Country-fried Steak with Gravy

Country-Fried Steak with Gravy Recipe - North American Cuisine

Region / culture: North America, USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Country-fried steak with 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 steaks coated in a crispy crust and smothered in a rich and creamy gravy.

History

Country-fried steak has its roots in Southern cuisine, where it was traditionally made with tough cuts of meat that were tenderized by pounding and then coated in seasoned flour before being fried. The gravy was made from pan drippings, milk, and seasonings, creating a flavorful sauce to accompany the crispy steak.

Ingredients

4 beef cubed steaks
0.5 cup all-purpose flour
0.13 tsp black pepper
0.75 cup buttermilk
1 cup finely crushed saltine crackers
1 (10.75 oz (305 g)) can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup regular or low-fat/skimmed milk
3 tbsp solid vegetable shortening

How to prepare

Combine flour and pepper in a shallow dish; pour buttermilk into a second dish.
Spread crushed crackers on a fresh, large plate.
Dredge steaks, one at a time, in seasoned flour; dip into buttermilk, then into crushed crackers to coat thoroughly, pressing with fingertips to adhere.
Melt shortening in a skillet; add steaks; cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove meat to a platter.
Stir the mushroom soup and milk into the drippings in a skillet; bring to a boil, stirring.
Remove from heat. Serve steaks accompanied by gravy, and with rice and/or other side dishes.

Variations

For a lighter version, use lean cuts of meat such as sirloin or round steak.
Add a kick of heat by seasoning the flour mixture with cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pound the steaks to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.

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

- For a crispier crust, double coat the steaks in the flour and buttermilk mixture before coating in the crushed crackers.

- Let the steaks rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Country-fried steak with gravy is best served with mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread for a classic Southern meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pound the steaks to an even thickness for even cooking.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steaks reach the desired level of doneness.

- Make sure to coat the steaks thoroughly in the flour, buttermilk, and crushed crackers for a crispy crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute the vegetable shortening with butter or oil for frying.

- Use panko breadcrumbs or cornmeal instead of crushed crackers for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

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

- The gravy can also be made in advance and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the country-fried steak with gravy on a platter with a garnish of fresh parsley or chives. - Arrange the side dishes in separate bowls or plates for a family-style meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of sweet tea or a cold beer for a refreshing beverage.

- A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing complements the rich flavors of the steak and gravy.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the steak and gravy in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

420 per serving

Carbohydrates

25g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 22g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 6g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 32g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 15% of the daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains wheat, milk, and soy

Summary

This dish is high in protein and iron, but also contains a moderate amount of fat and calories.

Summary

Country-fried steak with gravy is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. With a crispy crust and creamy gravy, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Country-fried Steak with Gravy. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my Aunt Betty's farm in the countryside. Aunt Betty was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I had always admired her cooking skills.

As soon as I arrived, I could smell the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling steak coming from the kitchen. I hurried inside to see what Aunt Betty was cooking, and was greeted by a sight that made my stomach rumble with anticipation.

There on the stove, sizzling in a cast iron skillet, was a tender steak coated in a crispy golden breading, topped with a rich and savory gravy. I had never seen anything like it before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Aunt Betty smiled as she saw my excitement and beckoned me over to the stove. She explained that the dish was called Country-fried Steak with Gravy, a Southern classic that was perfect for a hearty Sunday dinner. She then proceeded to show me step by step how to make it, from tenderizing the steak to making the perfect gravy.

I watched intently as Aunt Betty dipped the steak in a seasoned flour mixture, then fried it to perfection in hot oil. The steak sizzled and crisped up beautifully, and my mouth watered at the thought of tasting it.

Once the steak was cooked through, Aunt Betty showed me how to make the gravy. She used the drippings from the pan, added some flour and milk, and stirred it all together until it thickened into a luscious sauce. The aroma of the gravy filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

Finally, Aunt Betty plated up the Country-fried Steak with Gravy and served it to me with a side of mashed potatoes and green beans. I took my first bite and was instantly transported to flavor heaven. The steak was juicy and flavorful, the breading crispy and golden, and the gravy rich and savory. It was a meal fit for a king, and I savored every bite.

After that day, I made it a point to learn as much as I could from Aunt Betty about cooking. I spent countless hours in her kitchen, watching her work her magic with simple ingredients and turning them into culinary masterpieces.

Over the years, I perfected my own version of Country-fried Steak with Gravy, adding my own twist to Aunt Betty's recipe. I experimented with different seasonings, tried using different cuts of meat, and even tried making a healthier version by baking the steak instead of frying it.

No matter how many variations I tried, though, Aunt Betty's original recipe always remained my favorite. There was something special about that hot summer day on the farm, watching her cook up a storm in the kitchen and sharing her culinary wisdom with me.

Now, whenever I make Country-fried Steak with Gravy for my own family, I always think back to that day and smile. Aunt Betty may no longer be with us, but her legacy lives on in every delicious bite of this comforting and satisfying dish. And for that, I am forever grateful.