Mastering the Art of Fast Fixin’ Country Fried Steaks
Are you craving a delicious, home-cooked meal that embodies the essence of Southern comfort food? Look no further than country fried steaks. This iconic dish combines tenderized beef, crispy breading, and a creamy gravy that will have your taste buds singing. In this article, we will explore the art of preparing fast fixin’ country fried steaks with easy-to-follow instructions, tips, and tricks to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
What Are Country Fried Steaks?
Country fried steaks, often referred to as chicken-fried steaks, consist of seasoned, breaded beef cutlets that are fried until golden brown. This dish is typically served with a rich white gravy, making it a beloved favorite in Southern cuisine. The simplicity and heartiness of country fried steaks make them ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where comfort food is needed.
Ingredients You Will Need
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create mouthwatering country fried steaks:
- 4 beef cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 1 cup buttermilk (for soaking)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Ingredients for gravy:
- 1/4 cup of the leftover frying oil
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Process to Make Country Fried Steaks
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making delicious country fried steaks:
Step 1: Tenderize the Meat
Using a meat mallet, gently pound the beef cube steaks until they are about 1/4 inch thick. This step not only tenderizes the meat but also helps the breading adhere better during frying.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow dishes for the breading process:
- In the first dish, pour in the buttermilk.
- In the second dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In the third dish, beat the eggs until smooth.
Step 3: Dredge the Steaks
Now it’s time to coat your steaks:
- Dip each steak into the buttermilk, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Next, transfer it to the beaten eggs, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off.
- Finally, dredge the steak in the seasoned flour, pressing gently to ensure the flour sticks.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, sprinkle a little flour into the oil; it should sizzle upon contact.
Step 5: Fry the Steaks
Carefully place the breaded steaks into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Make the Gravy
Once the steaks are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. In the same skillet, add 1/4 cup of the leftover frying oil. Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour, stirring continuously until it turns a light brown color.
Gradually add in 2 cups of milk, whisking constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you desire a smoother gravy, consider using a blender.
Troubleshooting Tips for Perfect Country Fried Steaks
Even the best cooks encounter challenges. Here are some troubleshooting tips to ensure your country fried steaks turn out perfectly:
- Steaks are soggy: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the steaks. If the oil isn’t hot, the breading will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
- Uneven cooking: Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain an even cooking temperature.
- Gravy is lumpy: Whisk the flour and oil together thoroughly before adding the milk. If lumps form, blend the gravy until smooth.
- Steaks lack flavor: Make sure to season both the flour and the buttermilk adequately. Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to your personal taste!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your country fried steaks are ready, it’s time to serve! Here are a few suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Pair with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw.
- Top your steaks with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of biscuits or cornbread to soak up that delicious gravy.
- For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce to your gravy or on top of your steak.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of making country fried steaks is a rewarding experience that brings the flavors of Southern cuisine right to your kitchen. With the right ingredients, techniques, and a little bit of practice, you can create a dish that will impress family and friends alike. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite. For more recipes and tips on Southern cooking, check out this helpful resource. Happy cooking!
This article is in the category Recipes and created by Cookingtipsblog Team