with onions and gravy is a hearty and comforting dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. One classic serving suggestion is to serve the hamburger steak alongside mashed potatoes or buttered noodles. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes or the tender bite of buttered noodles complements the rich and savory flavors of the dish.
Another popular option is to serve the hamburger steak with steamed vegetables such as green beans or carrots. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors of the vegetables provide a nice contrast to the hearty meat and gravy. Additionally, you can serve the dish with a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any leftover gravy on your plate.
Variations of Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy
Adding Depth and Freshness
You can add diced mushrooms to the gravy for an earthy flavor and extra depth. You can also mix in chopped herbs such as parsley or thyme into the ground beef mixture for added freshness.
Lighter Options
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for the patties. This will result in a leaner dish that is still packed with flavor.
Experimenting with Seasonings
For a twist on tradition, you can experiment with different seasonings such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder to give the dish a unique flavor profile.
Health Benefits of Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy
Hamburger steak with onions and gravy can be a nutritious and satisfying meal when prepared with wholesome ingredients. Lean ground beef is a good source of protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins that are essential for overall health. Onions are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can support immune function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
When prepared with minimal added fats and sodium, this dish can be part of a balanced diet that includes plenty of vegetables and whole grains. By choosing lean cuts of meat and incorporating plenty of vegetables into the meal, you can enjoy all the flavors of hamburger steak with onions and gravy while promoting good health.
FAQs
What is a hamburger steak?
A hamburger steak is a patty made from ground beef that is shaped like a steak. It is typically seasoned and cooked similar to a traditional steak.
How is hamburger steak with onions and gravy prepared?
To prepare hamburger steak with onions and gravy, seasoned ground beef patties are pan-fried and then topped with sautéed onions and a savory gravy made from beef broth and other seasonings.
What are the key ingredients for making hamburger steak with onions and gravy?
The key ingredients for making hamburger steak with onions and gravy include ground beef, onions, beef broth, flour, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
What are some common side dishes to serve with hamburger steak with onions and gravy?
Common side dishes to serve with hamburger steak with onions and gravy include mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or a side salad. These sides complement the hearty and savory flavors of the dish.