Description
Classic Southern-style Chicken Fried Steak featuring tenderized beef steaks marinated in buttermilk, coated in a seasoned flour mixture, and fried to a crispy golden brown. Perfectly paired with creamy homemade gravy for a comforting hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Marinade
- 1 pound beef steak (round steak or cube steak)
- 1 cup buttermilk
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Frying
- 2 cups vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Marinate Steak: Place the beef steaks in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour, ideally overnight, to tenderize and enhance flavor.
- Prepare Flour Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, mixing thoroughly to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Coat Steaks: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Remove steaks from buttermilk, dip each piece first into the beaten eggs, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring full coating.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable or canola oil into a skillet and heat over medium heat until the temperature reaches 350°F (175°C), ideal for frying to achieve a crispy crust without greasiness.
- Fry Steaks: Carefully place each coated steak into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried steaks and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with homemade gravy and your choice of sides for a classic meal experience.
Notes
- Marinating the steak overnight in buttermilk significantly improves tenderness and flavor.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for optimal crispiness and to prevent oil absorption.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature accurately.
- Serve with traditional white sausage gravy or your favorite homemade gravy.
- Cube steak is preferred for its tenderness and texture in this recipe.
