Chicken fried steak is a beloved comfort food that combines the simplicity of frying with the savory delight of beef. Originating from Southern cuisine, this dish is often paired with creamy gravy—a perfect accompaniment to enhance its flavor. If you’ve ever pondered over how to replicate this culinary gem using Omaha Steaks, you’ve landed in the right place. This extensive article will walk you through the process of cooking chicken fried steak, from selecting the right cuts of meat to serving it hot on your dinner table.
Understanding Omaha Steaks: The Perfect Choice for Chicken Fried Steak
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand why Omaha Steaks is an excellent choice for chicken fried steak. Omaha Steaks is renowned for providing high-quality, sustainably sourced meats, ensuring that each bite bursts with flavor. When you choose Omaha Steaks, you’re selecting premium cuts that make your chicken fried steak truly delectable.
When preparing chicken fried steak, you’ll want to opt for the right cut of meat. Traditionally, cube steak is used for this dish. Cube steak has been tenderized, making it perfect for frying. Omaha Steaks offers a variety of options, including:
- Cube Steak: The classic choice for chicken fried steak, tenderized and ready for breading and frying.
- Round Steak: A slightly firmer alternative that can also deliver great texture and taste when cooked properly.
Selecting the best option can significantly impact the final dish, making your meal an unforgettable experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create a mouth-watering chicken fried steak, gather the following ingredients:
For the Steak
- 1 pound of Omaha Steaks cube steak
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Gravy
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for gravy)
- 2 cups milk (whole milk for a richer flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder or onion powder for added flavor
Preparing the Chicken Fried Steak
Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s dive into the preparation and cooking process.
Step 1: Tenderizing and Seasoning the Steaks
Before breading, it’s good practice to season your cube steak. Start by using a meat mallet to gently pound the cube steak further, if desired. This will enhance its tenderness.
- Season the Steak: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of each steak.
- Marinate (Optional): For additional flavor, marinate the steaks in buttermilk for 1-2 hours. This adds moisture and helps with tenderization.
Step 2: Preparing the Breading Station
To create that crispy breadcrumb coating that chicken fried steak is known for, you will need to establish a breading station. This consists of three parts:
- Flour Mixture: In one bowl, add 2 cups of all-purpose flour. You can season the flour with salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer.
- Egg Wash: In another bowl, crack the two eggs and mix them with a splash of buttermilk until well combined.
- Final Flour Mixture: Fill a third bowl with another 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour that will be used for making the gravy.
Step 3: Breading the Steaks
- Dredge the Steak: Begin by dredging each cube steak in the seasoned flour, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip in Egg Wash: Next, dip the coated steak into the egg wash, allowing the excess to drip off.
- Final Coat: Finally, return the steak to the flour mixture for a second coating. This double-breading technique will give you a satisfying crunch once cooked.
Step 4: Frying the Steaks
Now comes the fun part—frying! Follow these steps for a perfect, golden chicken fried steak:
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep frying pan, add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1/4 inch. Preheat the oil over medium-high heat; you can test it by sprinkling a little flour into the oil. If it sizzles, it’s ready.
- Fry the Steaks: Carefully place the breaded cube steak into the hot oil, leaving enough space between each piece. Fry in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lower the oil temperature.
- Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry each steak for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches a golden brown color. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Making the Gravy
What’s chicken fried steak without rich, creamy gravy? Follow these steps to whip up a delightful gravy.
Step 1: Prepare the Roux
- In the same skillet used to fry the steaks, keep about 1/4 cup of the drippings (add more oil if necessary to make 1/4 cup).
- Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour and cook over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until it forms a roux and turns golden brown.
Step 2: Add the Liquid
- Gradually add 2 cups of milk to the roux while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue to cook until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. If your gravy is too thick, just add more milk until you achieve your desired consistency.
Step 3: Season the Gravy
Taste the gravy and season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic or onion powder to taste.
Serving Your Chicken Fried Steak
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to serve! Here are some ideas to create a well-rounded meal:
- Plate the Chicken Fried Steak: Place the golden, crispy chicken fried steak on a plate.
- Generously Pour Gravy: Don’t be shy—douse the steak with your homemade gravy.
- Accompaniments: Serve with classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, collard greens, or corn on the cob. These sides perfectly complement the richness of the chicken fried steak and gravy.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with chicken fried steak!), you can store them properly to maintain their flavor:
Storing
- Allow the chicken fried steak to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
- For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes so that the breading stays crispy.
- You can also use a microwave, but the texture may not be as satisfying.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken fried steak with Omaha Steaks is an experience that can elevate your culinary skills while satisfying your cravings for comforting, hearty food. From preparing the steak to serving it with creamy gravy, each step contributes to creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also a joy to make.
Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, this classic Southern dish will surely be a hit. So grab your apron, follow this guide, and enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade chicken fried steak—complete with that unforgettable homemade gravy!
What is Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken Fried Steak is a popular Southern dish made from a breaded and fried beef steak, typically a cubed steak, and is often served with creamy gravy. It is not made from chicken, despite its name, and features a crispy exterior that contrasts with the tender meat inside. The dish is traditionally enjoyed with mashed potatoes or sometimes even with biscuits on the side.
The cooking technique involves dredging the meat in seasoned flour before frying it in oil, leading to a golden-brown crust. The term “chicken fried” refers to the frying technique rather than the protein used, which can be confusing to those unfamiliar with the dish. The gravy typically served with Chicken Fried Steak is made from the pan drippings left over from frying, adding a rich, savory complement to the meal.
How do I prepare Omaha Steaks for Chicken Fried Steak?
Preparing Omaha Steaks for Chicken Fried Steak involves thawing the steaks properly if they are frozen. Ideally, you should transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator a day in advance for safe and even thawing. Once thawed, you should pat them dry with paper towels to ensure that they fry properly without steaming, which helps achieve a crispy coating.
Next, you will need to tenderize the steaks further if they are not already cubed. This can be done with a meat mallet or rolling pin, and it’s important to pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking. After tenderizing, season them generously with salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer to give the meat additional flavor before the breading process.
What ingredients do I need to make the breading?
To create a delicious breading for your Chicken Fried Steak, you will need a few key ingredients. The basic breading consists of all-purpose flour, which will be seasoned with salt, pepper, and any additional spices, such as paprika or garlic powder, to enhance the flavor. Some recipes also incorporate breadcrumbs for an extra crunch, but this is optional.
In addition to the flour, you’ll need eggs for the egg wash. Beaten eggs help the flour adhere to the meat better, resulting in a thicker and more flavorful crust. You can also use buttermilk instead of eggs for a tangy flavor, or dip the steak in a mix of both for a richer taste. Having these ingredients prepped and ready will streamline the breading process.
What is the best oil for frying Chicken Fried Steak?
When it comes to frying Chicken Fried Steak, the choice of oil can greatly impact the flavor and texture of the final dish. A neutral oil with a high smoke point is ideal, and options such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work well. These oils heat up quickly and can maintain high temperatures without burning, which is crucial for achieving that characteristic crispy crust.
If you want to add more flavor, you can blend these neutral oils with a small amount of butter for a richer taste. However, be mindful that butter has a lower smoke point, so incorporate just enough to add flavor without compromising the frying temperature. Always monitor the heat to avoid burning the oil, as this can negatively affect the crispiness and flavor of your Chicken Fried Steak.
Can Chicken Fried Steak be made ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Fried Steak can be made ahead of time, allowing for convenience when serving. You can prepare the steaks by breading them in advance and then refrigerate them until you are ready to fry them. This can be an excellent time-saver, especially if you are preparing for a larger gathering or special occasion.
If you decide to prepare the Chicken Fried Steak in advance, it’s best to fry them just before serving to maintain their crispy texture. Alternatively, you could cook them fully and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in the oven at a low temperature to restore some of the crispiness, although they are best served fresh.
What dishes pair well with Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken Fried Steak is traditionally served with comfort foods that complement its rich and savory flavors. Classic sides include creamy mashed potatoes or gravy, coleslaw, and green beans or other sautéed vegetables. The combination of these sides provides a balance of flavors and textures, making for a well-rounded meal that is satisfying and hearty.
Additionally, biscuits or cornbread are excellent accompaniments, allowing you to soak up the extra gravy from the plate. For those looking to add a splash of freshness, a simple garden salad or sautéed greens can also help brighten up the meal, providing a contrast to the heavier components. Ultimately, any hearty side that complements the dish’s flavor profile works beautifully.
How should I store leftover Chicken Fried Steak?
To store leftover Chicken Fried Steak properly, allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator. You can keep the steak in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from taking on any unwanted odors from your fridge. It’s best to consume leftovers within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and safety.
If you want to extend the storage time, consider freezing the leftovers. Wrap the Chicken Fried Steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw them in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven for the best texture, ensuring they regain some of their original crispiness.