How To Cook Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is a classic comfort food that always hits the spot. It’s crispy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. If you’re ready to take on the challenge of cooking this delicious dish at home, we’ve got you covered with our step-by-step guide.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of cube steak
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 2 eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) to keep the cooked chicken fried steaks warm while you prepare the rest of the batch.
- In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to create the coating for the steak.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
- Dredge the cube steaks in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip each piece into the buttermilk and egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat the steaks once again in the flour mixture, pressing the coating firmly onto each piece.
- Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the coated steaks into the skillet, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Place the fried steaks on a baking sheet and keep them warm in the preheated oven while you repeat the frying process with the remaining steaks.
- Serve the chicken fried steak hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and creamy gravy.
Now you’re ready to impress your family and friends with your homemade chicken fried steak. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t turn out as expected. Adjust the seasonings to your liking and experiment with different side dishes to make it your own signature dish. Happy cooking!
Share your thoughts and experiences on making the perfect chicken fried steak in the Cooking Techniques forum.
FAQ:
What is chicken fried steak?
Chicken fried steak is a classic southern dish made with tenderized beef steak that is coated in a seasoned flour mixture, then fried until golden brown and crispy. Despite its name, chicken fried steak does not contain any chicken; instead, it gets its name from the method of preparation, which is similar to frying chicken.
What cut of steak should I use for chicken fried steak?
The best cut of steak to use for chicken fried steak is cube steak. Cube steak is a tenderized cut of beef that is usually taken from the round or chuck primal cuts. It has a naturally tender texture and is perfect for frying and breading.
How do I tenderize cube steak?
Cube steak is generally already tenderized, but you can further tenderize it by using a meat mallet or a meat tenderizing tool. Simply pound the cube steak on both sides to help break down the connective tissues and make it even more tender.
What is the best flour mixture for coating chicken fried steak?
The most common flour mixture for coating chicken fried steak is a combination of all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and other spices such as garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This combination adds flavor and helps create a crispy crust when fried.
Can I use a different type of oil for frying chicken fried steak?
Yes, you can use different types of oil for frying chicken fried steak. Vegetable oil, canola oil, and peanut oil are commonly used due to their high smoke points. These oils can withstand the high heat required for frying and help achieve a crispy exterior on the steak.
How do I know when the chicken fried steak is cooked through?
To ensure the chicken fried steak is cooked through, you can use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, and it should register at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness. Another way to check is by cutting into the steak to make sure the interior is no longer pink.
What are some popular side dishes to serve with chicken fried steak?
Chicken fried steak pairs well with various side dishes. Some popular options include mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, corn on the cob, coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, and biscuits. These sides complement the flavor and add a satisfying and comforting element to the meal.
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