Chicken fried steak
Chicken fried steak is a simple but scrumptious concoction. A cube steak is usually used for the base and is then dredged in an egg wash and coated in seasoned flour. The steak is then pan-fried in vegetable oil, butter or lard until golden brown and crispy. Depending on your preference, you can also deep fry the steak, which gives it an irresistibly crunchy exterior.
No matter how you choose to cook it, chicken fried steak always delivers a memorable flavor experience. The savory proteins of the steak are balanced by the comforting warmth of the hearty flour coating. A sprinkle of salt and pepper adds a delightful kick, while the delicately fried coating seals in juices and imparts its own delightful flavor.
Chicken fried steak is a great accompaniment to a variety of sides. Mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans and other veggies all work beautifully with this delectable morsel. It's also delightful on its own, as the crispy coating and succulent steak are a match made in heaven.
There's something about the taste of chicken fried steak that takes you straight home. Whether you're in the mood for a toothsome treat or just searching for some good old-fashioned comfort food, this classic Southern dish is sure to do the trick. So next time you're looking for a scrumptious meal, don't forget the chicken fried steak – it won't let you down.
Chicken fried steak recipes
Amazing Chicken fried steak recipes sourced from the web.
The origin of Chicken fried steak
As a staple of American comfort food, Chicken Fried Steak is a dish with a long and interesting history. Originating in Germany, the dish was brought to Texas by German immigrants in the mid-1800s. These German settlers combined their love for fried meats with their fondness for upscale Southern cuisine, creating an unparalleled flavor experience that has stayed with us for generations.
Drawing from a wide array of influences from both sides of the Atlantic, Chicken Fried Steak came to be one of the most beloved and iconic dishes in the American south. The starting point of this traditional dish begins with a type of steak - typically cube steak; a tough cut of meat that is tenderized through beating with a mallet or rolling pin. This process breaks down the connective tissues within the steak and allows it to absorb flavors more deeply.
After being tenderized, the cube steak is dredged in a mixture of flour, salt, pepper and other spices, giving it the signature "chicken fried" texture. Then, it is fried in lard or cooking oil until it is a golden brown. Afterward, it is usually topped with cream gravy, adding a delicious, tangy finish.
Chicken Fried Steak transcends time and geography. It has evolved from a simple yet flavorful meal to become a beloved classic for people everywhere. With its ability to evoke memories of home cooking and comfort food, Chicken Fried Steak is guaranteed to remain an all-American favorite for generations to come.
Types of Chicken fried steak
Chicken fried steak is an iconic Texan dish that has its roots in the traditional German dish called Schnitzel. It is a tenderized piece of beef steak that is lightly coated in flour, eggs and spices. Once fried, it is served with a creamy gravy made from the pan drippings. This delectable entree is a favorite amongst many and has been given many twists and turns to make it even tastier.
For starters, there's the classic Southern fried version which is comprised of dredging the steak in a buttermilk batter and a blend of simple seasonings before being deep fried for a crispy golden brown crust. This method of preparation lends itself to a succulent and juicy center that is full of flavor.
You can also opt for a lighter style called "pan-fried" where the steak is seasoned with a more savory blend of herbs and spices and then cooked in butter or oil until lightly seared. The result is a tender yet slightly crisp exterior that gives way to a juicy and salty interior. This technique creates a flavorful bite that combines the robust flavors of the herbs and spices along with the rich buttery finish.
If you’re looking for something a bit more exotic, try a Mexican-style chicken fried steak. Here the steak is marinated with a blend of chili powder, garlic, cumin, oregano and lime juice before coating it in a spicy blend of cornmeal and flour. This leads to a crunchy yet savory crust and a tender meat that has a subtle kick of heat.
Finally, for those who are after something sweet and tangy, there’s a Hawaiian take on the chicken fried steak. This features a tangy marinade full of soy sauce and pineapple juice as well as a coating of panko crumbs and coconut flakes. When fried, these ingredients combine to create a crunchy texture alongside a zesty and sweet flavor.
No matter how you choose to prepare this classic dish, chicken fried steak is sure to be a hit! With so many different variations and techniques, it's easy to find one that suits your palate. So go ahead and give it a try!