Introduction
Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy Recipe is a classic Southern comfort food dish that combines crispy coated steak with a creamy gravy. This hearty meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a weekend indulgence. The crispy coating on the steak, paired with the rich and flavorful gravy, makes this dish a favorite across the Southern United States. Whether served with mashed potatoes, cornbread, or green beans, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a delicious and filling meal.
History of Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken Fried Steak, despite its name, does not contain chicken. This iconic Southern dish consists of tenderized beef steak that is coated in seasoned flour and fried until crispy. It is believed to have originated in Texas in the early 20th century and has since become a beloved staple in Southern cuisine. The name “Chicken Fried Steak” comes from the cooking method, which is similar to frying chicken.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy, you will need ingredients such as cube steak, flour, eggs, milk, and spices. The steak is tenderized, coated in seasoned flour, dipped in an egg wash, and then fried until golden brown. The rich gravy is made from the pan drippings, flour, milk, and seasonings, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce to pour over the crispy steak. This dish is a labor of love, requiring attention to detail and patience to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
What Tools You’ll Need
Essential Kitchen Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Meat mallet
– Frying pan
– Tongs
– Meat thermometer
To prepare the Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy Recipe, you will need a few essential kitchen tools. Start with mixing bowls to combine the flour and spices for coating the steak. A whisk will come in handy to ensure a smooth batter mixture. Use a meat mallet to tenderize the steak before frying to perfection. When it comes to cooking, a frying pan is essential for achieving that crispy outer layer. Don’t forget tongs to carefully flip the steaks during cooking. Lastly, a meat thermometer will help you check if the steak is cooked to the right temperature.
Additional Helpful Tools
– Paper towels
– Wire rack
– Slotted spoon
– Aluminum foil
In addition to the essential kitchen tools, a few more items can make your cooking process smoother. Have paper towels on hand to drain excess oil from the fried steaks. A wire rack is useful for keeping the steaks crispy while you prepare the gravy. A slotted spoon will help you remove any food particles from the hot oil. Lastly, use aluminum foil to keep the cooked steaks warm before serving. With these tools ready, you’ll be all set to create a delicious Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy meal.
Ingredients with Detailed Measurements
List of Ingredients
– 1 ½ pounds of cube steaks
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– ½ teaspoon of black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup of buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 3 cups of whole milk
– ¼ cup of all-purpose flour
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together. Dredge each cube steak in the seasoned flour, dip into the egg mixture, then dredge again in the flour mixture.
Preparation Instructions
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the steaks and drain on paper towels.
To make the gravy, pour off all but 1/4 cup of the oil from the skillet. Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour into the oil and cook for 2-3 minutes. Slowly whisk in the whole milk and bring to a simmer. Cook until the gravy has thickened, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the chicken fried steaks with the gravy poured over the top.
Instructions
Start by tenderizing the steak using a meat mallet until it reaches about a 1/4-inch thickness. Season both sides of the steak with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Coating and Frying
– Dredge the seasoned steak in flour, then dip it into a mixture of beaten eggs and buttermilk.
– Coat the steak again in seasoned flour and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
– Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
– Carefully place the coated steak in the hot oil and fry each side until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
– Once done, transfer the steak to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Gravy Preparation
– In the same skillet, make the gravy by sprinkling flour and cooking until golden brown.
– Gradually whisk in milk until the mixture thickens, then season with salt and black pepper.
– Continue cooking until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
– Serve the chicken fried steak with the homemade gravy poured over the top. Enjoy the savory Southern flavors!
Nutrition Score
Nutritional Value of Southern Chicken Fried Steak
– Southern Chicken Fried Steak is a classic dish that is beloved for its rich flavors, but it is essential to consider its nutritional content as well.
– A single serving of Southern Chicken Fried Steak typically provides approximately 450-600 calories, making it a hearty meal choice.
– This dish is rich in protein due to the steak, offering around 30-40 grams per serving, which is beneficial for muscle growth and repair.
– However, the breading and frying process can add significant amounts of fat and calories to the dish, so it is advisable to consume it in moderation.
Health Considerations
– The gravy used in Southern Chicken Fried Steak adds flavor but can also be high in saturated fat and sodium, which may not be suitable for individuals with heart conditions or high blood pressure.
– To make this dish slightly healthier, consider using leaner cuts of steak, baking or air-frying instead of deep-frying, and opting for a lighter gravy or reducing the amount used.
– Balancing this indulgent dish with plenty of vegetables or a fresh salad can help increase its nutritional value and provide a more well-rounded meal option.
In conclusion, while Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a delicious comfort food choice, it is important to be mindful of its nutritional aspects and consume it as part of a balanced diet.
Serving & Storage
Serving Suggestions
• Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is best served hot and fresh.
• Pair it with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, or cornbread for a complete meal.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.
Storage Tips
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place the Chicken Fried Steak in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• The gravy may thicken in the refrigerator, so add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore the desired consistency.
• If freezing, wrap the steak in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy frozen leftovers, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating following the above instructions.
By following these serving suggestions and storage tips, you can ensure that your Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy stays delicious and fresh for your next meal.
Variations
Meat Choices
– Instead of chicken fried steak, you can try this recipe with pork cutlets for a different twist on the classic Southern dish. The technique remains the same, but the flavor profile will vary with the pork’s unique taste and texture.
– For a lighter option, consider using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Pound them to an even thickness before coating and frying for a leaner version of this comforting meal.
Gravy Options
– Experiment with the gravy by adding diced sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. This will elevate the richness of the gravy and add depth to the overall dish.
– For a spicy kick, incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce into the gravy mixture. This will give your chicken fried steak a Southern Cajun flair that is sure to impress your taste buds.
By exploring different meat choices and gravy variations, you can put your own unique spin on the traditional Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy recipe. Enjoy the process of customizing this classic comfort food to suit your preferences and taste preferences.
FAQs with Most Commonly Asked Questions
Preparation Process
– How do I tenderize the steak before frying it?
– Can I use a different type of meat other than chicken for this dish?
– What should I do if the breading is not sticking to the steak?
– Is it necessary to refrigerate the steak before frying it?
Gravy Tips
– How can I prevent lumps in the gravy?
– Can I use a substitute for milk in the gravy?
– What is the best way to adjust the consistency of the gravy?
– How do I store leftover gravy and how long will it keep?
Conclusion
Indulge in Classic Southern Flavors
Delight your taste buds with the comforting flavors of the South through this satisfying dish. The crispy coating of the chicken-fried steak, paired with the creamy gravy, transports you to a traditional Southern kitchen. The combination of savory seasonings and tender steak creates a meal that is sure to please both family and guests alike.
Prepare this Southern favorite for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering to showcase the richness of Southern cuisine. The simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a dish that is both hearty and comforting. Whether enjoyed with classic sides like mashed potatoes and collard greens or served as a sandwich with pickles, this recipe offers a versatile way to savor the essence of Southern cooking.
Easy to Make, Hard to Forget
With its straightforward recipe and step-by-step instructions, crafting Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a breeze. The reward of crispy, golden-brown steak smothered in a velvety gravy is well worth the effort. From dredging the steak in seasoned flour to whipping up a silky gravy, each step contributes to the overall deliciousness of the dish.
This Southern classic bridges the gap between simplicity and indulgence, making it a go-to recipe for those seeking a soul-warming meal. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or new to Southern cuisine, this dish promises to become a staple in your recipe collection. Embrace the Southern charm and flavors with this iconic Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy recipe.