Joe Roshkovsky
Zweibelrostbraten: A Succulent Austrian Fried Onion Steak Delight
Zweibelrostbraten, a traditional Austrian dish, combines the deeply satisfying flavors of juicy beef steak with crispy fried onions. This recipe brings a hearty, flavorful meal to the table, perfect for special occasions or a comforting dinner. The rich gravy and caramelized onions meld together to create an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
– 4 beef steaks (Rump or sirloin, about 1 inch thick)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
For the Onion Topping:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons flour
– 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Gravy:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon flour
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup dry red wine
– Salt and pepper to taste
– A pinch of paprika
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onion Topping:
– Slice the onions thinly and toss them in the flour until they are well coated.
– Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
– Once the oil is hot, add the floured onions and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 7-10 minutes.
– Remove the fried onions from the oil and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
2. Cook the Steaks:
– Season the steaks with salt and pepper on both sides.
– In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
– Add the steaks to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
– Remove the steaks from the skillet and keep warm.
3. Make the Gravy:
– In the same skillet, add the butter and chopped onions, cooking until the onions are translucent.
– Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
– Gradually add the beef broth and red wine, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
– Let the gravy simmer until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
– Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
4. Assemble the Dish:
– Place the cooked steaks on a serving platter.
– Pour the gravy over the steaks.
– Top with the crispy onions.
Serve this delicious Zweibelrostbraten with a side of mashed potatoes, spaetzle, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the robust flavors and delightful textures of this classic Austrian dish.
