### Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy: A Southern Classic Worth Every Bite
Welcome to today’s recipe: a succulent Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy that’s set to satisfy your comfort-food cravings. This dish is a classic Southern speciality featuring a perfectly seasoned, crispy-fried cube steak doused in a creamy, rich gravy. If you’re ready for a comforting culinary journey into the Southern states, keep reading!
## Why make this Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy
There are plenty of reasons to embrace this incredible dish: from its tender, juicy steak, to the comforting layers of flavor in the Country Gravy. But here are just a few to start:
🔹 Authentic: This recipe delivers a restaurant-quality, Southern-style experience straight into your kitchen.
🔹 Versatility: It’s perfect for both weekday meals, and special occasions.
🔹 Easy: Prepares in under an hour, using simple ingredients commonly found in your pantry.
## How to make Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy
### Ingredients:
#### For the Steak:
– 4 cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
#### For the Country Gravy:
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
### Directions:
1. Start by preparing the steak: mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a dish. In a separate dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
2. Coat each steak in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and then the flour again.
3. Heat some oil in a skillet and brown the steaks on both sides until crispy golden and cooked through.
4. To make the gravy, keep a few tablespoons of oil in the skillet, and stir in the flour till it’s golden. Gradually whisk in the milk and stir until the gravy thickens. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
## How to Serve Your Chicken Fried Steak
Serve this Southern classic hot, smothered in gravy. Ideal accompaniments are mashed potatoes, buttered corn, or fresh salad for a balanced feast.
## How to Store Your Dish
Fridge: Store leftover steaks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap each steak in aluminum foil or freezer bag, place in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Gravy can go in a separate freezer-safe bag.
## Tips to Make Perfect Chicken Fried Steak
– Pound your steaks well: This helps tenderize the meat and allows for even cooking.
– Double-dip the steaks: This promotes a thick, crispy crust.
– Cook over medium heat: This can help ensure the steak is cooked evenly.
## Variations
Consider adding fresh herbs to the gravy or enclosing your steaks with panko bread crumbs for a textured twist.
## FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of steak?
A: Yes, while traditionally cube steak is used, you can also use round steak or tenderized sirloin steak.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Q: Can I freeze the fried steaks with the gravy?
A: Yes, but it is recommended to freeze them separately. When you want to serve, thaw and heat the steak in the oven and the gravy on the stovetop.
Relish this Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy and experience a mouthful of Southern comfort right in your home. Happy Cooking!