Introduction:
Chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and gravy is a major comfort food in the south that has been enjoyed for generations. The dish entails tenderized cube steak breaded, and then deep-fried to perfection and topped with rich creamy gravy. It can be served alongside fluff mashed potatoes making it a satisfyingly hearty meal. This meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions since the chicken fried steak brings warmth and comforts on your table. If you are new to southern delicacies or an old hand, this recipe will make it easy for you to come up with a pleasant dinner which will not be erased from your memory.Ingredients:
For the Chicken-Fried Steak:
4 cube steaks
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste.
Vegetable oil for frying.
For the Mashed Potatoes:
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk.
¼ cups butter.
Salt and pepper, to taste.
For the Gravy:
¼ cup all-purpose flour.
2 cups milk.
Salt and pepper, to taste.
Instructions:
Chicken-Fried Steak:
Mix garlic powder, paprika, salt & pepper into the flour in a shallow bowl.
In another bowl whisk together buttermilk and eggs.
Dip each steak into the flour mixture then dip it in buttermilk mixture before dipping it back into your flour mixture ensuring they are well coated.
Heat vegetable oil about ½ inch deep in a large skillet over medium high heat.
Fry steaks until golden brown on both sides about 3-4 minutes per side.Remove from pan to drain on paper towels.
Mashed Potatoes:
Potatoes should be boiled in salted water for about 15 minutes until they are tender.
Drain and return potatoes to pot; adding milk while mashing until smooth.Season with salt and pepper.
Gravy:
In the same pan that was used to cook steaks, drain most of the 2 tablespoons of oil.
Whisk in flour and fry for 1-2 minutes until it turns light brown in color.
Gradually add milk while whisking continuously as you let it cook till the gravy is thick. Add salt and pepper.
Hints for Success:
Ensure that before frying your steaks, get crispy coating by heating oil enough so it reaches that point. When cooking chicken-fried steaks use meat thermometer to determine when they are cooked at least 145°F (63°C). Use potato ricer or food mill especially if you want silky mashed potatoes without any lumps.
Health Benefits:
Although not very low in calories or fats, you can make healthier versions of chicken fried steak by: Baking instead of frying the steaks Using low-fat milk plus butter substitutes in mashed potatoes together with gravy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 700 Protein: 35g Carbohydrates: 45g Fat: 40g Fiber: 4g Sugar: 6g Variations and Substitutions: Instead of cube steak, use boneless pork chops or chicken breasts. You can also choose to make a dairy-free version by using almond milk or soy milk in the gravy. Also, mashed potatoes can taste better with roasted garlic or cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I utilize an alternative steak?
A: Yes, but it would have to be tender cut such as sirloin or ribeye pounded until it is thin.
Q: Can this dish be prepared earlier?
A: Serve the steaks fresh; however, you may cook the mashed potatoes and gravy ahead of time then reheat them when you’re ready to eat.
Q: How can I make the dish gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free flour for your breading and gravy.
Conclusion:
Chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and gravy is not merely a meal; it represents a reassuring experience that unites individuals. This combination of crispy, tasty meat and smooth mash potatoes topped by a thick sauce creates an ideal blend of tastes and textures. This family classic is bound to become one of your favorite dishes for its warmth and fulfillment in every bite. Whether you eat it together with your loved ones during Thanksgiving or prepare it as a dinner for guests, the chicken-fried steak represents the spirit of traditional American cooking. Use this guideline to prepare your meal while telling love stories to those closest to you because food heals