Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy

Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy : A Comfort Food Masterpiece

Last night's dinner was beyond stellar—our Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy deserves more than 5 stars! This dish transcends mere culinary delight; it's the ultimate comfort food that transports you to the heart of the South, all from the comfort of your home. Rooted in history, it's a delightful fusion of country flavors and the tradition of Wiener Schnitzel brought by German immigrants. Transforming a simple cut of beef into a soft, crispy, golden brown masterpiece, this meal is a beacon of warmth after a long day.

Perfect Pairings:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ideal companion, ready to soak up all the richness of the creamy gravy.
• Green Beans or Corn on the Cob: For a fresh touch, serve with lightly warmed green beans or bright corn on the cob.
• Flaky Cookie: Elevate the comfort experience with a flaky cookie, a delightful addition to any dinner table.

Ingredients: For the Steak:

• 4 steak cubes (about 1/2 inch thick)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (reserved from frying)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coating:
   • In a small dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Create the Egg Wash:
   • In another dish, whisk together eggs and milk to form the egg wash.
3. Coat the Steaks:
   • Coat each steak twice—first in the flour mixture, then in the egg wash, and finally in the flour mixture again for a double dose of crispiness.
4. Fry the Steaks:
   • In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-low heat. Fry steaks for about 4 minutes on each side until a fine golden brown. Avoid overcrowding. Place on paper towels to drain.
5. Make the Gravy:
   • Reserve about 2 tablespoons of oil in the pan. Add flour and stir until browned. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring a smooth, lump-free gravy. Season with salt and pepper and continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve:
   • Place steaks on plates and generously pour the luscious gravy over them.

Changes and Advice:

• Add Some Heat: Infuse a hint of spice by incorporating chili pepper into the flour mix.
• Chicken Fried Chicken: Opt for chicken breasts instead of cube steaks for a delightful twist on the classic.
• Maintain the Crunch: If reheating, use the oven on a wire rack to retain the crispy texture.
• Lighten Up: Balance the richness with a side salad for a lighter dining experience.

This easy-to-follow, incredibly tasty recipe for Chicken Fried Steak is perfect for treating yourself or your family to a special Southern-inspired meal at home. Let each comforting bite transport you to the charming tastes of the South.