Sussex Style Steak With Mushrooms for the Crock Pot!
The aroma still brings me back. Sunday afternoons at my grandmother’s, the scent of slow-cooked beef and earthy mushrooms filling the air. She wasn’t a fancy cook, but her Sussex Style Steak, bubbling away in her ancient crock pot, was legendary. It was simple comfort food, the kind that warmed you from the inside out, and a reminder of simpler times spent with family around a well-loved table.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-10 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 10 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Yield: Approx. 6 servings
- Dietary Type: Generally suitable for Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free diets (check ingredients for specific needs)
Ingredients
- (2 lb) Flank Steak
- Salt
- Pepper
- ¼ cup Flour
- 1 small Red Onion, thinly sliced, or 8 Green Onions (white part only), thinly sliced
- ¼ cup Condensed Beef Broth, undiluted
- ¼ cup Dark Beer, or ¼ cup Beef Broth
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 3 Portabella Mushrooms (may add more)
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar, or 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar
- Soft Fresh Goat Cheese, crumbled (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Brush (for mushrooms)
- Deep Platter
Instructions
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Begin by preparing the flank steak. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy – this is your foundation for flavor.
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Lightly coat each side of the seasoned steak with flour. This will help create a lovely, thickened gravy as the dish cooks. Ensure the flour is evenly distributed.
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Place the floured steak at the bottom of your slow cooker. If your crock pot is smaller, it may be necessary to cut the steak in half for it to fit properly.
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Evenly distribute the sliced red onion (or green onions) over the top of the steak inside the slow cooker. This layer of aromatics will infuse the meat with a subtle sweetness as it cooks.
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Pour the undiluted condensed beef broth and dark beer (or alternative beef broth) over the steak and onions. The liquid should partially cover the meat; avoid submerging the steak entirely.
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Prepare the portabella mushrooms. Brush each mushroom with olive oil. This will help them retain moisture and develop a richer flavor during the slow cooking process.
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Arrange the brushed mushrooms evenly over the steak inside the slow cooker. Feel free to add more mushrooms if desired; they will shrink during cooking.
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Sprinkle the balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar) over the mushrooms. The vinegar will add a delightful tang and complexity to the dish.
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Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak and the efficiency of your slow cooker.
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Once the cooking time is complete, check the tenderness of the steak. It should be easily pierced with a fork and almost falling apart.
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Carefully transfer the steak and mushrooms to a deep platter. The platter will catch any excess gravy and make for an elegant presentation.
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If using, stir in the crumbled goat cheese into the gravy remaining in the slow cooker. The goat cheese will melt slightly, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce.
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Pour the gravy over the steak and mushrooms on the platter. Ensure that the steak is generously coated with the savory sauce.
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Serve immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Browning the steak: For an even deeper flavor, sear the steak in a hot pan before adding it to the slow cooker. This adds a lovely crust and intensifies the beefy taste.
- Thickening the gravy: If the gravy is too thin after cooking, remove the steak and mushrooms, then whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the gravy in the slow cooker and cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until thickened.
- Mushroom variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, for a unique flavor profile.
- Make-ahead prep: You can assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the steak and mushrooms the morning you plan to cook it.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve your Sussex Style Steak with mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or a simple green salad. The richness of the dish pairs perfectly with a hearty side.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the cooked steak and gravy for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
Nutritional Information
Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal | 23% |
| Total Fat | 20g | 31% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Cholesterol | 80mg | 27% |
| Sodium | 300mg | 13% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 15g | 5% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugars | 5g | N/A |
| Protein | 40g | 80% |
Variations & Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that the beef broth and beer (if using) are gluten-free. You can also substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the flank steak with large portabella mushroom caps. Marinate them in a balsamic vinegar and soy sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Wine Instead of Beer: Replace the dark beer with a dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for a richer flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dish for a little heat.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor complexity.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
A: While flank steak is recommended, you can also use skirt steak or a chuck roast. Keep in mind that chuck roast may require a longer cooking time.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Carrots, potatoes, or celery would be excellent additions. Add them to the slow cooker along with the onions.
Q: How do I know when the steak is done?
A: The steak is done when it is very tender and easily pierced with a fork. It should almost be falling apart.
Q: Can I make this recipe without the beer?
A: Yes, you can substitute the beer with additional beef broth. The beer adds a depth of flavor, but it’s not essential.
Q: Can I use dried onions instead of fresh?
A: While fresh onions are preferred, you can use 2 tablespoons of dried minced onion if necessary. Rehydrate them in a little warm water before adding them to the slow cooker.
Final Thoughts
Sussex Style Steak with Mushrooms is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients and slow cooking to create something truly comforting and delicious. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own memories around this classic dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make it your own. And most importantly, share it with the people you love. Perhaps serve with a robust red wine and crusty bread for mopping up all that delicious gravy. Enjoy!