Ah, Chicken Fried Steak—where Southern comfort food meets pure culinary happiness! There’s something about the crispy, golden-brown coating paired with a rich, creamy gravy that tugs at my heartstrings. It’s a dish that always reminds me of Sunday family gatherings where laughter echoed around the table, and delicious aromas filled the air. My grandmother used to whip up the best Chicken Fried Steak, and, let me tell you, nothing beat that first bite with a side of creamy mashed potatoes.
What I love most about this recipe is its beautiful blend of textures and flavors. You get the crunch from the breading, the tenderness of the beef, and the lusciousness of the gravy. It’s comfort food that wraps you in a big, cozy hug. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself to a hearty meal, Chicken Fried Steak should definitely make the menu. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into creating this delicious dish together!
What’s in Chicken Fried Steak?
Beef Round Steak: This is the star of our dish! I suggest using a good quality cut, like sirloin or eye of round, which tenderizes beautifully when pounded.
Buttermilk: This ingredient adds a delightful tangy flavor and helps tenderize the meat. It’s like magic in a jar! You can easily make your own if you don’t have any on hand—just add a tablespoon of vinegar to regular milk and let it sit for a bit.
All-Purpose Flour: This will create that beautiful crust. If you want a little added texture, mix in some cornstarch!
Spices: I usually stick with salt, pepper, and a hint of paprika for an extra kick of flavor. You can play around with spices, but keep it simple for the classic taste.
Vegetable Oil: The oil is essential for frying and gives the steak that irresistible crispiness. Olive oil works, but I prefer canola or peanut oil for their higher smoke points.
Milk and Heavy Cream: This duo will transform your gravy into a rich and silky masterpiece. Don’t skimp on it!
Is Chicken Fried Steak Good for You?
Now, let’s be honest—Chicken Fried Steak isn’t exactly health food, but it’s certainly a delightful treat every now and then!
Beef Round Steak: It’s a good source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins, but choose lean cuts to keep it healthier.
Buttermilk: This can be both a treat and a healthy ingredient, as it’s lower in fat than heavy cream but also provides probiotics that are good for your gut.
Flour and Oil: While delicious, the frying process adds extra calories, so be mindful of portion sizes. You can always bake it for a slightly healthier version.
In moderation, Chicken Fried Steak can be a delightful dish to enjoy, especially when served with a side of veggies to balance things out!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb beef round steak (or your choice of cut, tenderized)
– 1 cup buttermilk (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– ½ tsp paprika
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup milk (for gravy)
– 1 cup heavy cream (for gravy)
*Serves: 4 hungry folks or 2 if you’re really feeling hungry!*
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak?
1. **Tenderize the Steak:** If you haven’t done so already, use a meat mallet to pound the steak to about ½ inch thickness. This helps to make it tender.
2. **Marinate:** Place the steak in a bowl with the buttermilk, ensuring it’s well-coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least an hour, or overnight if you can.
3. **Prepare the Breading:** In a shallow dish, mix the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika together.
4. **Coat the Steak:** Take the marinated steak out of the buttermilk and let any excess drip off. Dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing down to make sure it sticks.
5. **Fry:** Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully lay the breaded steak in the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.
6. **Make the Gravy:** After frying, remove the steak and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more flour (about ¼ cup) to the remaining oil, stirring to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the gravy is smooth and thickened, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7. **Serve:** Plate the Chicken Fried Steak and generously top it with that rich, creamy gravy. Serve it with mashed potatoes and your favorite veggie to complete the meal!
Delicious Tips & Variations
– **Spice it up:** Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk for a spicy twist.
– **Baking Option:** For a healthier version, try baking the breaded steak in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
– **Gravy Add-ins:** For a twist on traditional gravy, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions.
I’ve made this Chicken Fried Steak recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress! I truly hope you give it a shot and enjoy it as much as I do. Feel free to play around, make it your own, and most importantly, share your experience with me afterward. Happy cooking!
