Deep fry chicken fried steak for 3 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Ensure oil is at 350°F.
Chicken fried steak is a classic Southern comfort food. Its crispy, golden-brown crust and tender meat make it a favorite. Preparing it at home is easier than you might think. The key to a perfect chicken fried steak lies in the frying time and oil temperature.
Using a deep fryer or a large skillet, maintain the oil temperature at 350°F. Fry each steak for 3 to 5 minutes per side. This ensures a crispy crust while keeping the meat juicy. Serve it with creamy gravy and mashed potatoes for a delicious meal. Enjoy this hearty dish any day of the week.
Introduction To Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken Fried Steak is a delicious dish. It is made from a tenderized piece of beef. The beef is breaded and deep-fried. It looks like fried chicken but it’s beef. This dish is often served with gravy. It’s a favorite in the Southern United States.
Chicken Fried Steak has roots in Texas. It was likely inspired by German and Austrian immigrants. They brought the idea of wiener schnitzel. This dish became popular because it is tasty and filling. Many people enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It is a comfort food for many families.
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Choosing The Right Cut Of Meat
Chicken fried steak needs the right cut of meat. Tenderized round steak is a great choice. Cube steak is also popular. These cuts are affordable and easy to cook. Avoid tough cuts like sirloin. They do not tenderize well.
Best Cuts For Chicken Fried Steak
The best cuts are tender and easy to fry. Tenderized round steak and cube steak work well. They cook quickly and become very tender. Ribeye is also an option but more expensive.
Preparing The Meat
Before frying, the meat must be tenderized. Use a meat mallet to pound the steak. This makes it thinner and more tender. Season the meat with salt and pepper. Then, dip it in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. This creates a crispy coating.
Essential Ingredients And Tools
You need tenderized round steak for chicken fried steak. Use flour for the coating. Don’t forget the eggs and milk mixture. Add seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika for flavor. Use vegetable oil for frying.
A deep fryer or a large pot is essential. Use a meat tenderizer for the steak. Have a mixing bowl for the coating ingredients. Use tongs for handling the steak. A thermometer helps to check the oil temperature.
Preparing The Batter
Gather the following ingredients for the batter. You need flour, salt, and pepper. Also, have eggs and milk ready. Keep some paprika and garlic powder handy. Ensure everything is measured and set aside.
First, mix the flour, salt, and pepper. Add paprika and garlic powder. Stir well to combine. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Dip the steak in the flour mixture. Next, dip it in the egg mixture. Then, coat it again in the flour mixture. Make sure the steak is well covered.
Perfect Deep Frying Technique
The oil should be heated to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature. Keeping the temperature stable is important. Too hot, the steak burns. Too cool, it gets greasy. Maintain the heat for best results.
Fry each chicken fried steak for about 3-4 minutes. Flip halfway through cooking. The coating should be golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove and drain on paper towels.
Signs Of Doneness
The crust should be a deep golden brown. The edges may curl slightly. It should look crispy and not soggy. Bubbles will slow down in the oil when it’s nearly done. Always check the color and texture.
Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. It should read 165°F (74°C) inside. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak. Make sure it’s cooked all the way through. The steak should be juicy but not pink.
Serving Suggestions
Deep fry chicken fried steak for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and gravy for a hearty meal. Add a side of green beans for a balanced dish.
Side Dishes
Chicken fried steak tastes great with mashed potatoes. Green beans also make a wonderful side. You can add some corn on the cob for a sweet touch. A fresh salad balances the meal nicely. Don’t forget buttery biscuits for a complete feast.
Sauce Pairings
Gravy is a classic choice. White country gravy is especially popular. Some people prefer brown gravy for a richer flavor. Barbecue sauce offers a tangy twist. Honey mustard adds a bit of sweetness. Ranch dressing is also a tasty option for dipping.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Long To Deep Fry Chicken Fried Steak?
Deep fry chicken fried steak for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
What Oil Is Best For Deep Frying?
Use canola or peanut oil for deep frying. They have high smoke points.
Can I Use Frozen Steak To Deep Fry?
Thaw frozen steak before deep frying. This ensures even cooking.
How To Know When Steak Is Done?
Check internal temperature; it should be 165°F. Also, the crust will be golden brown.
Should I Marinate Chicken Fried Steak?
Marinating is optional but enhances flavor. A simple buttermilk marinade works well.
How To Keep Steak Crispy After Frying?
Place fried steak on a wire rack. This prevents sogginess and maintains crispiness.
Conclusion
Mastering the perfect deep-fried chicken fried steak takes practice and precision. Fry each piece for 3-4 minutes per side. Ensure the steak reaches a golden-brown color. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F. Enjoy your crispy, juicy chicken fried steak with your favorite sides.