Slow cookers are awesome Dump everything in, turn it on, and come home to a hearty, home-cooked meal! But can you really get tender, delicious results cooking a lean cut like salmon cut beef in a slow cooker? I was curious so I did some experimenting. Read on for the juicy details!
What is Salmon Cut Beef Anyway?
First things first – what the heck is salmon cut beef? Good question! Here’s a quick rundown
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It’s also called sirloin tip or tri-tip
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Comes from the back/hindquarter region of the cow
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Resembles the shape of a salmon filet (hence the name!)
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It’s a lean, boneless roast usually 2-3 pounds
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Since it’s lean, it can get tough if cooked too fast
Can You Cook It in a Slow Cooker?
Now to tackle the million dollar question – can you cook salmon cut beef in a slow cooker?
The answer is: absolutely! But there are some tips and tricks to make sure it turns out juicy and tender.
Slow cooking is great for breaking down tough cuts into fork-tender deliciousness. The key is to give that lean salmon cut beef plenty of moisture and time.
Here’s how to do it right:
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Brown the meat first – This adds tons of flavor and prevents drying out
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Use plenty of liquid – Cover about halfway with broth, wine, etc
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Cook LONG and LOW – We’re talking 6-8 hours on low
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Slice against the grain – Cutting across the muscle fibers makes it more tender
Follow those guidelines and your slow cooker salmon cut beef will be succulent perfection!
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
To ensure tender, juicy results, here are the detailed steps for slow cooker salmon cut beef:
Prep
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Pat roast dry and season generously with salt and pepper
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Allow to come up to room temp for even cooking
Sear
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Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat
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Brown roast well on all sides, 2-3 minutes per side
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This seals in juices and adds a ton of flavor
Slow Cook
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Place seared roast in slow cooker and add veggies (onion, carrots, etc)
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Pour in 1-2 cups broth, red wine, or combo
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Liquid should come about halfway up the meat
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Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours
Finish
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Use meat thermometer – target temp is 145°F
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Remove roast and let rest 10-15 minutes
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Slice against the grain for tender slices
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Spoon over juices from cooker and enjoy!
See? With the right techniques, salmon cut beef can become meltingly tender in the slow cooker!
Helpful Tips and Tricks
To guarantee your slow cooker salmon cut beef is a success, keep these handy tips in mind:
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Add aromatics like garlic, thyme, rosemary
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Splash in some red wine or balsamic for extra flavor
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Cook on low, NOT high (to prevent drying out)
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Use a thermometer – don’t overcook!
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Let meat rest before slicing (very important)
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Slice against the grain for tenderness
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Save juices for gravy or au jus dip
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Freeze leftovers for quick weeknight meals
Stick to those suggestions and your salmon cut beef is sure to impress!
Creative Recipe Ideas
Once you’ve nailed the cooking method, get creative with recipes and seasoning blends. Here are some tasty slow cooker salmon cut beef ideas:
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Italian – basil, oregano, tomatoes, red wine
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Southwestern – cumin, chili powder, peppers, beans
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Greek – lemon, garlic, olives, artichokes
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Asian – soy, ginger, sesame, garlic, chili sauce
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Herbed – rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic
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Barbecue – ketchup, mustard, chili powder, Worcestershire
The possibilities are endless! Use your imagination to turn basic salmon cut beef into something spectacular.
FAQs About Slow Cooker Salmon Cut Beef
You’ve got questions, I’ve got answers! Here are some common FAQs:
Is marinating required?
Nope, just seasoning. Marinade doesn’t fully penetrate.
What temp should it reach?
145°F for medium rare. Use a meat thermometer.
How much liquid is needed?
1-2 cups, enough to cover halfway.
Should you remove fat cap?
No! It bastes the meat and adds moisture.
Does order of ingredients matter?
Nope, just submerge meat halfway in liquid.
Can you cook from frozen?
Not recommended – thaw completely first.
See? No question is too silly when it comes to slow cooker success!
The Verdict on Slow Cooker Salmon Cut Beef
Well there you have it! With the proper techniques, salmon cut beef can become fall-apart tender in the slow cooker.
The keys are searing first, cooking low and slow, using plenty of liquid, and slicing against the grain. Following my tips and recipe ideas will ensure mouthwatering results every time.
Now get out there and start turning tough salmon cut beef into the ultimate tender, juicy roast beef. Your family will thank you for this hearty, homestyle meal. Slow cooking for the win!
