Chicken-fried steak, often called “Poor Man’s Chicken Fried Steak,” is a quintessential Southern comfort dish that has won hearts across America. Despite its name, there’s no chicken involved. This dish features a breaded and fried steak, typically served with creamy gravy, making it a hearty meal that’s easy on the budget. But what exactly is this dish, and how did it earn its name? Let’s dive into its origins, ingredients, and how you can make this delightful dish at home.
What is a Chicken-Fried Steak Made Of?
Chicken-fried steak is a dish that originated in the United States, particularly in the Southern region. The name “chicken-fried” comes from the cooking method used, which is similar to frying chicken. Traditionally, this dish is made with a thin, tenderized piece of beef, often a cut known as the “poor man’s steak,” which is usually a more affordable cut like cube steak or round steak. These cuts are tenderized, breaded, and then fried to golden perfection.
The dish’s name might confuse some—why is it called chicken-fried steak when there’s no chicken? The term “chicken-fried” refers to the style of cooking rather than the ingredients. It’s prepared much like fried chicken: the steak is coated in seasoned flour and fried until crispy, hence the name.
Ingredients for Poor Man’s Chicken Fried Steak
To make the perfect Poor Man’s Chicken Fried Steak, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Steak:
- 4 pieces of cube steak (about 4-6 ounces each)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions: How to Make Country Fried Steak
Preparing the Steak:
- Tenderize the Meat: If you’re using a tougher cut of meat, make sure it’s well tenderized. Cube steak is already tenderized, making it a great choice for this recipe.
- Season the Flour: In a large shallow dish, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In another dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Dredge the Steaks: Dip each steak into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then dip it into the egg wash and back into the flour mixture. Press the flour onto the steak to create a thick, even coating.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small pinch of flour sizzles immediately upon contact.
- Fry the Steaks: Carefully place the steaks in the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
Making the Gravy:
- Remove Excess Oil: After frying the steaks, pour off most of the oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons and any browned bits in the skillet.
- Make a Roux: Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir to prevent lumps. Cook until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season to Taste: Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Serving:
Serve the chicken-fried steak hot, smothered in gravy. It pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Tips and Variations: Making It Your Own
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Fried Steak:
- Use a Heavy Skillet: A cast-iron skillet works best for frying as it maintains heat evenly.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the steaks in batches if necessary to avoid lowering the oil temperature, which can make the coating soggy.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the steaks rest on a wire rack after frying to keep them crispy.
Variations:
- Country Fried Hamburger Steaks with Gravy: For a twist, you can use ground beef patties instead of steak. This variation is known as country-fried hamburger steak, which is equally delicious.
- Chicken Fried Steak Patties: Another popular variation is using pre-formed beef patties. These are often quicker to cook and can be a great option for weeknight dinners.
- Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
Can You Use Hamburger to Make Chicken Fried Steak
Absolutely! Ground beef can be formed into patties, breaded, and fried in the same way. This is a budget-friendly option and a great way to switch things up.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
Note: The nutritional values may vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.
Poor Man’s Chicken Fried Steak is a dish that brings comfort to the table. Its crispy exterior, tender meat, and rich, creamy gravy make it a meal that’s loved by all ages. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is straightforward and delivers satisfying results every time.