Name: Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 beef cube steaks; 2 cups (480 ml) buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1.5 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon (2 g) paprika; 0.5 teaspoon (1 g) cayenne pepper, optional; 1 teaspoon (3 g) garlic powder; 1 teaspoon (3 g) onion powder; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Vegetable oil, for shallow frying; 0.25 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour (for gravy); 2.5 cups (600 ml) whole milk; Salt, to taste (for gravy); Black pepper, to taste (for gravy)

Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak

Looking to bring a taste of Southern comfort to your dinner table? This Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak recipe is a delightful blend of juicy beef, crispy coating, and savory gravy that will leave your family asking for seconds. With its tasty aroma wafting through your kitchen, each bite is an indulgent treat featuring a perfectly crunchy exterior that gives way to tender meat inside. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend family meal or more festive gatherings, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a classic comfort food that’s easy to whip up at home!

Ingredients

4 beef cube steaks: These provide the hearty, meaty base of the dish. Choose steaks that are approximately 1 cm thick for even cooking.
2 cups (480 ml) buttermilk: The buttermilk adds a creamy texture and helps to tenderize the meat for a flavorful, moist result.
2 large eggs: They help to bind the flour coating to the steaks, creating a crispy crust.
1.5 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour: The main ingredient for the breading, which gives the steak its crispy crunch.
1 teaspoon (2 g) paprika: Adds a subtle warmth and enhances the flavor of the breading.
0.5 teaspoon (1 g) cayenne pepper, optional: For an extra kick, this spice adds some heat to the dish.
1 teaspoon (3 g) garlic powder: Provides depth of flavor to the breading.
1 teaspoon (3 g) onion powder: Enhances the overall taste and aromatics of the dish.
Salt, to taste: Essential for seasoning the meat and the flour mixture.
Black pepper, to taste: Complements the flavor profile of the steak.
Vegetable oil, for shallow frying: Used to fry the steaks for a golden, crispy crust.
0.25 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour: This is used in the gravy to thicken it to the perfect consistency.
2.5 cups (600 ml) whole milk: Adds creaminess to the gravy, making it rich and delicious.
Salt, to taste: For seasoning the gravy.
Black pepper, to taste: Enhances the flavor of the gravy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Tenderize the Steaks: Place the cube steaks between layers of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound each steak to a thickness of about 0.5 cm. This helps to tenderize the meat for better texture.
Season the Steaks: Season both sides of the steaks with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This enhances the flavor of the meat itself.
Prepare the Buttermilk Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until well combined. This mixture will help the flour stick to the steaks.
Mix the Flour Coating: In a separate dish, combine 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour with paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the spices.
Dredge the Steaks: Take each steak and first dredge it in the seasoned flour, making sure to coat it fully. Next, dip it into the buttermilk mixture, and return it to the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even coating.
Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet until it reaches a depth of about 1.25 cm. Heat over medium-high until the oil is shimmering.
Fry the Steaks: Carefully add the steaks to the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Turn them once, cooking until they are golden brown and crisp. When done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Make the Gravy: Pour off most of the oil from the pan, leaving about 30 ml along with the browned bits. Add 0.25 cup of flour and cook, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to form a light roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, scraping up any fond from the bottom of the pan. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens, which will take about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve: Arrange the fried steaks on plates and generously ladle the hot country gravy over each portion. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting dish!

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 580 per serving

Tips, Storage & Variations

For the crispiest coating, let the breaded steaks rest for 10 minutes before frying. This helps the breading stick better.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
For a twist on the classic flavor, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the flour mixture.

FAQ

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What cut of beef is best for chicken fried steak?
Beef cube steaks are ideal due to their tenderness and texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

How can I make the gravy thicker?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, use more flour when making the roux, or reduce the amount of milk.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.

Is there a substitute for buttermilk?
Yes, you can mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to make a buttermilk substitute.

How do I reheat chicken fried steak?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for best results.

Conclusion

There you have it! This Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak is a recipe that not only satisfies comfort food cravings but also impresses with its delightful flavors and textures. Don’t miss the chance to bring this classic dish to your kitchen, and feel free to explore variations to make it your own. If you’re looking for more delicious ideas, check out this chicken fried steak recipe or try the ultimate chicken fried steak with gravy for other tasty options. Enjoy!