Cube Steak with Balsamic Onion Gravy

#### Instructions:

**1. Prepare the Cube Steaks:**
Season both sides of the cube steaks with salt and pepper. Let them sit for a few minutes at room temperature to help them cook evenly.

**2. Cook the Cube Steaks:**
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cube steaks and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steaks, but they should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or to your preferred level of doneness. Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside, covering them loosely with foil to keep warm.

**3. Make the Balsamic Onion Gravy:**
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced onions. Sauté the onions for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

**4. Add the Balsamic Vinegar and Broth:**
Pour in the balsamic vinegar, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet (this adds extra flavor to the gravy). Let the vinegar simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, add the beef broth and brown sugar, stirring to combine.

**5. Simmer the Gravy:**
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. If the gravy gets too thick, you can add a little more beef broth to reach your preferred texture. Stir in the thyme and taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed.

**6. Finish and Serve:**
Return the cooked cube steaks to the skillet, spooning some of the balsamic onion gravy over them. Let the steaks simmer in the gravy for another 2-3 minutes to soak up the flavors. Once done, remove from the heat and serve the steaks with the rich balsamic onion gravy spooned on top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

#### Tips for the Best Cube Steak with Balsamic Onion Gravy:

– **Tenderizing the Cube Steak:** Cube steaks are naturally tenderized, but if you find they need a little extra help, you can pound them lightly with a meat mallet before cooking to further soften them.

– **Caramelizing the Onions:** The key to a great gravy is properly caramelized onions. Be patient while cooking them to develop their sweetness and deep flavor. This step adds a lot of richness to the dish.

– **Substitute for Cube Steak:** If you can’t find cube steak, you can substitute with other cuts of beef, such as sirloin or round steaks. Just be sure to tenderize them a bit more if necessary.

– **Add Veggies:** You can add extra vegetables to the gravy for added flavor and texture. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots all make great additions.

– **Serve with Sides:** This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes is perfect for soaking up the balsamic onion gravy.

#### Why You’ll Love Cube Steak with Balsamic Onion Gravy:

Cube Steak with Balsamic Onion Gravy is the ultimate comfort food with a sophisticated twist. The tender cube steaks combined with the rich, tangy gravy create a flavor profile that is savory, sweet, and deeply satisfying. The balsamic vinegar gives the gravy a slight tang that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the caramelized onions and brown sugar. It’s a meal that’s both easy to make and elegant enough to serve for special occasions.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that’s sure to impress guests, this recipe will definitely become a go-to in your meal rotation. Enjoy this flavorful and hearty dish with your favorite sides for a comforting, filling meal.