Mastering the Art of Chicken Fried Steak: A Texas Tradition

Texas - When it comes to classic Texan comfort food, chicken fried steak holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. This dish, characterized by its crispy, golden-brown crust and rich, creamy gravy, has become a staple in Texan cuisine. Here, we explore an authentic recipe for chicken fried steak that will bring the flavors of Texas straight to your kitchen.

Photo byCharles - Dalle 3

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 4 cube steaks (approximately 1/2 inch thick)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon seasoning salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 liter canola oil (for frying)

For the Gravy:

• 3-4 tablespoons oil (reserved from frying the steaks)
• 3-4 tablespoons flour (use some of the seasoned flour from breading the steaks)
• 2 12-ounce cans of evaporated whole milk

Instructions

Preparing the Steak

1. Season and Dredge: Season the cube steaks with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer (such as garlic powder or paprika). Set up a dredging station with seasoned flour in one bowl and a mixture of beaten eggs and milk in another.
2. Breading: Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, ensuring it's well-coated, then dip it in the egg mixture, and dredge it in the flour once again. Allow the breaded steaks to rest for 15-20 minutes to ensure the coating adheres properly​ (Urban Cowgirl)​​ (SmartyPantsKitchen)​.
3. Frying: Heat the canola oil in a large cast-iron skillet to about 350°F. Fry the steaks for 3-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to handle the steaks gently to prevent the breading from falling off. Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil​ (Urban Cowgirl)​​ (Grandbaby Cakes)​.

Making the Gravy

1. Prepare the Pan: After frying the steaks, pour off all but about 2 tablespoons of the frying oil. Keep the remaining oil and browned bits in the skillet.
2. Making the Roux: Over medium heat, add 3-4 tablespoons of the reserved flour to the oil. Whisk continuously until the mixture is golden brown.
3. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens, ensuring no lumps form. Season with salt and pepper to taste​ (Urban Cowgirl)​​ (SmartyPantsKitchen)​​ (Texas Hill Country)​.

Serving Suggestions

Traditionally, chicken fried steak is served with a generous ladle of gravy, accompanied by mashed potatoes and green beans. For a complete Texan meal, consider adding some Texas toast or biscuits on the side. The creamy, rich gravy pairs perfectly with the crispy steak, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that exemplifies Southern comfort food​ (Grandbaby Cakes)​​ (Texas Hill Country)​.

Tips for Success

• Resting the Breading: Allowing the breaded steaks to rest before frying helps the coating adhere better, reducing the risk of it falling off during cooking.
• Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F, adjusting the heat as necessary.
• Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, let it cook a bit longer to thicken up​ (Urban Cowgirl)​​ (SmartyPantsKitchen)​.

Chicken fried steak is more than just a dish; it's a beloved part of Texas heritage. By following these steps and tips, you can recreate this iconic meal at home and enjoy a true taste of Texas comfort.