Chip steak is a thinly sliced beef cut, prepared by freezing the meat before slicing it. Most often, it’s cut from the round or sirloin parts of the cow, but other cuts can work too. Because the meat is sliced extremely thin, it cooks in seconds on a hot pan.
People love chip steak because it’s cheap, versatile, and quick to prepare. It’s perfect in cheesesteak sandwiches, tasty stir-fries filled with veggies, or even mixed into salads to add extra protein. Although chip steak generally comes from less expensive beef cuts, slicing it thin keeps the meat tender and flavorful.
The Origin of Chip Steak
In 1936, William Dubil, a Czechoslovak butcher from Pomona, California, unintentionally discovered chip steaks. It all started when a piece of bottom-round beef got frozen solid after resting against the refrigerator coils. Dubil decided to slice the tough, frozen meat into paper-thin pieces and was surprised to find that once thawed, the slices turned out juicy and fresh instead of spoiling. He realized that slicing beef this thin broke down its tough fibers, much like grinding would. Seeing an opportunity, Dubil quickly patented his method and teamed up with William Thomas Carpenter to introduce chip steaks to the market.
Check out Time Magazine’s Archive for the full story on this fascinating discovery and its lasting impact on the meat industry.
What Are the Other Names for Chip Steak?
Other popular names for chip steak in the United States include sizzle steak, minute steak, and sandwich steak.
Where to Buy Chip Steak?
Chip steak is typically found in the frozen meat section of most grocery stores or at local butcher shops. Online meat shops are another good option, especially for buying chip steak in bulk. Or, for a DIY twist, grab a lean cut of beef, pop it in the freezer for a bit, then slice it paper-thin yourself.
Chip Steak Meal Ideas
Chip steak isn’t just for sandwiches – it’s tasty in lots of dishes:
- Mexican Recipes: Chip steak goes great in tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. It’s quick to cook and adds delicious flavor.
- Salads: Add sliced chip steak to your salad for protein and flavor. It cooks quickly and pairs well with fresh veggies.
- Breakfasts: Chip steak cooks fast, making it perfect for breakfast. Pair it with eggs for a satisfying, protein-rich start to your day.
Cooking Tips: Because chip steak is thin, it’s best cooked quickly over high heat. A minute or two on a hot grill or skillet usually does the trick.