Country Fried Steak Recipe: Country fried steak is a beloved Southern classic known for its crispy, golden-breaded exterior and tender, juicy interior. Paired with creamy gravy, it’s a comfort food that has stood the test of time.
Originating as a budget-friendly meal for rural communities, it has since become a staple in diners and homes alike, offering a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the perfect country fried steak, you’ll need the following:
For the Steak:
- 4 beef cube steaks (about 4 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup buttermilk
For the Gravy:
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Required
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan
- Meat tenderizer or mallet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Paper towels for draining excess oil
Preparing the Steak
Selecting the Cut: Cube steak is the traditional choice, as it’s pre-tenderized and cooks quickly. If unavailable, top round or sirloin can be used but must be tenderized thoroughly.
Tenderizing the Meat: Lay each steak between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound with a meat tenderizer until evenly thin, about ¼ inch thick.
Seasoning: Lightly season both sides of the meat with salt and pepper.
Making the Perfect Breading
Mixing the Dry Ingredients: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
Preparing the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk until smooth.
Coating the Steaks: Dredge each piece of steak in the flour mixture, then dip into the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat again with flour. Press firmly to ensure an even coating.
Frying the Steak to Golden Perfection
Preheating the Oil: Heat about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. To test if the oil is ready, sprinkle a pinch of flour into the oil—it should sizzle immediately.
Frying the Steaks: Carefully place the breaded steaks into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each steak for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them gently.
Draining the Excess Oil: Once the steaks are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Keep them warm by placing them in a low oven (around 200°F) while you prepare the gravy.
Avoiding Common Mistakes: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying, as cooler oil can make the breading soggy. Avoid flipping too often to prevent the coating from falling off.
Creating the Creamy Gravy
Why Gravy Matters: A rich, creamy gravy is the hallmark of a perfect country fried steak. It adds flavor and ties the dish together.
Ingredients for Gravy: You’ll need 3 tablespoons of the oil used for frying, 3 tablespoons of flour, 2 cups of whole milk, and salt and pepper to taste.
Making the Roux: In the same skillet, drain all but 3 tablespoons of oil. Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and whisk constantly over medium heat until the mixture turns golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
Adding the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finishing Touches: If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency. For a richer flavor, stir in a tablespoon of butter.
Assembling the Dish
Serving the Steak: Place each fried steak on a plate, and generously ladle the creamy gravy over the top.
Garnishing and Presentation: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of paprika over the dish for a pop of color. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Suggested Sides: Classic accompaniments include mashed potatoes, collard greens, green beans, or buttery biscuits. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh side salad.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Adding Extra Flavor: Mix spices like smoked paprika, cayenne, or mustard powder into the breading for a unique twist.
Alternative Coatings: Substitute crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or cornmeal for a different texture.
Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free flour and dairy-free milk to accommodate specific dietary needs. Almond milk or oat milk can work well for the gravy.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Preventing Soggy Breading: Ensure the oil is hot enough and the steaks aren’t overcrowded in the skillet.
Avoiding Uneven Cooking: Pound the steaks to an even thickness and maintain consistent oil temperature during frying.
Fixing Gravy Mistakes: If the gravy is too thick, add more milk; if it’s too thin, cook it longer to reduce.
Pairing Suggestions for Country Fried Steak
Classic Southern Sides: Creamy coleslaw, cornbread, or black-eyed peas are ideal companions.
Beverage Options: Sweet tea, lemonade, or a light beer complements the hearty flavors of the dish.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storage Tips: Place leftover steaks in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store gravy separately.
Reheating Instructions: Warm the steak in an oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness. Heat the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Nutritional Information
Calories Per Serving: Approximately 600-700 (depending on portion size and ingredients).
Light Variations: Use leaner cuts of meat, air fry the steaks, or opt for a lighter gravy made with low-fat milk.
FAQs about Country Fried Steak Recipe
What is country fried steak?
Country fried steak, also known as chicken-fried steak, is a classic Southern dish made by coating tenderized beef steaks in a seasoned breading and frying them to crispy perfection. It’s typically served with creamy gravy and pairs well with mashed potatoes or vegetables.
What cut of beef is best for country fried steak?
Cube steak is the most common choice for country fried steak. It’s tenderized, affordable, and cooks quickly, making it ideal for this dish. You can also use round steak or other tender cuts, but ensure they are pounded thin for even cooking.
What ingredients do I need for the breading?
The breading typically consists of all-purpose flour, eggs, milk, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Some recipes may add a bit of hot sauce or buttermilk to enhance flavor.
How do I make the gravy?
The gravy for country fried steak is usually made by combining the pan drippings with flour to create a roux. Then, milk or cream is added, and the mixture is seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional spices for a rich and flavorful accompaniment.
Can I bake country fried steak instead of frying it?
Yes, for a healthier option, you can bake the breaded steaks in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until golden and cooked through, usually about 20-25 minutes. Spray the steaks lightly with cooking oil to ensure a crispy texture.
What side dishes go well with country fried steak?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, or coleslaw are popular sides. You can also serve it with a biscuit or cornbread for a true Southern-style meal.
Conclusion
Country fried steak is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together crispy breading, tender meat, and rich, creamy gravy in a single dish. It’s a Southern tradition that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Follow this guide, and you’ll be serving up restaurant-quality country fried steak right in your own kitchen.
