Chicken Fried Steak I

Chicken Fried Steak I Recipe - Authentic American dish made with beef and flour

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

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 white gravy and hot cooked rice for a hearty and comforting meal.

History

Chicken Fried Steak has roots in Southern cuisine and is believed to have originated in Texas in the early 20th century. The dish was created as a way to make tough cuts of meat more tender by pounding and frying them. Over the years, Chicken Fried Steak has become a beloved comfort food dish enjoyed by many across the United States.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) beef round steaks, cut 0.5 inch thick
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp ground black pepper
1 cup milk
1 egg, lightly beaten
0.25 cup peanut oil
6 cups hot cooked rice

White Gravy

0.25 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground white pepper

How to prepare

Pound the steak to a thickness of 0.25 inches and cut it into 6 pieces.
Combine flour, salt, and pepper, and set it aside. Also, combine milk and egg.
Dredge the steaks in the seasoned flour. Then, dip the coated steaks in the egg wash and dredge them again in flour.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the steaks in the hot oil for about 3 minutes on each side.
Remove the steaks from the pan and keep them warm. Drain off all but 0.25 cup of drippings.

White Gravy

Slowly add flour to the reserved drippings and stir until well blended.
Add flour, milk, salt, and white pepper.
Stir until thickened.
Pour the gravy over rice and chicken-fried steak.

Variations

Substitute round steak with cube steak for a quicker cooking time.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tangier flavor.
Top the Chicken Fried Steak with sautéed mushrooms or onions for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pound the steak to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.

- Use a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet to tenderize the steak.

- Be sure to season the flour mixture well to add flavor to the dish.

- Fry the steaks in hot oil to achieve a crispy and golden brown crust.

- Drain excess oil from the steaks on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess grease.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Fried Steak is traditionally served with creamy white gravy and hot cooked rice. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread for a complete Southern meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pound the steak to an even thickness for even cooking.

- Dredge the steaks in flour, then dip in an egg wash, and dredge again in flour for a crispy coating.

- Fry the steaks in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.

- Make a creamy white gravy using the drippings from the fried steaks for a flavorful topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cube steak instead of round steak for a quicker cooking time.

- Substitute vegetable oil for peanut oil for frying.

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

- Replace milk with almond milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the steaks ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to fry.

- The white gravy can also be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chicken Fried Steak on a platter with the white gravy drizzled on top. - Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. - Serve with a side of hot cooked rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Fried Steak with a glass of sweet tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink.

- Serve with a side of cornbread or biscuits for a classic Southern meal.

- Enjoy with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chicken Fried Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Fried Steak contains approximately 500 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Fried Steak contains approximately 45 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 35 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Fried Steak is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat, milk, and eggs.

Summary

Chicken Fried Steak is a hearty and satisfying dish that is high in protein and fats. It is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, but should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high calorie and fat content.

Summary

Chicken Fried Steak is a classic Southern dish that is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. With a crispy coating, creamy white gravy, and hot cooked rice, it is a satisfying meal that is sure to please. Enjoy this dish with your family and friends for a taste of Southern hospitality.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my Aunt Betty's house in the countryside. Aunt Betty was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and that day, she was making her famous Chicken Fried Steak for dinner.

As I walked into the kitchen, I was greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of sizzling steak and golden brown breading. Aunt Betty was busy at the stove, turning the steaks over with a spatula, her face glowing with pride and concentration. She smiled warmly at me and said, "Come and watch, dear. This is a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."

I eagerly took a seat at the kitchen table and watched as Aunt Betty worked her magic. She explained that the key to a perfect Chicken Fried Steak was in the preparation of the meat. She had tenderized the steaks with a meat mallet, seasoned them with salt and pepper, and dredged them in a mixture of flour and spices.

As the steaks sizzled in the hot oil, Aunt Betty told me about how she had learned to make this dish from her grandmother, who had learned it from her mother before her. She recounted fond memories of helping her grandmother in the kitchen, learning the secrets of traditional Southern cooking.

I listened intently, absorbing every detail of the recipe as Aunt Betty shared it with me. She explained that the secret to a crispy crust was in the double dredging technique – dipping the steaks in flour, then egg, then flour again before frying. She also added a touch of buttermilk to the batter for extra flavor and tenderness.

As the steaks turned a golden brown and crispy on the outside, Aunt Betty removed them from the pan and placed them on a wire rack to drain. She then made a creamy white gravy from the pan drippings, flour, and milk, pouring it over the steaks before serving.

I watched in awe as Aunt Betty plated up the Chicken Fried Steak, garnishing it with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color. The steaks were tender and juicy on the inside, with a crispy, flavorful crust that melted in my mouth. It was love at first bite.

From that day on, I was determined to master the art of making Chicken Fried Steak. I asked Aunt Betty for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me – along with her invaluable tips and tricks for achieving the perfect dish every time.

I practiced making Chicken Fried Steak tirelessly, experimenting with different seasonings and techniques until I had perfected my own version of the recipe. Over the years, I have made this dish countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions – each time receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

As I sit here now, preparing to pass on this beloved recipe to the next generation, I am filled with gratitude for the traditions and knowledge that have been handed down to me. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones, to honor the past, and to create lasting memories for the future.

And so, I will continue to make Aunt Betty's Chicken Fried Steak with love and dedication, sharing the joy of good food and family with all who gather around my table. For in the kitchen, the heart and soul of a family recipe come alive – bridging the generations and creating a legacy that will endure for years to come.