Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy

Introduction:

Embrace the hearty flavors of Southern cuisine with our Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy recipe. This classic dish combines tenderized beef steak coated in a crispy, seasoned breading, fried to golden perfection, and smothered in rich, savory gravy. Whether served as a comforting weeknight meal or the star of a Sunday brunch, this indulgent dish is sure to satisfy cravings and evoke feelings of home-cooked comfort. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of Chicken Fried Steak, unravel the secrets to mastering this Southern staple, and guide you through the steps to creating your own flavorful rendition.

 Ingredients:

• 4 beef cube steaks (about 1/3 pound each)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons reserved frying oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. In another dish, whisk together eggs and 1/4 cup milk.
3. Dip each steak first in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and again in the flour mixture.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry steaks until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side. Remove and keep warm.
5. For the gravy, reduce heat to medium, add 2 tablespoons of frying oil and 2 tablespoons of flour to the skillet. Whisk until smooth.
6. Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Continue cooking and stirring until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve steaks with gravy poured over the top.
8. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Serving Tips:

1. Hot and Fresh: Serve Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture. The crispy coating and tender beef are at their peak when served hot, delivering maximum flavor and enjoyment.
2. Generous Gravy: Be generous with the savory gravy, ladling it generously over the Chicken Fried Steak. The rich, velvety gravy adds moisture and flavor to the dish, enhancing its overall appeal.
3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the Chicken Fried Steak just before serving for a pop of color and a burst of freshness. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also complement the flavors of the dish.
4. Pair with Southern Sides: Accompany Chicken Fried Steak with classic Southern side dishes such as mashed potatoes, collard greens, cornbread, or macaroni and cheese. These sides complement the hearty flavors of the steak and enhance the Southern dining experience.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerate Leftovers Promptly: If you have leftover Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy, store it in an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly, within two hours of cooking. Proper refrigeration helps prevent bacterial growth and maintains the quality of the dish.
2. Separate Gravy from Steak: To preserve the crispy texture of the steak, store any leftover gravy separately from the Chicken Fried Steak. Store the gravy in a sealed container and refrigerate it alongside the steak.
3. Reheat with Care: When reheating leftovers, take care to maintain the crispy coating of the Chicken Fried Steak. Reheat the steak in a preheated oven or toaster oven to help retain its crispiness. Warm the gravy separately on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
4. Consume Within a Few Days: Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Beyond this timeframe, the quality of the dish may deteriorate, so it’s best to consume it within a few days of cooking.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for Chicken Fried Steak? Absolutely! While cube steak is commonly used for Chicken Fried Steak due to its tenderizing process, you can use other cuts of beef such as round steak or sirloin steak. Just make sure to tenderize the meat by pounding it with a meat mallet or using a meat tenderizer tool to achieve a tender texture.
2. How do I know when the Chicken Fried Steak is cooked through? The Chicken Fried Steak is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Additionally, the steak should be golden brown and crispy on the outside when cooked.
3. Can I make the gravy ahead of time? Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to use, reheat the gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a little water or broth to adjust the consistency if the gravy thickens upon cooling.
4. How can I make the Chicken Fried Steak gluten-free? To make Chicken Fried Steak gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for both the breading and the gravy. Additionally, make sure to check that other ingredients such as seasoning blends and beef broth are gluten-free.
5. Can I freeze Chicken Fried Steak? While Chicken Fried Steak can be frozen, it’s best to freeze the breaded steak before frying. After breading the steak, place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the breaded steak to a resealable freezer bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. When ready to cook, thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight before frying as usual.

Conclusion:

With its crispy exterior, tender beef interior, and luscious gravy, Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy embodies the essence of Southern comfort food. Whether enjoyed for a hearty family dinner or shared with friends at a backyard barbecue, this timeless dish evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth. By following our simple recipe and techniques, you can recreate the flavors of the South in your own kitchen and treat yourself to a taste of culinary tradition. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare to savor the irresistible goodness of Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy.