salisbury steak recipe

Salisbury steak is a classic comfort food that has been a staple in American cuisine for over a century. This dish, made from seasoned ground beef patties smothered in a rich mushroom gravy, is perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal. The origins of Salisbury steak trace back to Dr. James Salisbury, who promoted it as a health food in the 19th century. For more about the history and origins of Salisbury steak, visit the history of Salisbury steak.

Ingredients  for salisbury steak recipe

To create a delicious Salisbury steak, you’ll need the following essential ingredients:

• Ground Beef: 1.5 pounds
• Bread Crumbs: 1/2 cup
• Egg: 1 large
• Onion Soup Mix: 1 packet or 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
• Milk: 1/2 cup
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

Optional ingredients for added flavor:

• Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Ketchup: 1 tablespoon

For more on the health benefits of mushrooms, check out this detailed guide.

Preparing the Patties

Mixing the Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, onion soup mix, and milk.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Shaping the Patties

1. Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions.
2. Shape each portion into an oval-shaped patty, about 3/4 inch thick.

Cooking the Patties

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the patties and cook for about 3 minutes per side, until they are nicely browned.
3. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Mushroom Gravy

Sautéing the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oil.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Creating the Roux

1. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and let it melt.
2. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the melted butter and stir to combine.
3. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light brown color.

For detailed instructions on how to make a roux, check out this guide.

Combining Ingredients

1. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
2. Add the Worcestershire sauce and ketchup.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Part 2

Cooking the salisbury steak recipe

Simmering in Gravy

1. Return the seared patties to the skillet.
2. Spoon some of the gravy over the top of each patty.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the patties simmer in the gravy for about 15 minutes, or until fully cooked through.

Adjusting Seasonings

1. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
2. For a deeper flavor, you can add a splash more Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Traditional sides and modern twists include:

• Mashed Potatoes: A classic side that pairs perfectly with the rich gravy.
• Green Beans: Lightly steamed or sautéed.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls to soak up the delicious gravy.
• Egg Noodles: For a modern twist, serve the Salisbury steak over a bed of egg noodles.
• Side Salad: A fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a typical nutritional breakdown for a serving of Salisbury steak:

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sodium: 700-900mg

What is Salisbury Steak Sauce Made Of?

Salisbury steak sauce, also known as gravy, is a rich and flavorful component that elevates the dish from a simple meat patty to a hearty and satisfying meal. The sauce typically combines savory and umami flavors with a smooth texture. Here are the key ingredients and steps to making Salisbury steak sauce:

Key Ingredients:

1. Butter: Used as a base to sauté the vegetables and create the roux.
2. Flour: Combined with butter to form a roux, which thickens the sauce.
3. Beef Broth: Provides the main liquid component, giving the sauce depth and richness.
4. Onions and Mushrooms: Sautéed to add texture and enhance the umami flavor.
5. Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a tangy, slightly sweet, and savory flavor.
6. Ketchup: Contributes sweetness and acidity, balancing the flavors.
7. Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic note.
8. Salt and Pepper: For seasoning.

Preparation Steps:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Start by heating butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sliced mushrooms. Cook until they are soft and the onions are translucent.
2. Make the Roux: Add more butter to the skillet, if necessary, and sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir continuously to combine the flour and butter, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light brown.
3. Add the Liquid: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Season the Sauce: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

The result is a savory, rich gravy that complements the Salisbury steak perfectly, enhancing its flavor and providing a luscious, velvety texture.

How is Salisbury Steak Different from Hamburger?

While Salisbury steak and hamburger might look similar at first glance, they have distinct differences in ingredients, preparation, and serving style. Here’s a detailed comparison to highlight how these two dishes differ:

Ingredients:

1. Salisbury Steak:
   • Typically made with ground beef mixed with bread crumbs, egg, and seasonings such as onion soup mix or finely chopped onions, Worcestershire sauce, and sometimes ketchup.
   • Often includes additional flavorings like garlic, parsley, and sometimes milk to keep the patties moist.
2. Hamburger:
   • Primarily made with ground beef, occasionally with added seasonings like salt, pepper, and sometimes garlic powder.
   • The focus is usually on the quality of the beef, with minimal additional ingredients to enhance the meat’s natural flavor.

Preparation:

1. Salisbury Steak:
   • The beef mixture is shaped into oval patties and seared in a skillet.
   • The patties are then simmered in a rich mushroom gravy, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to absorb the sauce.
2. Hamburger:
   • The beef is formed into round patties and typically grilled, pan-fried, or broiled.
   • Hamburgers are served in a bun with various toppings and condiments, such as lettuce, tomato, cheese, ketchup, mustard, and pickles.

Serving Style:

1. Salisbury Steak:
   • Served as a main dish on a plate, often accompanied by mashed potatoes, vegetables, or other side dishes.
   • The patties are smothered in a savory mushroom gravy, which is a key component of the dish.
2. Hamburger:
   • Served in a bun, usually as a handheld meal.
   • Toppings and condiments are added according to personal preference, and the focus is on the combination of flavors from the beef and the toppings.

In summary, Salisbury steak is a more elaborate dish with a rich gravy and additional ingredients mixed into the beef, while hamburgers are simpler, focusing on the quality of the beef and served in a bun with various toppings.

Why Do They Call It salisbury steak recipe

The name “Salisbury steak” traces back to Dr. James Henry Salisbury, an American physician who lived in the 19th century. He is credited with inventing the dish and promoting it as a health food. Here’s a detailed look at the origins and reasoning behind the name:

Dr. James Henry Salisbury:

1. Medical Background:
   • Dr. Salisbury was a proponent of a meat-centric diet and believed that many health issues were caused by carbohydrates.
   • He conducted extensive research on diet and nutrition during the Civil War, focusing on the benefits of minced beef for soldiers.
2. Dietary Theories:
   • Dr. Salisbury advocated for the consumption of lean, minced beef patties as a primary source of nutrition.
   • He believed that ground beef was easier to digest and provided essential nutrients needed for good health.

Creation of Salisbury Steak:

1. Recipe Development:
   • Dr. Salisbury developed the recipe for what we now call Salisbury steak as a way to promote his dietary beliefs.
   • The original recipe involved finely chopping or grinding lean beef, forming it into patties, and cooking it thoroughly.
2. Promotion and Popularization:
   • Dr. Salisbury published works on his dietary theories and included recipes for his beef patties.
   • The dish gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming known as Salisbury steak in honor of its creator.

Naming the Dish:

1. Recognition:
   • The name “Salisbury steak” was adopted to honor Dr. Salisbury and his contributions to dietary science.
   • It distinguished the dish from other types of ground beef preparations, highlighting its unique origins and intended health benefits.
2. Cultural Impact:
   • The dish became a staple in American cuisine, particularly during the early 20th century.
   • It remains popular today as a comforting, hearty meal, often associated with home-cooked dinners and classic American fare.

 

What Do You Eat Salisbury Steak With?

Salisbury steak is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. Here are some popular and delicious accompaniments to enjoy with Salisbury steak:

Traditional Sides:

1. Mashed Potatoes:
   • Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice, providing a perfect base to soak up the rich mushroom gravy.
   • You can add butter, cream, or garlic to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
2. Green Beans:
   • Lightly steamed or sautéed green beans add a fresh and crunchy contrast to the rich and savory steak.
   • Toss them with a bit of butter, garlic, and lemon juice for added zest.
3. Dinner Rolls:
   • Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are great for sopping up any leftover gravy on your plate.
   • Serve warm with a pat of butter for extra indulgence.
4. Corn:
   • Sweet corn, either on the cob or kernels, provides a nice sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the Salisbury steak.
   • Try grilling the corn or making a simple corn salad for variety.

Modern Twists:

1. Egg Noodles:
   • Serve the Salisbury steak over a bed of egg noodles for a comforting and hearty meal.
   • The noodles can easily absorb the gravy, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
2. Rice:
   • White or brown rice is a versatile side that pairs well with the savory steak and gravy.
   • You can also try flavored rice, like garlic butter rice or herbed rice, for an extra layer of taste.
3. Roasted Vegetables:
   • A mix of roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers adds a healthy and colorful side to your plate.
   • Roast them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs for a deliciously caramelized flavor.
4. Side Salad:
   • A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich Salisbury steak.
   • Add some nuts or cheese for added texture and flavor.

Other Complementary Sides:

1. Coleslaw:
   • A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a creamy or vinegar-based dressing offers a crunchy and refreshing side.
   • The acidity of the coleslaw helps cut through the richness of the steak and gravy.
2. Garlic Bread:
   • Crispy garlic bread is another excellent option for mopping up the flavorful gravy.
   • You can make it with a baguette or your favorite bread, topped with butter, garlic, and parsley.
3. Creamed Spinach:
   • Creamed spinach is a rich and creamy side that complements the savory steak perfectly.
   • Made with fresh spinach, cream, and cheese, it adds a luxurious touch to the meal.

 

FAQ 

What is salisbury steak recipe made of?

Salisbury steak is made from a mixture of ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, onion soup mix, and seasonings. The patties are typically served with a rich mushroom gravy.

How do you keep Salisbury steak from falling apart?

To keep Salisbury steak from falling apart, ensure that the ground beef mixture is well combined and that the patties are cooked thoroughly on each side to form a crust. Adding an egg and bread crumbs helps bind the ingredients together.

Can you freeze Salisbury steak?

Yes, you can freeze Salisbury steak. After cooking, let the patties cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Is Salisbury steak healthy?

Salisbury steak can be a healthy option if made with lean ground beef and served with nutrient-rich sides like vegetables and whole grains. Be mindful of the sodium content and use lower-sodium options when possible.

What’s the difference between Salisbury steak and hamburger steak?

Salisbury steak typically includes ingredients like bread crumbs, egg, and onion soup mix, which are not commonly found in hamburger steaks. Additionally, Salisbury steak is usually served with a rich gravy, while hamburger steaks may be served with or without gravy.

Conclusion

Salisbury steak is a versatile and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of seasoned beef and rich mushroom gravy. By following this comprehensive guide, you can create your own delicious Salisbury steak at home. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

For more inspiration, you might enjoy trying the chipotle chicken recipe or exploring other comforting dishes like the biscuits and gravy recipe available on Granny’s Bites.

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