Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak
Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is a classic American comfort food where tough cuts of beef are tenderized by pounding or braising in a savory tomato-based sauce with vegetables like onions, celery, and bell peppers. It's a hearty, slow-cooked dish that transforms economical cuts into a flavorful, fall-apart tender meal.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is primarily high in protein from the beef, with moderate fat content depending on the cut used, and provides key nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. A typical serving generally ranges from 350 to 500 calories, with the tomato and vegetable sauce adding vitamins and fiber.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Iron | 5.5 mg |
| Potassium | 680 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.5 mcg |
| Zinc | 8 mg |
| Phosphorus | 320 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 10 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.6 mg |
| Selenium | 35 mcg |
Per 1 serving (about 280 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it's a prime example of 'make-do' American home cooking from the early 20th century, using mechanical tenderization and long braising to make tougher, affordable cuts delicious. Nutritionally, the slow cooking process helps break down collagen, making the protein more digestible and the dish a good source of easily absorbed minerals.
