Country Fried Steak

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, look no further than Country Fried Steak. This classic Southern comfort food is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with love, nostalgia, and savory goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting family for a cozy gathering, this recipe will surely bring everyone to the table smiling.

The best part? You can whip up this delightful dish in just 40 minutes using simple pantry ingredients. It’s perfect for both seasoned chefs and those who are new to the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this Country Fried Steak, it might just become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in only 40 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly: With its crispy exterior and tender beef, even picky eaters will be asking for seconds!
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of seasoned crust and creamy gravy creates a comforting dish that warms the soul.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the steaks ahead of time and fry them just before serving for an easy meal.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that pleases any crowd.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Country Fried Steak, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 beef cube steaks (½ pound each)
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (divided)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce (such as Tabasco)
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 cups vegetable shortening (for frying)
• 4 cups whole milk (for gravy)
• kosher salt and black pepper (to taste, for gravy)

Variations

One of the wonderful things about Country Fried Steak is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using chicken breast or turkey cutlets instead of beef.
• Add spices: For an extra kick, mix in some cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour mixture to spice things up!
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs while keeping it delicious.
• Experiment with sauces: Try different sauces like ranch or creamy mushroom instead of traditional gravy for a unique twist.

How to Make Country Fried Steak

Step 1: Pound the Steaks

Use a meat mallet to pound each cube steak to approximately ¼ inch thickness. This step is crucial as it ensures even cooking. Plus, tenderizing the meat makes every bite melt in your mouth!

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Mixture

In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour with baking powder, baking soda, black pepper, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly helps distribute the seasonings evenly across each steak.

Step 3: Whisk Together Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot pepper sauce, egg, and minced garlic until smooth. This flavorful batter adds moisture and depth to your steak’s crust.

Step 4: Dredge the Steaks

First, dredge each steak in the flour mixture—shake off any excess. Then dip them into the buttermilk batter before returning them to the flour for a final coating. Press gently so that the coating adheres well; this creates that delicious crispy crust we all love!

Step 5: Heat the Oil

Heat vegetable shortening in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F. Using a thermometer helps ensure you’re frying at the right temperature so that your steaks turn golden brown without burning.

Step 6: Fry the Steaks

Fry steaks in batches for about three minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. Remember not to overcrowd the pan; giving them space allows them to fry evenly!

Step 7: Drain on Wire Rack

Once cooked, transfer your fried steaks to a wire rack. This keeps them crispy as they drain off excess oil—no one likes soggy steak!

Step 8: Make the Gravy

For that luscious gravy we all adore: whisk the remaining flour into the pan drippings. Gradually add whole milk while stirring continuously until thickened to your liking. Season with kosher salt and black pepper for taste.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Finally, serve your Country Fried Steak hot with plenty of that creamy gravy poured over top. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for Making Country Fried Steak

Making the perfect country fried steak is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve that crispy, tender delight every time!

• Pound the Steaks Evenly: Ensuring your cube steaks are pounded to an even thickness helps them cook uniformly, resulting in a tender bite throughout.

• Double Dredge for Extra Crunch: The two-step dredging process—first in the flour mixture, then in the buttermilk batter, and back into the flour—creates a thick, crunchy crust that’s oh-so-satisfying.

• Maintain Oil Temperature: Using a thermometer to check that your frying oil is at 350°F is crucial. If it’s too cool, the steaks can become greasy; if it’s too hot, they may burn before cooking through.

• Let Them Drain on a Wire Rack: After frying, placing your steaks on a wire rack keeps them crisp by allowing air circulation instead of letting them sit in oil or moisture.

• Whisk Gravy Continuously: When making your gravy, whisking constantly while adding milk will prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture that perfectly complements your steak.

How to Serve Country Fried Steak

Country fried steak is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Presenting this dish with care can elevate its appeal and flavor profile. Here are some ideas for serving it up beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a mild onion flavor and an appealing crunch that contrasts nicely with the richness of the gravy.

Side Dishes

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs perfectly with country fried steak. Their smooth texture balances out the crispy steak and gravy beautifully.

• Collard Greens: These savory greens cooked with garlic and spices add a nutritious element to your meal while complementing the hearty flavors of the steak.

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory notes of country fried steak. The slightly sweet taste pairs well with both the meat and gravy.

• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots provides a crunchy, tangy side that cuts through the richness of the dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your delicious homemade country fried steak! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Country Fried Steak recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious comfort food throughout the week. With just a few simple steps, you can store and reheat leftovers to keep the flavors fresh and satisfying.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the country fried steak to cool completely before storing.
• Place the steaks in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the cooked country fried steak.
• Wrap each steak individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Label the bag with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen steaks in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, use an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes on each side until crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Country Fried Steak.

Can I make country fried steak ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the country fried steak and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat it before serving, and it’ll taste as good as fresh.

What is the best way to serve country fried steak?

Country Fried Steak is best served hot with homemade gravy on top. Add your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or green beans for a comforting meal!

How can I make my country fried steak extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, ensure that your frying oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan while frying. A double coating of flour can also enhance crunchiness!

Final Thoughts

This Country Fried Steak recipe is truly a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. It’s not only quick to prepare but also offers that classic Southern flavor we all love. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends! Don’t hesitate to try it out; I know you’ll be delighted with every bite!