Description
Classic Southern-style chicken fried steak featuring tender beef steak marinated in buttermilk, coated in seasoned flour, and pan-fried to a golden crisp. Served traditionally with homemade gravy, this hearty dish offers a flavorful, crispy crust and juicy interior, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Steak
- 1 pound beef steak (round steak or cube steak)
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For Frying
- 2 cups vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Marinate the steak: Place the beef steak in a bowl and cover with 1 cup of buttermilk. Refrigerate and allow to marinate for at least one hour, preferably overnight, to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Coat the steak: Beat the eggs in another bowl. Remove the marinated steak from the buttermilk, dip first into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the surface to create a thick coating.
- Heat the oil: Pour the vegetable or canola oil into a skillet and heat over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor temperature for perfect frying.
- Fry the steak: Carefully place the coated steak in the hot oil. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain and serve: Remove the fried steak from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm with homemade gravy and your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes or green beans.
Notes
- Marinating overnight in buttermilk tenderizes the steak and enhances flavor.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to ensure a crispy crust without sogginess.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature accurately.
- Pat the steak dry after marinating to help the coating stick better.
- Serve with classic cream gravy for an authentic Southern experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
