Chicken Fried Steak with gravy. Just hearing those words can make your mouth water, right? It’s a classic comfort food that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to make at home. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to create the perfect chicken fried steak.
What is Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken fried steak, despite its name, isn’t chicken at all! It’s a tenderized cut of beef, usually round steak, that’s breaded and fried just like you would fry chicken. The result is a crispy, golden crust on the outside and a juicy, flavorful steak on the inside. The whole thing is then smothered in a creamy, peppery gravy. Sound good? We thought so!
The Key: Tenderizing the Steak
The secret to a truly great chicken fried steak lies in properly tenderizing the beef. Here’s why it’s so important:
- Breaks Down Tough Fibers: Tenderizing makes the steak easier to chew.
- Creates a More Even Surface: This helps the breading adhere better.
- Improves Flavor Absorption: The tenderized meat soaks up the seasoning and breading.
You can use a meat mallet or a tenderizing tool to achieve this. Simply pound the steak to about ΒΌ inch thickness. Be careful not to pound it too thin, or it will fall apart during frying.
The Perfect Breading
The breading is what gives chicken fried steak its signature crispy texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of the breading.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika are all great choices. Get creative and add your own personal touch!
- Egg and Milk (or Buttermilk): This mixture helps the breading stick to the steak. Buttermilk adds a wonderful tang!
Dip the steak in the egg mixture, then dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned flour. Make sure to coat all sides evenly.
Frying to Golden Perfection
Now for the fun part: frying! Here are a few tips for achieving that golden-brown crust:
- Use the Right Oil: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all good choices because of their high smoke points.
- Maintain the Right Temperature: The oil should be around 350Β°F (175Β°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the steaks in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
- Flip Carefully: Use tongs to gently flip the steaks halfway through cooking.
- Drain on a Wire Rack: This helps keep the crust crispy.
Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
The Creamy, Dreamy Gravy
No chicken fried steak is complete without a generous helping of creamy, peppery gravy! Here’s a simple recipe:
Making the Roux
The foundation of the gravy is a roux, which is a mixture of fat and flour. Here’s how to make it:
- Melt butter (or use some of the leftover frying oil for extra flavor!) in a skillet over medium heat.
- Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.
Creating the Gravy
Now, add the liquid and seasonings:
- Slowly whisk in milk (or a combination of milk and cream for extra richness) until smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper (lots of pepper is key!), and a pinch of garlic powder.
- Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Adjust the seasonings to your liking. If the gravy is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken fried steak is traditionally served with:
- Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing!
- Green Beans: Adds a touch of freshness.
- Biscuits: Perfect for soaking up all that delicious gravy.
Feel free to get creative and add your own favorite sides!
In Conclusion
Chicken fried steak with gravy is a truly satisfying and comforting dish that’s easier to make than you might think. By following these tips and tricks, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a hearty and delicious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
