Hey there, meat lovers! Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Do you ever crave something crispy, juicy, and satisfying? Well, get ready to be amazed because we're about to dive into the world of chicken-fried steak, a dish that's sure to become your new culinary obsession!
You might be thinking, "Chicken-fried steak? Isn't that a bit...strange?" Well, let me tell you, this dish is a classic for a reason! It's a perfect blend of comfort food and undeniable deliciousness. But here's the catch: not everyone knows the secret to making the perfect chicken-fried steak. That's where this article comes in!
Ready to learn how to turn a humble round steak into a culinary masterpiece? Keep reading, because we're about to reveal 3 easy ways to make the best chicken-fried steak you've ever tasted! Trust us, it's worth it!
3 Easy Ways to Make Chicken Fried Steak with Round Steak
Craving a crispy, juicy, and satisfying chicken fried steak but intimidated by the traditional recipe? Don't worry! This classic dish is easier to make than you think, especially when starting with round steak. This versatile cut of meat, known for its affordability and tenderness when cooked properly, makes a fantastic base for crispy, flavorful chicken fried steak.
In this article, we'll explore three straightforward methods for achieving the perfect chicken fried steak using round steak. From simple pan-frying to using a Dutch oven for even browning, we'll guide you through each step, ensuring a delicious and successful meal.
Why Round Steak is Perfect for Chicken Fried Steak
Round steak, also known as top round, bottom round, or eye round, is a lean cut of meat that can be found in most grocery stores. While it's naturally tougher than some other cuts, its tough fibers break down beautifully with tenderizing techniques, resulting in a tender and flavorful chicken fried steak.
Here's why round steak is an ideal choice:
- Affordability: It's generally cheaper compared to more expensive cuts like tenderloin or ribeye.
- Flavorful: It boasts a robust, beefy flavor that complements the crispy breading perfectly.
- Tenderizing: With a bit of preparation, including pounding or marinating, round steak becomes incredibly tender and enjoyable to eat.
3 Easy Ways to Make Chicken Fried Steak with Round Steak
1. Classic Pan-Fried Chicken Fried Steak
This method is perfect for smaller batches and requires minimal equipment.
Here's how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. round steak, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Tenderize the round steak by pounding it gently with a meat mallet or rolling pin until it's about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season the steak with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the breading: Whisk together the flour and bread crumbs. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg.
- Coat the steak: Dip each steak piece in the milk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Then, coat the steak thoroughly in the flour mixture.
- Pan-fry: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded steaks in the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the steaks from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans.
2. Oven-Baked Chicken Fried Steak
This method allows you to cook multiple steaks at once and results in a beautifully even crust.
Here's how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. round steak, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Marinate: Place the round steak in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over it. Add the salt and pepper, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the steak to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare breading: Combine the flour and Parmesan cheese in a shallow dish.
- Coat the steak: Remove the steak from the buttermilk marinade and gently shake off any excess. Dredge each steak piece in the flour mixture, pressing the breading onto the steak to ensure a good coating.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the breaded steaks in a baking dish. Drizzle with vegetable oil, ensuring an even coating.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the steaks are golden brown and cooked through.
3. Dutch Oven Chicken Fried Steak
This method utilizes the heat distribution of a Dutch oven to create an incredibly crispy and flavorful chicken fried steak.
Here's how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. round steak, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Season the steak: Combine the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a shallow dish. Coat the round steak pieces in the flour mixture.
- Prepare the dredge: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Dip each floured steak piece into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Preheat the Dutch oven: Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear and cook: Carefully add the breaded steaks to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Reduce heat and continue cooking: Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking the steaks for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the steaks from the Dutch oven and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Tips for Success:
- Tenderize: Pounding the round steak before breading helps break down the fibers, resulting in a more tender final product.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than frying, resulting in soggy breadcrumbs.
- Use a hot skillet or Dutch oven: Hot oil is essential for achieving a crispy crust.
- Cook to the correct temperature: Your chicken fried steak should reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking can result in dry and tough chicken fried steak.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of steak for chicken fried steak?
- A: While round steak is an excellent choice, you can use other cuts like sirloin or even chuck. However, tenderizing might be required depending on the cut.
Q: What if I don't have buttermilk?
- A: You can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar.
Q: What are some good sides to serve with chicken fried steak?
- A: Classic pairings include mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, cornbread, and coleslaw. Get creative and try new combinations!
Conclusion
Making chicken fried steak with round steak doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following the tips and methods outlined in this article, you can easily achieve a perfectly crispy and flavorful chicken fried steak that will impress your family and friends. Whether you prefer pan-frying, oven-baking, or using a Dutch oven, there's a method that's perfect for you.
Embrace the simplicity and enjoy this classic comfort food!
Call-to-Action: Try one of these easy recipes tonight and let us know your favorite way to make chicken fried steak! Share your creations on social media and tag us!
So there you have it! Three easy ways to make chicken-fried steak with round steak. Each method offers a unique flavor and texture, allowing you to experiment and find your favorite way to enjoy this classic dish. Whether you prefer the crispy, golden-brown coating of the buttermilk-dredged method, the thin, delicate batter of the egg wash method, or the crispy, flavorful crust of the seasoned flour method, you’re sure to impress your taste buds and your guests. Remember, the key to a successful chicken-fried steak is to use a tender round steak and to ensure that the coating is cooked through before serving. Serve your chicken-fried steak with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans, and enjoy a delightful meal.
Furthermore, it’s important to note that you can customize these recipes to your liking. For example, you can add spices to the breading, such as paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder, or you can use different types of flour, such as all-purpose flour or self-rising flour. You can also adjust the cooking time to your preference. If you prefer a more well-done steak, cook it for a longer period of time. If you prefer a more juicy steak, cook it for a shorter period of time. Ultimately, the best way to make chicken-fried steak is the way that you enjoy it the most.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, these simple and effective techniques will guide you in crafting a delicious and satisfying chicken-fried steak. So, grab your round steak, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a taste of Southern comfort food. With a little practice and experimentation, you’ll be a chicken-fried steak master in no time. Bon appétit!
Comments
Post a Comment