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Best Country Fried Steak Recipe

Best Country Fried Steak Recipe
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The Best Country Fried Steak Recipe is a classic Southern comfort dish featuring tender, juicy cube steak coated in a perfectly seasoned, crispy golden crust. This hearty meal is ideal for family dinners or special occasions, offering an authentic taste of homemade Southern cooking with customizable seasoning options and an optional creamy country gravy.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak and Coating

  • 4 tenderized cube steaks (or round steaks)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups buttermilk or milk
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil (for frying)

Optional Gravy Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • Additional salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Steak: Pat cube steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better. Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Set Up Breading Stations: In one shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk or buttermilk. In another bowl, combine flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for the seasoned flour mixture.
  3. Coat the Steak: Dip each steak first into the egg wash, coating completely. Then press firmly into the seasoned flour mixture, covering thoroughly on both sides. For an extra crispy crust, repeat this dipping and dredging process once more.
  4. Fry the Steak: Heat oil in a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F or 175°C). Carefully place steaks in the pan without overcrowding and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Make the Gravy (Optional): Using leftover pan drippings, melt butter in the skillet and whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk while whisking until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

  • Choose tenderized cube steak or round steak for best flavor absorption and tenderness.
  • Dry steaks thoroughly to ensure the coating sticks well and crisps up perfectly.
  • Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying results.
  • Fry in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding and uneven cooking.
  • Double dredging creates a thicker, crunchier crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: country fried steak, Southern comfort food, crispy steak, cube steak recipe, homemade gravy, gluten-free fried steak

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/best-country-fried-steak-recipe/