I absolutely adore Chicken Fried Steak! This Southern classic holds a special place in my heart (and my stomach). I remember the first time I tried it at my grandmother’s house—she’d whip up this crispy, golden goodness with a side of creamy gravy that could make you swoon. We often had it on special occasions, but honestly, I’d devour it any day of the week! It’s comfort food at its finest, and there’s something about the crispy coating and tender meat paired with that rich gravy that just feels like a warm hug.
What I love most about Chicken Fried Steak is its versatility. You can enjoy it for breakfast with some eggs, lunch with a side salad, or dinner with mashed potatoes. Plus, it’s a dish that brings people together; just wait until you set this plate on the table! The aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen. So, if you’re ready to delve into making this delightful dish, let’s get to it!
What’s in Chicken Fried Steak?
Beef Round Steak: The star of the show! I prefer using cube steak because it’s so tender and absorbs the flavors beautifully. You could also use sirloin or flank steak if you prefer. Just make sure to pound it well for that classic texture.
All-Purpose Flour: This will give our steak that incredible crispy coating. I always opt for unbleached flour for a more wholesome flavor.
Buttermilk: The secret ingredient! Soaking the meat in buttermilk not only tenderizes the steak but also adds a tangy richness that pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the dish.
Eggs: They help with binding the flour to the steak, giving it that golden crust we all love.
Seasonings: I like to keep it simple with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for a hint of warmth. You can also add garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
Vegetable Oil: This is essential for frying! I recommend using canola or peanut oil as they can handle higher temperatures without smoking.
Milk: For the gravy! Whole milk or a combination of half-and-half and milk gives it a rich, creamy texture.
Is Chicken Fried Steak Good for You?
Now, let’s be real: Chicken Fried Steak isn’t the healthiest option out there, but everything in moderation, right? It’s definitely a treat, packed with flavor.
Beef: A great source of protein, but it can also be high in saturated fats. Choosing lean cuts and controlling portion sizes can help balance things out.
Buttermilk: It contains probiotics and is easier to digest than regular milk, which is a plus!
Cooking Methods: Frying adds a considerable amount of fat, so if you’re looking for a healthier dish, consider baking it instead or air-frying for that crispy texture without all the oil.
So, while Chicken Fried Steak may not be your everyday meal, it’s certainly a delightful indulgence worth enjoying from time to time.
Ingredients List
– 1 pound cube steak or round steak (serves 4)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2 cups)
– 2 cups whole milk (for gravy)
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak?
1. Start by pounding your cube steak with a meat mallet until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. You want to tenderize that meat so it’s melt-in-your-mouth good!
2. In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, eggs, salt, pepper, and paprika. Whisk it all together until well-blended.
3. Soak the steaks in the buttermilk mixture for at least an hour (or if you’ve got time, leave them overnight!).
4. When you’re ready to cook, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom, about a quarter-inch deep.
5. In another bowl, spread out the flour. Dredge each soaked steak in the flour, making sure it’s well-coated.
6. Carefully place the coated steaks in the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Once cooked, remove the steaks and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
8. Now, for the gravy! Drain the oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the skillet. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of leftover flour and whisk, cooking for about 1 minute to remove the raw flavor.
9. Gradually whisk in the milk and let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve your Chicken Fried Steak hot, generously smothered with gravy, and don’t forget your favorite sides!
Southern Comfort Tips & Variations
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding different spices to the flour like cayenne pepper for a kick!
– You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of regular milk and lemon juice if you don’t have any on hand.
– For a crunchier texture, you can also add a bit of crushed cornflakes to the flour mixture!
I can’t wait for you to try this Chicken Fried Steak recipe! It embodies all the love and warmth of family gatherings, and I just know that you will make delicious memories with it too. So get in that kitchen, roll up your sleeves, and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!
