Description
Country Fried Steak is a classic Southern comfort dish featuring tenderized beef round steak, breaded and fried to a crispy golden brown, then topped with a rich and creamy gravy made from pan drippings, chicken broth, and heavy cream. This hearty meal is perfect for a satisfying family dinner and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or green beans.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1.5 lbs beef round steak
Breading and Marinade
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Pinch of salt
Cooking
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Gravy
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Tenderize the Steak: Pound the beef round steak to about half an inch thickness to ensure even cooking and tender texture.
- Marinate: Soak the tenderized steak in a mixture of buttermilk, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper for at least one hour. This helps to tenderize the meat further and adds flavor.
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up two bowls; one with seasoned all-purpose flour mixed with black pepper, and another with whisked eggs.
- Bread the Steak: Dip each marinated steak first into the egg wash, making sure it is fully coated, then dredge in the seasoned flour until thoroughly covered.
- Fry the Steak: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until hot. Fry each steak for approximately three minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Make the Gravy: Using the leftover oil and flour in the skillet, stir to form a roux until golden. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the gravy thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Serve: Plate the fried steaks while hot, and generously spoon the creamy gravy over the top. Enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra tenderness, marinate the steak overnight in the buttermilk mixture.
- Use a splatter guard to avoid hot oil splattering during frying.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to get a crispy crust without absorbing too much oil.
- The leftover oil and flour from frying are perfect for making the gravy to capture all the flavors.
- This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple side salad.