Ingredients
Scale
Beef
- 4 tenderized cube steaks (about 1/4 inch thick)
Dredging Mixture
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Wet Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup buttermilk or milk (or plant-based milk for dairy-free)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil or canola oil (enough for frying, about 1 inch deep)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Season the cube steaks with salt and black pepper on both sides. If they are not pre-tenderized, gently pound them with a meat mallet until about 1/4 inch thick for even cooking and tenderness.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in buttermilk or milk. These mixtures will help create the crispy coating.
- Bread the Steak: Dip each steak first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg and milk mixture, then dredge it again in the flour mixture for a double coating that ensures a crispy crust.
- Fry the Steaks: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated steaks into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the steaks from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately to enjoy the best flavor and crunch.
Notes
- Use cube steak for the best texture and even cooking.
- Double dredging helps keep the crust crispy even after frying.
- Maintain oil temperature around 350°F to avoid greasy coating.
- Drain steaks on paper towels briefly, but avoid making them soggy.
- Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding, which ensures even cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free flour is used)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg
Keywords: chicken fried steak, southern recipe, cube steak, crispy beef, fried steak, quick dinner, gluten-free chicken fried steak