Description

There’s nothing quite like biting into a hearty piece of Southern comfort food, and if you're looking for a dish that perfectly embodies that warmth and richness, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we're diving into a classic recipe for Chicken Fried Steak that is guaranteed to leave you satisfied and craving more. This dish is an American twist on the traditional German Wiener Schnitzel, and it has won the hearts of many with its deliciously crispy exterior and tender, flavorful meat inside. It is particularly popular in the South, where it warms you up on a chilly evening and makes any gathering feel like a celebration.

Chicken Fried Steak is an excellent choice for a cozy dinner with family or friends. It is straightforward to prepare, and you can easily impress your guests or family members with this classic dish. The combination of the juicy, well-seasoned cube steak, the crispy batter, and the creamy white gravy creates a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that will transport you straight to the heart of the Southern culinary tradition.

Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of classic sides, allowing you to customize your meal to fit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it with buttery mashed potatoes, sweet corn, or a refreshing salad, Chicken Fried Steak is versatile enough to complement any dining experience.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to transform a simple cube steak into a show-stopping meal that echoes down through generations of Southern cooking.

Ingredients

• 4 cube steaks (about 1/3 pound each)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Vegetable oil for frying
• For the gravy:
• 2 tablespoons of reserved frying oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Method

1. Prepare ingredients and let cube steaks sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes.

2. In a shallow dish, mix all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.

4. Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and return to the flour for a second coating.

5. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.

6. Fry the steaks in batches for about four minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

7. Remove cooked steaks and place on a paper towel-lined plate.

8. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add two tablespoons of reserved frying oil.

9. Sprinkle in all-purpose flour and whisk for one minute to create a roux.

10. Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously until smooth.

11. Season gravy with salt and pepper, and cook until thickened for five to six minutes.

12. Serve Chicken Fried Steak hot with gravy poured over the top.

Tips and Conclusion

For a delightful twist, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper both to the seasoning mix and to the gravy for a spicy kick. If you’re trying to lighten things up a bit or want to infuse more flavors, substitute half of the vegetable oil with butter for frying. This not only adds richness but also elevates the dish's overall taste.

For those who are gluten-sensitive, using a gluten-free flour alternative can yield excellent results. Just be sure to check the consistency of your batter, adjusting as needed to achieve that perfect coating.
In conclusion, Chicken Fried Steak is not just a dish; it's a warm, comforting embrace that resonates with tradition and familial love. This delightful Southern recipe is sure to make its mark at your dinner table, bringing people together to share stories, laughter, and of course, delicious food.

Whether it's a casual weeknight meal or a special gathering, this dish's charm lies in its simplicity and rich flavors. Don't forget to pair it with traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or buttery corn for a well-rounded meal experience.

Give this Chicken Fried Steak recipe a try, and let it become a staple in your cooking repertoire. It's an experience that will not only please your taste buds but will also create memories that linger long after the plates are cleared. Happy cooking!