Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy

Introduction

Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy is a Southern classic that combines tender, breaded beef with a rich, creamy sauce. This dish stands out for its crispy exterior and juicy interior, offering a comforting meal that’s both hearty and flavorful. In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare this dish from scratch, explore its origins, nutritional benefits, and discover tips for perfecting your cooking technique.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The contrast between the crispy, golden-brown crust and the tender, juicy steak inside is a delight with every bite. The creamy, peppery gravy adds a rich depth of flavor that complements the steak perfectly.

This dish is a celebration of Southern comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to impress.

Recipe Details

Originating from German and Austrian immigrants who brought their culinary traditions to Texas, Chicken Fried Steak was adapted using locally available beef.

The name “Chicken Fried” comes from the method of preparation, which resembles that of fried chicken. Over time, this dish has become a staple in Southern cuisine, often served with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread.

The key to its popularity lies in the combination of a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior, all smothered in a creamy, peppered gravy.

Nutritional Information

While Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy is undeniably delicious, it’s also a hearty dish. A typical serving contains approximately 733 calories, with 40 grams of fat, 61 grams of protein, and 30 grams of carbohydrates.

The dish provides a significant amount of iron and calcium, thanks to the beef and milk used in the gravy. However, it’s also high in sodium and cholesterol, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Pairing this dish with lighter sides like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad can help balance the meal.

Ingredients

• 4 large cube steaks
• 1⅓ cups all-purpose flour, divided
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Country Gravy:

• Drippings from fried steaks
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Note: Cube steaks are ideal for this recipe due to their tenderness and affordability. They are pre-tenderized cuts of beef, making them perfect for frying.

Equipment Needed

To achieve the perfect Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy, certain kitchen tools are essential:

• Cast Iron Skillet: Provides even heat distribution, ensuring a crispy crust on the steak.
• Meat Tenderizer: If using untenderized beef, a meat mallet will help achieve the desired tenderness.
• Thermometer: An instant-read thermometer ensures the oil is at the correct frying temperature (around 350°F).
• Cooling Rack: Allows excess oil to drain from the fried steaks, keeping them crispy.
• Saucepan: For preparing the creamy country gravy.

Alternative Options: If a cast iron skillet isn’t available, a heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet can be used. Ensure it retains heat well for frying.

Pro Tips For Success

Achieving the perfect Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy requires attention to detail:

• Seasoning: Season each component—steak, flour mixture, and gravy—to enhance flavor.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain oil at 350°F to ensure a crispy crust without greasy results.
• Resting Steaks: After frying, let the steaks rest on a cooling rack to maintain crispiness.
• Gravy Consistency: Whisk the gravy continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
• Serving: Serve immediately after preparation to enjoy the dish at its best.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Steaks: Season the cube steaks with garlic salt, onion powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and dried parsley. Let them sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Dredging Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, place 1 cup of flour. In the second, whisk together buttermilk and eggs. In the third, combine the remaining ⅓ cup of flour with additional seasoning.
3. Coating the Steaks: Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, dip into the buttermilk mixture, and then coat again in the seasoned flour. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
4. Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Fry the steaks for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a cooling rack.
5. Making the Gravy: In the same skillet, add the flour to the drippings and whisk to form a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until the gravy thickens. Season with black pepper and salt to taste.
6. Serving: Place the fried steaks on plates and generously spoon the country gravy over the top. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mixture for an extra layer of heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the cube steak with thick slices of portobello mushrooms for a meatless version.
• Healthier Twist: Use whole wheat flour for the breading and opt for low-fat milk in the gravy to reduce calories.

Storage Instructions

Leftover Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the steak in an oven preheated to 350°F for 10-15 minutes, ensuring the crust remains crispy. The gravy can be reheated on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it has thickened too much. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may be compromised upon thawing.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty dish with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak and gravy. For breakfast, serve with scrambled eggs and hash browns for a complete meal.

FAQs

1. What is the best cut of beef for Chicken Fried Steak? Cube steak is the traditional choice for Chicken Fried Steak due to its tenderized texture. If unavailable, you can use round steak or sirloin, but ensure they are tenderized before cooking.
2. Can I use chicken instead of beef? While the dish is traditionally made with beef, you can substitute chicken breasts for a lighter version. Pound the chicken to an even thickness before breading and frying.
3. Why is my breading falling off during frying? Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (around 350°F). Let the coated steaks rest for 10 minutes before frying to allow the breading to set.
4. How can I make the gravy smoother? To prevent lumps, add milk slowly to the roux while whisking continuously. If lumps form, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve or blend it briefly with an immersion blender.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time? The steaks are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the gravy ahead and reheat it, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin it out.
6. What oil is best for frying? Vegetable oil or canola oil are commonly used due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors. Alternatively, beef tallow can be used for a richer flavor.
7. How do I know when the steak is cooked through? The steak is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
8. What sides pair well with Chicken Fried Steak? Traditional sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, collard greens, and biscuits or Texas toast. The gravy is especially delicious over the potatoes!
9. Can I make the breading spicier? Yes, adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breading mix can give the dish an extra kick. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.
10. How do I keep the steaks warm after frying? Place a wire rack over a baking sheet and keep the fried steaks in a preheated 200°F (93°C) oven while you cook the remaining steaks.

Conclusion

Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy is a timeless Southern comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. By following the steps and tips provided, you can recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to impress. Embrace the rich flavors and textures, and enjoy a plateful of Southern hospitality.

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