Crock Pot Swiss Steak

Directions

1. Prepare the crock pot by spraying the liner with cooking spray or line it with a slow cooker liner.
2. If using boneless top-blade steaks, lightly pound steaks with the meat tenderizer. Cube steaks are sold already tenderized. Pat steaks dry with paper towels.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Sear the steaks for 2 minutes per side, until browned. Transfer the swiss steaks to the bottom of the slow cooker.
4. Turn the heat to medium, add 1 tablespoon oil and sliced onions to the pot. Saute until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, thyme, and tomato paste, then sprinkle with flour. Cook for 1 minute. Stir in tomato puree and chicken broth and stir to deglaze the skillet.
5. Pour over the onion broth mixture and the steaks and top with cherry tomatoes. Add the lid to the crock pot.
6. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, until swiss steaks are tender. Skim fat from sauce, and pour over steaks before serving.