Introduction
Chicken fried steak is a classic comfort food that combines tenderness and flavor. This dish features a breaded and fried steak served with creamy gravy, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, this recipe captures the essence of home-cooked goodness.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- Steak (round, sirloin, or cube steak, about 1 pound)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flour (for dredging, about 1 cup)
- Egg (1 large, beaten)
- Milk (1 cup)
- Oil (for frying, about 1 cup)
- Butter (for gravy, about 4 tablespoons)
- Flour (for gravy, about 1/4 cup)
- Milk (for gravy, about 2 cups)
- Seasoning (optional, such as garlic powder or cayenne pepper)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Preparation Steps
1. Begin by seasoning the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Set up a dredging station with a plate of flour, a bowl with the beaten egg mixed with milk, and another plate for extra flour.
3. Dip each piece of steak into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour, ensuring an even coating.
4. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and fry the breaded steaks until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Once the steaks are cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside, keeping them warm.
6. In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in the flour for the gravy. Cook for 1-2 minutes before slowly adding the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
7. Allow the gravy to thicken, seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
8. Serve the chicken fried steak hot, topped with creamy gravy for a delightful meal. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
To begin, take the cube steak and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure the coating adheres properly.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
In a shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. In another shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs and seasonings. This assembly will streamline the breading process.
Step 3: Season the Cube Steak
Sprinkle the cube steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Dredge the Meat
Coat each piece of cubed steak in the flour first, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mix. Ensure that each piece is well-covered.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan for frying.
Step 6: Fry the Steak
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded steak pieces to the skillet. Cook them for about 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Drain Excess Oil
After frying, remove the steak from the pan and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 8: Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, use the remaining drippings to create a gravy. Whisk in flour and pour in milk gradually, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
Step 9: Serve
Plate the chicken-fried steak and generously ladle the homemade gravy on top before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Choosing the Right Cut
It is recommended to use cube steak for this recipe as it is tender and cooks quickly.
Note 2: For Crispy Texture
Ensure that the oil is hot before adding the steak to achieve a crispy coating. Test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles, it’s ready.
Note 3: Variations in Gravy
Feel free to enhance the gravy by adding sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Pairing Suggestions for Chicken-Fried Steak
Chicken-fried steak pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider adding cornbread or biscuits.
Why Chicken-Fried Steak is a Comfort Food
This dish often stirs up feelings of nostalgia for many, reminding them of home-cooked meals. The combination of crispy steak and savory gravy is a quintessential comfort food that warms both the heart and the palate.
Exploring Southern Cooking
Exploring chicken-fried steak opens up a gateway to Southern cuisine. Each state has its twist on classic dishes, showcasing regional ingredients and preparation methods that enrich this flavorful culinary tradition.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Meat
To achieve a tender and flavorful chicken-fried steak, it’s essential to choose the right cut of meat, such as sirloin or round steak. Pound it gently with a meat mallet to ensure even thickness and tenderness.
Breading the Steak
Create a flavorful breading by coating the steak in seasoned flour, then dipping it in egg wash, and finally covering it with breadcrumbs. This three-step process helps achieve a crunchy, golden exterior.
Frying Techniques
Fry the breaded steak in a hot skillet with oil. The oil should be hot enough to achieve a nice sizzle when the meat is added, ensuring a perfect crispy coating.
Making Gravy
Use the drippings left in the skillet after frying to make a rich, creamy gravy. Incorporate flour into the drippings, then slowly add milk, whisking until smooth and thick.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, while traditional chicken-fried steak uses beef, you can substitute with pork or chicken for a different flavor.
What can I serve with chicken-fried steak?
Popular sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw, which complement the dish well.
Is chicken-fried steak gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives, such as almond flour.
Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gravy ahead of time and reheat it before serving, ensuring a quick and easy meal.
Conclusion
Chicken-fried steak is a classic dish that combines comforting flavors and textures, making it perfect for family meals or special occasions. The methods used for breading and frying ensure a delicious result every time. Are you excited to try this recipe and make it your own?
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