Delicious Chicken Fried Steak: History, Recipe & Tips
Chicken fried steak is a quintessential dish that captures the essence of Southern comfort food. This delightful creation features tenderized beef, breaded and fried to a golden crisp, typically accompanied by a generous helping of creamy gravy. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, chicken fried steak has earned its place as a beloved staple in homes and diners across the Southern United States.
Its significance in Southern cuisine cannot be overstated; chicken fried steak embodies the region’s culinary heritage, reflecting a blend of influences, traditions, and the pursuit of hearty, soul-satisfying meals. The dish not only showcases the resourcefulness of Southern cooks but also celebrates the communal spirit of sharing comfort food with family and friends.
As we delve into the history and flavors of chicken fried steak, we’ll uncover its fascinating origins and cultural variations. Whether you’re a long-time fan or encountering this delicious dish for the first time, there’s much to appreciate in the simplicity and depth of flavor that chicken fried steak has to offer. Get ready to explore the story behind the flavors and learn how to bring this iconic dish to your own table.
History of Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak’s origins can be traced back to the early 19th century. While the exact beginnings of this dish are somewhat murky, its roots can be linked to various cooking traditions that brought together influences from both Europe and the Southern United States. One leading theory posits that chicken fried steak evolved from a tradition of breading and frying meat that European immigrants brought with them. The Germans, for instance, had a penchant for “Schnitzel,” which involves breaded and fried meat, a method that naturally found its way into Southern households.
As the dish gained popularity, it developed uniquely in the Southern U.S., particularly during the Great Depression, when economic constraints made creative food preparation essential. By using affordable cuts of beef, such as cube or round steak, cooks found a way to create a hearty meal that offered comfort without breaking the bank. Chicken fried steak soon became a staple on diner menus and in home kitchens, embodying the heartwarming spirit of Southern cooking.
The cultural significance of chicken fried steak extends beyond just its delicious flavor; it represents resilience, resourcefulness, and communal love for food. Variations of chicken fried steak can be found throughout the South, with each region adding its own touches, whether through different breading techniques or unique gravy recipes. This adaptability showcases the dish’s importance in Southern culinary identity, uniting families and communities over a shared table.
What is Chicken Fried Steak?
At its core, chicken fried steak is a breaded and fried beef dish, commonly served with a rich country-style gravy. The dish primarily features a tenderized beef cut, typically cube steak, which is pounded thin, dredged in seasoned flour, and fried until golden brown. The term “chicken fried” refers not to the use of chicken but rather to the cooking method, which is similar to how fried chicken is prepared, hence the name.
The key ingredients for chicken fried steak include high-quality beef, a well-seasoned flour mixture for breading, and a delightful gravy made from the drippings left in the pan after frying. The result is a crispy exterior that gives way to juicy, tender beef beneath, complemented perfectly by the creamy, peppery gravy that drapes over the top, providing another layer of flavor and satisfaction.
It’s essential to distinguish chicken fried steak from similar dishes like country fried steak, which sometimes features a different gravy, typically beef-based and with a slightly different texture. While the variations can be subtle, the comfort and heartiness of chicken fried steak remain undeniable, making it a beloved choice for those seeking a fulfilling meal.
Ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak
Creating the perfect chicken fried steak begins with selecting the right ingredients. While the dish is known for its simple makeup, the quality and preparation of each component play a vital role in achieving that classic flavor and texture.
Main Ingredients
- Beef: The choice of cut is crucial; cube steak is the most commonly used option due to its tenderness after being pounded. Round steak can also be a good alternative.
- Breading: Seasoned flour is vital for adding flavor. A mix of flour with salt, pepper, and optional spices enhances the crust’s taste.
- Milk or Buttermilk: These are used for dredging the steak before breading. Buttermilk, in particular, adds an extra tanginess and helps tenderize the meat.
Gravy Ingredients
- Classic White Gravy: The basic components are flour, milk, butter, and black pepper. This creamy gravy is essential for draping over the fried steak.
- Optional Spices and Ingredients: Adding spices like cayenne for heat, or garlic powder for an extra depth of flavor, can elevate the gravy experience.
Detailed Recipe for Chicken Fried Steak
Preparation Time
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s helpful to organize your time efficiently. The total cooking time for chicken fried steak typically spans around 30 minutes, alongside a 15-minute preparation period, ensuring everything is set for a delicious meal.
Directions
- Preparing the Steak: Start by tenderizing the beef, either by using a meat mallet or by purchasing cube steak from the butcher. Ensure the steak is pounded to about 1/2 inch thick for optimal frying.
- Dredging in Seasoned Flour: Set up a dredging station with one plate for the milk or buttermilk and another for the seasoned flour. Dip each steak into the milk first, allowing excess liquid to drip off, then press it into the flour mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.
- Frying the Steak: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the breaded steaks in the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
- Making the Gravy: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, whisk in an equal amount of flour and cook for about a minute. Slowly pour in milk, whisking continually until the mixture thickens. Season with black pepper and additional spices if desired.
- Assembling the Dish: To serve, place a fried steak on a plate, generously ladle the warm gravy over the top, and garnish with additional black pepper if desired.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Fried Steak
- Choosing the Right Cut of Meat: Opt for tender cuts like cube or round steak for the best results.
- Importance of Resting the Steak: Allow the fried steaks to rest briefly on paper towels after frying to maintain crispiness and remove excess oil.
- Temperature Control While Frying: Ensure the oil is hot enough to fry without absorbing too much, yet not so hot that the breading burns.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken fried steak is often at its best when paired with comforting sides and beverages to enhance the dining experience.
- Traditional Sides: Common accompaniments include creamy mashed potatoes, collard greens, and skillet cornbread, each providing a satisfying balance to the rich steak.
- Beverage Pairings: Classic Southern sweet tea is a favorite, though a refreshing cocktail can also complement the meal well, such as a light beer or a sweet mint julep.
Variations of Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak has inspired numerous variations, reflecting the creativity and adaptability of Southern cooking.
- Different Meats: Alternatives to beef include pork, chicken, or turkey, each offering a unique twist on the classic dish.
- Sauces and Gravies Twists: Experiment with sauce variations, such as peppercorn gravy for extra spice or mushroom sauce for an earthy flavor.
- Vegetarian Alternatives: For those looking for a plant-based option, consider using breaded and fried eggplant or tofu, allowing for a similar texture and flavor profile.
Health Aspects of Chicken Fried Steak
While chicken fried steak is a hearty and satisfying dish, it is also important to be mindful of its nutritional aspects.
- Caloric Content and Nutrition Breakdown: A typical serving can be calorie-dense, combining the meat, breading, and gravy.
- Suggestions for Healthier Preparations: Consider baking rather than frying the steak for a lighter version, or using a whole grain flour for the breading to boost fiber content.
FAQs About Chicken Fried Steak
- What cut of meat is best for chicken fried steak? The best cuts are tenderized cube steak or round steak, as they provide the right texture for frying.
- Can you use chicken instead of beef? Yes, chicken can be used for a variation of chicken fried steak, resulting in a lighter dish.
- How do you make a lighter version of chicken fried steak? Baking the steak instead of frying and using whole grain flour in the breading can help achieve a lighter meal.
- What is the difference between chicken fried steak and country fried steak? The main distinction lies in the gravy; chicken fried steak uses a creamy white gravy, while country fried steak often features a beef-based gravy.
- Can chicken fried steak be made in advance? While best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated, though the crispiness may diminish.
Conclusion
Chicken fried steak, with its rich history and comforting flavors, remains a cherished dish that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, experimenting with variations can make each experience unique and memorable.
chicken fried steak
Equipment
- 1 meat mallet
- 2 mixing bowls
- 1 shallow dish
- 1 frying pan or skillet
- 1 whisk
- 1 slotted spoon
- 1 paper towels
Ingredients
- 4 pieces beef cube steaks About 1 pound total.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional.
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup vegetable oil For frying.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour For the gravy.
- 2 cups milk For the gravy.
- to taste salt and pepper For the gravy.
Instructions
- Use a meat mallet to pound the cube steaks to a uniform thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- In one shallow dish, mix together 2 cups of flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
- Dip each piece of steak first into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour, ensuring they are well coated.
- In a large frying pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot (about 350°F).
- Carefully add the breaded steaks to the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, leaving about 1/4 cup of the drippings. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of flour, whisking constantly until it turns a light brown color.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, bringing to a simmer while stirring until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the fried steak on plates and generously pour the gravy over the top. Serve hot with your choice of side dishes.
