Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Season the Steaks: Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Breading: In one shallow dish, combine 1 cup of flour, garlic powder, and paprika. In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
Step 2: Bread the Steaks
- Coat the Steaks: Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, return the steak to the flour mixture for a second coating. Ensure the steaks are well-coated for a crispy crust.
Step 3: Fry the Steaks
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot (about 350°F).
- Fry the Steaks: Carefully add the breaded steaks to the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked steaks to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
- Create the Roux: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking continuously to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, until it turns a light golden color.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate the Dish: Serve the fried steaks hot, generously topped with the creamy gravy. Pair with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Fried Steak
- Choose the Right Cut: Cube steaks work best for this recipe, but you can also use other cuts like round steak or sirloin if they’re pounded thin.
- Don’t Skip the Double Dredge: Coating the steak twice ensures a thicker, crunchier crust that holds up well during frying.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If it’s too low, the coating may become greasy; if it’s too high, it can burn.
- Customize the Gravy: Feel free to add in sautéed mushrooms or onions to the gravy for added flavor.
Healthier Variations
For a lighter version of Chicken Fried Steak, consider these alternatives:
- Baking: Instead of frying, you can bake the breaded steaks in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Gravy Substitutes: Use low-fat milk and less butter in the gravy for a healthier option.
Conclusion
Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a dish that embodies the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. Its crispy exterior, tender meat, and rich gravy create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or sharing it with friends at a gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the comforting flavors of this classic Southern favorite!
Enjoy making and savoring your Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy!
