Chicken fried steak, or CFS, is a beloved Southern staple that's as comforting as it is delicious. With its crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, this dish can be a bit tricky to get right. However, with a few simple tips, you can master this classic dish, impressing friends and family alike. In this blog post, we'll go through five straightforward steps to ensure your chicken fried steak comes out perfect every time.
Choose the Right Cut
The first step to perfect chicken fried steak is selecting the appropriate cut of beef. Here are some points to consider:
- Tenderness: Opt for cuts like cube steak, which is essentially round steak that has been tenderized by being pounded or run through a mechanical tenderizer, creating small indentations.
- Thickness: Look for steaks that are about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Thinner cuts might dry out, while thicker cuts might not cook through evenly.
- Fat Content: A little marbling will keep the steak moist during cooking, but too much fat can lead to excessive greasiness.
🍲 Note: If you can't find cube steak, you can tenderize a round steak at home using a meat mallet.
Breading Station Setup
Proper breading is crucial for the iconic crunch of chicken fried steak. Here’s how to set up your station:
- Seasoned Flour: Combine flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for added flavor.
- Egg Wash: Beat eggs with a bit of milk or buttermilk for a smoother coating.
- Crumb Mixture: Some prefer a simple seasoned flour breading, but adding breadcrumbs or panko can give an extra crispy texture.
Make sure to keep your hands clean or use one hand for wet ingredients and the other for dry to prevent clumping.
The Double Dipping Technique
To achieve an ultra-crispy exterior, you’ll want to:
- Dip the steak in seasoned flour.
- Submerge it in the egg wash.
- Return it to the flour or crumb mixture for a second coating.
This method ensures an extra layer of crunchy goodness while sealing in moisture.
Cooking the Steak
Now that your steaks are perfectly breaded, here are some cooking tips:
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at around 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy. If the oil is too hot, the breading will burn before the meat is cooked; if it’s not hot enough, the steak will absorb too much oil.
- Frying Method: Fry for about 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Use a deep skillet or cast-iron pan for even cooking.
- Resting: Let the steaks rest on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
Pairing with Cream Gravy
No chicken fried steak is complete without its creamy companion, the cream gravy. Here’s a simple recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| All-purpose Flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Reserved Frying Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To Taste |
| Black Pepper | To Taste |
Steps to make the gravy:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and add the flour to create a roux. Cook until it's golden.
- Whisk in the milk and frying oil, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Season with salt and a generous amount of pepper. The gravy should be thick but pourable.
🥄 Note: For an extra flavor boost, use some of the dripping from the steak for your gravy.
From the selection of the meat to the final pour of the luscious gravy, each step in creating a chicken fried steak contributes to its perfection. By choosing the right cut of meat, setting up a proper breading station, employing a double dipping technique, frying at the optimal temperature, and pairing your steak with a rich cream gravy, you can enjoy a homestyle dish that truly stands out. Remember, practice makes perfect. If you find your breading slipping off or the steak isn't as tender as you'd like, revisit these tips, make adjustments, and keep refining your technique. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving for comfort food, your kitchen has the potential to create chicken fried steak that rivals even the best diner in town. In closing, the joy of Southern cooking lies in its simplicity and the heartfelt warmth it brings to the table. With these simple tips, you're equipped to bring that joy directly to your dining room.
What is the difference between country-fried and chicken-fried steak?
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While very similar, country-fried steak often uses a breadcrumb coating, and might include a creamier gravy. Chicken-fried steak, on the other hand, sticks to a flour breading and traditionally has a milk-based white pepper gravy.
Can I make chicken fried steak healthier?
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Yes, you can! Use lighter oils for frying like canola, bake instead of deep frying, or use an air fryer for a less greasy version. Also, incorporate leaner cuts of beef.
How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
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Key factors include: not overcrowding the pan, ensuring the steak is at room temperature before breading, patting the meat dry before breading, and using a double breading technique.
Can I prepare chicken fried steak in advance?
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You can bread the steaks ahead of time and refrigerate them, but they’re best when fried fresh. If you must prepare in advance, consider reheating in the oven at a low temperature to maintain crispiness.
