Hey Friends!
Picture this: a crispy, golden-brown steak, fried to perfection, nestled between two fluffy buns, topped with creamy gravy and fresh veggies. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, today, I’m turning that dream into reality with my ultimate Chicken-Fried Steak Sandwich recipe!
Imagine biting into that crunchy crust, feeling the tender and juicy steak inside, the smooth, rich gravy melting in your mouth, and the fresh crunch of lettuce and tomatoes.
This sandwich is not just a meal; it’s an experience, a culinary journey that satisfies all your senses. The aroma of the frying steak, the sizzle in the pan, the vibrant colors of the fresh ingredients, and the explosion of flavors – this sandwich has it all!
Whether you’re planning a weekend treat, looking to impress your friends at a gathering, or just craving something indulgent and comforting, this Chicken-Fried Steak Sandwich is your go-to recipe. Let’s dive in and create some magic in the kitchen!
Chicken-Fried Steak Sandwich Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Paper towels
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 cube steaks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying
- 4 sandwich buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Pickles optional
For the Gravy
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Station: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Steaks: Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure each steak is well-coated.
- Fry the Steaks: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Make the Gravy: Melt the butter over medium heat (You can reuse the same skillet). Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the sandwich buns. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun, add a fried steak, spoon over some gravy, and top with sliced tomatoes and pickles if using. Cover with the top half of the bun.Ultimately, the assembly and presentation of your chicken-fried steak sandwich can be tailored to your preferences, making each creation uniquely satisfying. Whether you stick to traditional accompaniments or venture into bold, innovative variations, the essence lies in the delightful combination of textures and flavors that make this sandwich an enduring favorite.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the sandwiches hot and enjoy the deliciousness!
Notes
Did you know?
- Chicken-Fried Steak is a classic southern dish; despite its name, it’s made with beef.
Contrary to what the name might suggest, the term “chicken-fried” refers to the cooking method rather than the type of meat used. Essentially, a beef cutlet is dredged in seasoned flour, dipped in a milk or egg wash, and then coated again with flour before being fried to a golden crisp. This method of preparation is reminiscent of how fried chicken is made, hence the moniker “chicken-fried.” - It was originally created to mimic fried chicken, using inexpensive cuts of beef.
Due to its rich, comforting flavors, the Chicken-Fried Steak Sandwich has earned a beloved spot in American comfort food cuisine. - This dish is a staple in many diners across the Southern United States.
While the critical components of this dish remain fairly consistent, regional variations may introduce different spices or additional toppings to cater to local tastes. The essential qualities— a breaded, fried beef cutlet served in a sandwich format— however, remain universal.
Recommended Pairing Drink:
Pair this sandwich with a cold, refreshing glass of iced tea or a light beer.
Recommended Pairing Dish:
For sides, consider classic coleslaw or crispy fries to complement the savory richness of the sandwich.
Useful Tips:
Need some more help? Here are our FAQs:
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, but cube steak is recommended for its tenderness and ease of cooking.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Yes, you can: any high-heat oil like canola or peanut oil works well.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Vegetarians might replace the cube steak with a thick slice of seitan or a breaded vegetable patty, while maintaining the rest of the ingredients. Such modifications allow everyone to enjoy a rendition of this delightful sandwich while catering to diverse dietary needs.
How do I Properly Bread the Steak?
Breading and frying the steak is one of the pivotal steps in crafting an exemplary chicken-fried steak sandwich.
To achieve a perfectly crispy exterior while ensuring the steak remains tender, consider the following steps and tips.
Firstly, begin by preparing your breading stations. You’ll want three distinct bowls: one for seasoned flour, one for a buttermilk and egg wash, and another for the final dredge of seasoned flour.
For the seasoned flour, combine all-purpose flour with generous amounts of salt and pepper.
Adding other spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder can enhance the flavor. In the second bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk until well combined, ensuring the mixture is smooth and cohesive.
Once your stations are ready, it’s time to bread the steaks. Start by patting the steaks dry to remove any excess moisture, which helps the breading adhere better.
Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, ensuring it is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour before dipping the steak into the buttermilk and egg wash. Let any extra liquid drip off to avoid a too-thick coating. Finally, dredge the steak in the seasoned flour again, pressing lightly to ensure a thorough and even coating.
How to I properly fry these steaks?
With the breading complete, the next step is frying.
When it comes to frying, a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, is ideal. These oils ensure a crispy exterior without imparting any undesired flavors.
Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to a temperature of 350°F (175°C). It’s important to use a thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature, as this prevents the steaks from becoming greasy or undercooked.
Carefully place the breaded steaks into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking.
Fry the steaks for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn a rich golden brown.
Use tongs to handle the steaks gently, making sure not to knock off any of the breading. Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the fried steak and gravy separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I reheat the sandwiches?
Yes, reheat the steak in the oven to maintain its crispiness.
Friends, it’s time to treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food experience with this Chicken-Fried Steak Sandwich!
Give it a try and let your taste buds revel in the deliciousness.
Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked.
Happy cooking!
