Chicken-fried Steak with Cream Gravy

Chicken-fried Steak with Cream Gravy Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Chicken-fried steak with cream gravy is a classic Southern comfort food dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and delicious meal. This recipe features tender round steak coated in a crispy seasoned breading and fried to perfection, then smothered in a creamy and flavorful gravy. It's a dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend brunch.

History

Chicken-fried steak is believed to have originated in the Southern United States, where it quickly became a popular dish among families and diners. The name "chicken-fried steak" comes from the cooking method, which is similar to frying chicken. The steak is coated in a seasoned flour mixture, fried until crispy, and then served with a creamy gravy. This dish has become a beloved comfort food staple in Southern cuisine and is enjoyed by many across the country.

Ingredients

2.5 lb (1.13 kg) round steak
5 oz (142 g) evaporated milk
2 tbsp green tabasco sauce
0.5 tsp salt
2 cups all-purpose flour -- divided
2 tsp paprika
0.75 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cracked black pepper
vegetable oil

How to prepare

Trim the steak and pound, if needed, to a thickness of 0.5 inches; then cut it into 6 to 8 pieces.
In a bowl, combine the milk, Tabasco sauce, and salt.
Measure 1 cup of flour into a separate bowl.
In another bowl, combine the remaining flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Dip the steak into the flour, then into the milk mixture, and finally into the seasoned flour.
Set the coated meat aside.
Heat 1 or 2 inches of oil in a frying pan.
Fry the meat until both sides are golden brown, approximately 2 minutes per side.
Drain the meat on paper towels.
Serve with cream sauce, mashed potatoes, and gravy.

Cream Sauce

Pour off all but 6 tbsp of fat from the frying pan.
Add 6 tbsp of flour to the pan (using any leftover seasoned flour) and blend well.
Gradually stir in 2.5 cups of milk.
Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened.
Season with salt and pepper.
Cover the steaks with the gravy when serving.
Enjoy!

Variations

Try using cube steak instead of round steak for a different texture.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
Use buttermilk instead of evaporated milk for a tangier flavor.
Experiment with different seasonings in the flour mixture, such as onion powder or cumin.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pound the steak to an even thickness to ensure that it cooks evenly.

- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak to ensure it is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

- Be sure to properly season the flour mixture for the breading to add flavor to the steak.

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

- Allow the steak to drain on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken-fried steak with cream gravy with mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread for a classic Southern meal. Add a side of coleslaw or a salad for a fresh and crunchy contrast.

Cooking Techniques

Pound the steak to an even thickness for even cooking.

- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak.

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

- Make sure to properly season the flour mixture for the breading.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use buttermilk instead of evaporated milk for a tangier flavor.

- Substitute vegetable oil with canola oil or peanut oil for frying.

- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the steak ahead of time by breading it and storing it in the refrigerator until ready to fry. You can also make the cream gravy ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the chicken-fried steak with cream gravy on a platter with a garnish of fresh parsley or chives. Add a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair chicken-fried steak with cream gravy with a glass of sweet tea or a cold beer for a refreshing beverage option. For dessert, serve peach cobbler or pecan pie for a sweet finish to your meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover chicken-fried steak with cream gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chicken-fried steak with cream gravy contains approximately 500 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of chicken-fried steak with cream gravy contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

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

Proteins

Each serving of chicken-fried steak with cream gravy contains approximately 40 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and dairy allergens.

Summary

Chicken-fried steak with cream gravy is a hearty and satisfying dish that is rich in proteins and fats. It is a delicious comfort food option that is perfect for a special meal or family dinner.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy little kitchen. Martha was a fantastic cook, and she had a knack for creating delicious dishes out of the simplest ingredients.

As we chatted over cups of steaming tea, Martha pulled out a worn, dog-eared cookbook from her cluttered bookshelf. She flipped through the pages with a knowing smile, and my eyes landed on a recipe for Chicken-fried Steak with Cream Gravy. My mouth watered at the thought of tender, crispy steak smothered in rich, creamy gravy.

Martha noticed my interest and chuckled softly. "Ah, I see you've found one of my favorite recipes," she said, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Would you like me to show you how to make it?"

I jumped at the chance, eager to learn the secrets behind this tantalizing dish. Martha guided me through the process, teaching me how to tenderize the steak, coat it in a seasoned flour mixture, and fry it until golden brown and crispy. The aroma that filled her kitchen was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to dive into the finished dish.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I savored every bite of the succulent steak and velvety gravy. It was a revelation, a perfect balance of flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds. I knew then and there that I had to make this recipe a regular part of my culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I honed my skills and perfected Martha's recipe for Chicken-fried Steak with Cream Gravy. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, earning rave reviews from everyone who tasted it. I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of this beloved dish to a new generation.

But it wasn't just Martha's recipe that I relied on. I also drew inspiration from my own experiences and adventures in the kitchen. I experimented with different seasonings, tried out new cooking techniques, and incorporated fresh ingredients from my garden into the dish.

One summer, I discovered the magic of adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the gravy, giving it a deep, savory flavor that elevated the dish to new heights. Another time, I swapped out the traditional beef steak for tender chicken breasts, creating a lighter, more delicate version of the classic recipe.

As I continued to explore and innovate, my Chicken-fried Steak with Cream Gravy evolved into a signature dish that was uniquely my own. It became a symbol of my passion for cooking, a testament to the joy and satisfaction I found in creating delicious food for the people I loved.

And so, whenever I make this dish now, I think of Martha and the day she introduced me to her treasured recipe. I think of all the memories we shared, the laughter we enjoyed, and the bond we forged over our shared love of good food.

As I sit down to savor a plate of Chicken-fried Steak with Cream Gravy, I am reminded of the power of a simple recipe to bring people together, to create moments of joy and connection that last a lifetime. And I am grateful for the gift of cooking, a gift that has enriched my life in countless ways.