Introduction
Chicken Fried Steak is a quintessential Southern comfort food that evokes warmth and nostalgia with every bite. Renowned for its crispy coating and tender meat, this dish has earned a special place at the tables of many, particularly at Cracker Barrel, where it is celebrated for its hearty flavors and comforting appeal. The very mention of Chicken Fried Steak conjures memories of family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and the simple joy of sharing a meal that brings everyone together.
The intention behind this recipe is to recreate the beloved Chicken Fried Steak experience right in your own kitchen. By following this detailed guide, you can achieve the same mouthwatering flavors and satisfying textures that make this dish a standout at Cracker Barrel. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this homemade version will have everyone raving and reminiscing about their favorite dining experiences.
Understanding Chicken Fried Steak
The origins of Chicken Fried Steak trace back to the Southern United States, where it has become a staple comfort food. It is believed that the dish was inspired by German immigrants who brought their tradition of breading and frying meats to America. The process involves taking a cut of beef, tenderizing it, and then coating it in a seasoned breading before frying it to golden perfection. Over the years, Chicken Fried Steak has evolved into a beloved dish that embodies the essence of Southern cooking.
Culturally, Chicken Fried Steak has become a symbol of Southern hospitality, often served with sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, or biscuits. Its appeal lies not only in its taste but also in the way it brings people together, making it a popular choice for family gatherings and potlucks. Variations of the dish can be found throughout the South, with each region adding its unique twist—some might use different cuts of beef, while others may experiment with spices or sauces.
The defining characteristics of Chicken Fried Steak include its crispy, golden-brown breading, tender meat, and a rich, creamy gravy that ties everything together. Traditional preparation typically involves using cube steaks, which are pounded and tenderized, making them perfect for frying. The dish is often served hot, with gravy drizzled generously over the top, inviting diners to dig in and savor the comforting flavors.
Ingredients Breakdown
Cube Steaks
The primary ingredient in Chicken Fried Steak is cube steak, a cut of beef that has been tenderized by pounding it with a meat mallet. This process creates small indentations in the meat, giving it a unique texture that allows it to absorb flavors beautifully. Cube steaks are typically made from tougher cuts of beef, such as round or chuck, making them an economical choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
If you find yourself unable to locate cube steaks at your local grocery store, there are several substitutes you can consider. For a similar texture, you might opt for sirloin or flank steak, though these cuts will require slightly different cooking times. Additionally, you could use pork chops or chicken breasts for a variation on the traditional recipe, although this would result in a different flavor profile.
Breading Mixture
The breading mixture is what gives Chicken Fried Steak its signature crunch and flavor. The essential components of this mixture include:
– Flour: The base of the breading, providing structure and a crispy coating when fried.
– Baking Powder: Helps to create a light, airy texture in the breading, ensuring it doesn’t become too dense.
– Garlic Powder: Adds a depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the breading.
– Onion Powder: Complements the garlic powder, bringing a savory element to the mix.
– Paprika: Introduces a subtle smokiness and vibrant color to the breading.
– Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the flavor profile and balance the dish.
Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in creating the perfect breading, ensuring that the Chicken Fried Steak is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its golden-brown crust.
Sausage Gravy Components
No Chicken Fried Steak is complete without its rich, creamy sausage gravy. This essential component enhances the dish, providing a luscious sauce that complements the crispy steak. The primary ingredients for the sausage gravy include:
– Breakfast Sausage: The star of the gravy, breakfast sausage adds a savory, hearty flavor. You can use either spicy or mild sausage, depending on your preference.
– Flour: Used to thicken the gravy, flour helps to create a creamy consistency that clings to the steak.
– Milk: Adds richness and creaminess to the gravy, balancing the flavors of the sausage.
– Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these ingredients enhance the overall taste of the gravy.
The combination of these ingredients results in a gravy that is not only flavorful but also comforting, making it the perfect accompaniment to your Chicken Fried Steak.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have a solid understanding of the ingredients and their roles in this recipe, it’s time to dive into the preparation of Chicken Fried Steak. Follow these comprehensive steps to ensure a successful and delicious outcome.
Preparing the Steaks
1. Tenderize the Cube Steaks: Start by placing your cube steaks between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet, pound the steaks gently until they are about half an inch thick. This will ensure that they cook evenly and remain tender.
2. Season the Steaks: Once tenderized, season both sides of the cube steaks generously with salt and black pepper. This initial seasoning is essential for enhancing the flavor of the meat before it’s breaded.
3. Prepare the Breading Station: Set up a breading station by placing three shallow dishes in a line. In the first dish, add the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper—mix well. In the second dish, crack a couple of eggs and whisk them until smooth. In the third dish, add additional flour for the final coating.
4. Bread the Steaks: Take each seasoned cube steak and dip it first into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s coated well. Shake off any excess flour before transferring the steak to the egg wash. Make sure to coat both sides of the steak in the egg before moving it to the third dish, where it will receive a final dusting of flour. Press the flour onto the steak gently to ensure it adheres well.
5. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about half an inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is ready, sprinkle a small amount of flour into the oil; if it sizzles, the oil is hot enough for frying.
6. Fry the Steaks: Carefully place the breaded cube steaks into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry each steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn a golden brown color. Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
With these steps, you are well on your way to creating a delicious homemade version of Cracker Barrel’s Chicken Fried Steak. The next part of this recipe will guide you through making the rich sausage gravy that will bring your dish together beautifully. Stay tuned for more detailed instructions on how to finish this beloved Southern classic!
Seasoning the Meat
To create the perfect copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak, the seasoning of the meat is paramount. Begin by using a combination of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of cayenne for a bit of heat. This blend not only enhances the flavor of the beef but also creates a delectable crust when fried.
1. Season Generously: Take your cube steaks and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial as it helps the seasoning adhere better. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly on both sides of each steak, ensuring every inch is covered. Let the seasoned steaks sit for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
Setting Up the Breading Station
An efficient workspace is essential for a smooth cooking process, especially when breading multiple steaks. Here’s how to set up your breading station effectively:
1. Organize Your Space: Clear a large area on your countertop or kitchen island. You will need three shallow dishes: one for seasoned flour, one for the egg wash, and one for the breadcrumbs or panko.
2. Prepare the Dishes:
– First Dish (Flour): In the first shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with a bit of salt and pepper. This dry mixture will create the initial coating that forms the base for the crispy breading.
– Second Dish (Egg Wash): In the second dish, beat 2 large eggs with a splash of milk or buttermilk. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the meat.
– Third Dish (Breadcrumbs): In the final shallow dish, place 1 cup of breadcrumbs or panko. If desired, you can add a sprinkle of additional seasoning to these crumbs for extra flavor.
3. Positioning: Arrange the dishes in a line, from left to right: seasoned flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs. This setup will allow you to efficiently coat each steak without making a mess or losing track of the process.
The Breading Process
The three-step breading method is crucial for achieving the signature flavor and texture of Chicken Fried Steak. Here’s how to do it:
1. Dredge in Flour: Begin by taking a seasoned steak and dredging it in the flour mixture. Make sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour—this helps prevent clumping and ensures a crispier texture.
2. Dip in Egg Wash: Next, dip the floured steak into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip back into the dish. The egg wash provides moisture that helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the meat.
3. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Finally, press the steak into the breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating on both sides. For an extra-crispy texture, you can double-dip by repeating the egg wash and breadcrumb steps. Place each coated steak on a plate and let them rest for a few minutes before frying. This resting period allows the breading to set, which helps it stay intact during frying.
Frying the Steaks
Frying is where the magic happens, and achieving that perfect golden brown color is essential. Follow these tips to fry your Chicken Fried Steaks successfully:
1. Use the Right Oil: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, sprinkle a few breadcrumbs into the pan; if they sizzle immediately, the oil is hot enough.
2. Fry in Batches: To avoid overcrowding the pan, fry the steaks in batches. This ensures even cooking and prevents the temperature of the oil from dropping too low. Cook each steak for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Avoid Common Mistakes:
– Do Not Flip Too Early: Resist the temptation to flip the steaks too soon. Let them cook undisturbed until a golden crust forms, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes.
– Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature. If it gets too hot, it can burn the breading before the meat is cooked through. If it’s too low, the steaks may absorb too much oil and become greasy.
4. Drain and Rest: Once the steaks are done, use a slotted spatula to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes to maintain their crispy texture.
Making the Sausage Gravy
Now that your Chicken Fried Steaks are fried to perfection, it’s time to whip up the rich and creamy sausage gravy that makes this dish a true comfort food classic.
1. Start with the Sausage: In the same skillet used for frying the steaks, remove excess oil, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the pan. Add 1 pound of breakfast sausage (pork or turkey) and cook over medium heat, breaking it up with a spatula until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the Roux: Once the sausage is browned, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Stir to combine and cook for about 2 minutes. This process creates a roux, which will thicken the gravy.
3. Pour in Milk: Gradually pour in 2-3 cups of milk (adjust based on desired thickness), whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook the gravy, stirring often, until it thickens to your preferred consistency. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
4. Season the Gravy: Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. For added flavor, you can also incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or even a splash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serving your Chicken Fried Steak with Sausage Gravy is where you can really get creative. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
1. Plate It Up: Spoon the sausage gravy generously over each Chicken Fried Steak. Serve it on a warm plate to keep everything nice and toasty.
2. Perfect Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides. Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, which can also be topped with gravy, or buttery corn on the cob. Green beans sautéed with garlic and seasoning offer a fresh, vibrant contrast. For a lighter option, a simple side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
3. Breakfast Twist: Don’t hesitate to serve this dish for breakfast! Pair it with scrambled eggs and biscuits for a hearty morning feast that will delight your family and guests.
Nutritional Information
While Chicken Fried Steak with Sausage Gravy is undoubtedly a comfort food treat, it’s good to be aware of its nutritional aspects. Per serving (one steak with gravy), you can expect approximately:
– Calories: 600-800 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used
– Protein: 30-40 grams
– Fat: 40-50 grams
– Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
While this dish is indulgent, it can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Consider pairing it with healthy sides like steamed vegetables or a salad to enhance your meal’s nutritional profile.
Conclusion
Making a homemade version of Cracker Barrel’s Chicken Fried Steak is a gratifying experience that brings the flavors of Southern cooking right to your kitchen. The satisfaction of crafting this dish from scratch is unmatched, especially when you see the delight on your family and friends’ faces as they savor each bite. This comforting meal not only nourishes the body but also creates lasting memories around the dinner table.
We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Whether you enjoy it for dinner or breakfast, the joy of sharing a hearty meal made with love is what cooking is all about. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and relish in the deliciousness of your very own Chicken Fried Steak with Sausage Gravy. Happy cooking!
