Chicken-fried Steak

Chicken-fried Steak Recipe | Classic American Cuisine | USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken-fried steak is a classic Southern dish that consists of tenderized steak coated in seasoned flour and fried until crispy. It is typically served with creamy gravy and mashed potatoes for a hearty and comforting meal.

History

Chicken-fried steak has roots in German and Austrian cuisine, where a similar dish called "Wiener Schnitzel" is made with veal or pork. When German immigrants settled in Texas in the 19th century, they adapted the recipe using beef instead of veal or pork, and thus chicken-fried steak was born.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) top round steak
0.5 cup + 3 tbsp flour
salt and freshly ground pepper
3 tbsp vegetable shortening
1 large onion, coarsely chopped
1.5 cups milk

How to prepare

Cut the steak into 4 to 6 serving pieces.
Using a meat pounder or the rim of a sturdy plate, pound 0.5 cup of flour into the steaks.
Continue pounding until the steaks are saturated and quite thin.
Generously sprinkle the steaks with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat the shortening over high heat.
Cook the steaks very quickly, about 2 – 3 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown.
Remove the steaks to a platter and keep them warm.
Remove all but 2 tbsp of fat from the skillet.
Add the onion to the skillet and sauté over medium heat for about 2 minutes, or until it becomes soft.
Continuously stirring, add the remaining flour to the onion and let it cook for 2 or 3 minutes.
Slowly pour in the milk while constantly stirring, and cook until the gravy thickens.
Serve the steaks with mashed potatoes and pass the gravy.

Variations

Use cube steak instead of top round steak for a quicker cooking time.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
Substitute buttermilk for the milk in the gravy for a tangier flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pound the steak thin and evenly to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for medium.

- For extra crispy coating, double dip the steak in the flour mixture before frying.

- Let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and keep it moist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken-fried steak with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered corn, and a side of green beans for a classic Southern meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pound the steak thin for even cooking.

- Fry the steak in hot oil for a crispy crust.

- Make a roux with flour and fat to thicken the gravy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable oil instead of vegetable shortening for frying.

- Substitute beef broth for milk in the gravy for a richer flavor.

- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can bread the steak ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to fry.

- Make the gravy ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the chicken-fried steak on a platter with the gravy drizzled over the top. - Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair chicken-fried steak with a glass of sweet tea or a cold beer.

- Serve with a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover chicken-fried steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in a skillet over medium heat.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chicken-fried steak contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of chicken-fried steak contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of chicken-fried steak contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of chicken-fried steak contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken-fried steak is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Chicken-fried steak contains wheat and milk allergens.

Summary

Chicken-fried steak is a high-protein dish that is rich in fats and carbohydrates. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that is best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Chicken-fried steak is a classic Southern dish that is hearty, comforting, and delicious. With a crispy coating, tender steak, and creamy gravy, it is sure to be a hit at your next family dinner.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for chicken-fried steak. It was a hot summer day, and I was at a farmers market browsing through the fresh produce and homemade goodies. As I walked past one of the stands, a friendly farmer offered me a sample of his crispy, golden-brown chicken-fried steak. I had never tried it before, but one bite was all it took for me to fall in love with the dish.

I asked the farmer for the recipe, and he chuckled before explaining that it was a family secret passed down through generations. However, he was kind enough to give me a few tips on how to recreate it at home. I rushed back to my kitchen, eager to try my hand at making chicken-fried steak.

I gathered all the ingredients – tenderized steak, flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, and spices – and set to work. I pounded the steak thin, dredged it in seasoned flour, dipped it in beaten eggs, and coated it in breadcrumbs. I heated up a skillet with oil, carefully placed the steak in the pan, and fried it until it was crispy and golden on the outside, and juicy and tender on the inside.

The smell that filled my kitchen was absolutely divine. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste my creation. As I sat down at the table and took my first bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my family for years to come.

Over the years, I perfected my chicken-fried steak recipe, adding my own twist by experimenting with different seasonings and cooking techniques. I would often invite friends and family over for dinner, and they would always rave about my chicken-fried steak. It became my signature dish, and I was proud to share it with anyone who would listen.

One day, while at a local diner, I struck up a conversation with the chef about chicken-fried steak. He shared with me his own version of the recipe, which included a secret ingredient that added an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Intrigued, I begged him to teach me how to make it. He agreed, and we spent an entire afternoon in his kitchen, frying up batch after batch of chicken-fried steak until I had mastered his technique.

I was amazed at how one dish could be prepared in so many different ways, each one delicious in its own right. I realized that cooking was not just about following a recipe, but about using your creativity and intuition to make something truly special.

As the years went by, I continued to collect recipes and cooking tips from friends, family, and even strangers I met along the way. Each new recipe I tried added to my culinary repertoire and brought me closer to becoming the cook I am today.

Now, as I sit down to enjoy a plate of my famous chicken-fried steak, I can't help but feel grateful for all the people who have shared their knowledge and passion for cooking with me. Each recipe is a story, a memory, a piece of someone's heart and soul that they have generously passed on to me.

And so, I will continue to cook, to experiment, to learn, and to share my love of food with anyone who is willing to listen. Because for me, cooking is not just about making a meal – it's about creating a connection, a bond, a moment of joy that brings people together and fills their hearts and bellies with love.