Low-Points Slow Cooker Swiss Steak Recipe

This revised recipe is designed to be even more Weight Watchers friendly, focusing on reducing Points by utilizing lower-calorie ingredients and making a few strategic swaps.

Ingredients

For the Swiss Steak:

  • 6 average-sized beef blade steaks (approximately 1 1/2 pounds total, trimmed of visible fat)
  • 1 average-sized onion, sliced
  • 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
  • 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or another low-calorie plant-based milk)
  • 1/4 cup dry sherry (or white wine, optional)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with 2 tablespoons of almond flour for fewer carbs)
  • 4 teaspoons cooking spray or 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons mild paprika
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

  • Trim the Steaks: Trim any visible fat from the beef blade steaks to lower the fat content, making the dish more WW-friendly.
  • Slice Vegetables: Slice the onion and mushrooms evenly.

2. Season the Steaks

  • Season Lightly: Season the steaks with a modest amount of salt and black pepper.

3. Dredge in Flour

  • Coat with Flour: Lightly dredge the steaks in all-purpose flour, shaking off excess. For a lower-carb option, you can use 2 tablespoons of almond flour.

4. Brown the Steaks

  • Heat Oil or Cooking Spray: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, use 2 teaspoons of olive oil or a generous amount of cooking spray.
  • Brown Steaks: Add the steaks and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side. If using cooking spray, ensure it covers the pan evenly.

5. Prepare the Slow Cooker

  • Layer Vegetables: Place sliced onions and mushrooms in the bottom of the slow cooker.

6. Add the Steaks

  • Arrange Steaks: Place the browned steaks on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.

7. Prepare the Sauce

  • Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, unsweetened almond milk, and dry sherry (if using). Add minced thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Pour Over Steaks: Pour the sauce mixture over the steaks and vegetables.

8. Cook the Steak

  • Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

9. Check for Doneness

  • Test Meat: Check that the steaks are tender and easily shred with a fork.

10. Garnish and Serve

  • Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
  • Serve: Enjoy with a side of steamed vegetables or a small portion of a WW-friendly side.

Nutritional Information and Weight Watchers Points

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Each serving provides the following approximate nutritional information:

  • Calories: 230 kcal
  • Protein: 26g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Net Carbs: 8g
  • Fat: 9g

For Weight Watchers (WW) members, each serving of this Low-Points Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is approximately 5 SmartPoints. This estimation is based on the use of unsweetened almond milk and minimal oil, keeping the Points as low as possible while maintaining flavor and satisfaction.

Useful Tips and Additional Information

  1. Lean Cuts: Opt for lean cuts of beef and trim as much fat as possible to reduce the fat content and Points value.
  2. Milk Alternatives: Unsweetened almond milk is a lower-calorie alternative to cream or regular milk, making the recipe lighter and more WW-friendly.
  3. Oil Alternatives: Using cooking spray or reducing the amount of oil used for browning can significantly lower the Points.
  4. Sherry Substitution: If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can omit the sherry or substitute it with a splash of extra chicken broth or a tablespoon of white wine vinegar for acidity.
  5. Flour Substitutes: Almond flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for fewer carbs and a lighter option.
  6. Vegetable Variations: Adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can enhance the nutritional value and add variety.
  7. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
  8. Reheating Tips: Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the steak. Adding a little water or broth during reheating can help keep the sauce from thickening too much.

This Low-Points Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is a hearty, flavorful dish that supports your Weight Watchers goals while delivering a satisfying and comforting meal. Enjoy the tender steak and savory sauce with a variety of healthy sides for a well-rounded and delicious dining experience.