Get Ready for the Ultimate Comfort Food: Crispy Steak Gravy
There’s nothing quite like a plate of Crispy Steak Gravy to warm your soul. This dish is a true Southern classic, and it’s been a staple in my family for generations. Whenever I make this, it reminds me of lazy Sunday afternoons with my grandmother, who taught me her secret to the perfect crispy coating and rich, creamy gravy. Let’s dive into why this recipe is so special and how you can make it at home.
A Little History and Background
Chicken Fried Steak, or as we call it, Crispy Steak Gravy, has its roots in the American South. It’s a dish that combines the best of both worlds: the tender, juicy steak and the crispy, golden-brown breading, all smothered in a luscious, homemade gravy. The name might confuse some, but there’s no chicken involved—just a clever way to describe the preparation method. Over the years, this dish has evolved, but the heart of it remains the same: a comforting, hearty meal that brings people together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The flavors in this Crispy Steak Gravy are simply irresistible. The combination of the seasoned breading, the perfectly cooked steak, and the rich, creamy gravy is a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for those who aren’t expert cooks. The simplicity and the deliciousness make it a winner in any household.
Perfect Occasions to Prepare This Recipe
This Crispy Steak Gravy is perfect for a cozy family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or even a potluck. It’s one of those dishes that always gets rave reviews and leaves everyone asking for the recipe. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a special celebration, this comfort food is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 4 beef cube steaks
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups whole milk for gravy
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour for gravy
- Salt and pepper to taste for gravy
Substitution Options
- Beef Cube Steaks: You can use thin-cut round steaks or even pork cutlets if you prefer.
- Milk: For a dairy-free option, use almond milk or oat milk.
- Vegetable Oil: Any neutral-flavored oil like canola or sunflower oil works well.
Preparation Section
Step 1: Prepare the Breading Mixture
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. This mixture will give your steak a burst of flavor and a nice, crispy texture.
Step 2: Make the Egg Wash
In another dish, whisk together the eggs and 1/2 cup of milk. This egg wash will help the breading adhere to the steak, giving it that perfect, golden crust.
Step 3: Dredge the Steaks
Dredge each cube steak in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Then, dip the steak in the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat the steak again in the flour mixture. This triple-coating technique ensures a thick, crispy breading.
Step 4: Fry the Steaks
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. The sizzling sound and the aroma of the cooking steak will make your mouth water. Once done, remove the steaks and set them aside on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Gravy
Drain most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the remaining oil and whisk together, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden. Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The rich, creamy gravy is the perfect complement to the crispy steak.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Pour the hot, creamy gravy over the crispy steaks and serve immediately. The combination of the crispy, seasoned breading and the rich, smooth gravy is absolutely divine. Your family and friends will love it!
Chef’s Tip
To enhance the flavor of the gravy, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This little twist will give your gravy an extra kick and make it even more delicious.
Timing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Chef’s Secret
One of my favorite secrets is to let the dredged steaks rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the breading adhere better and results in a crispier, more flavorful crust.
Extra Info
Did you know that the term “chicken fried” comes from the method of preparing the steak, which is similar to how you would fry chicken? The breading and frying process gives the steak a crispy, golden exterior, just like fried chicken.
Necessary Equipment
- Large skillet
- Shallow dishes for breading and egg wash
- Whisk
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage
If you have leftovers, store the Crispy Steak Gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the steaks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The gravy can be gently reheated on the stovetop, adding a little milk if it thickens too much. For the best texture, avoid microwaving the steaks, as it can make the breading soggy.
Tips and Advice
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the steaks. A good test is to sprinkle a bit of flour into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Fry the steaks in batches if necessary to ensure they cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture.
- For a smoother gravy, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving. This removes any lumps and makes the gravy silky smooth.
Presentation Tips
- Serve the Crispy Steak Gravy on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes and a side of steamed green beans or roasted carrots.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Add a slice of butter to the top of the steak just before pouring the gravy for an extra-rich flavor.
Healthier Alternative Recipes
- Baked Chicken Fried Steak: Instead of frying, bake the breaded steaks in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This reduces the amount of oil used and still gives you a crispy, delicious result.
- Air-Fried Chicken Fried Steak: Use an air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior without the need for deep-frying. Spray the breaded steaks with a little oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Grilled Chicken Fried Steak: Grill the breaded steaks on a preheated grill for 4-5 minutes per side. This method adds a smoky flavor and keeps the breading nice and crispy.
- Gluten-Free Chicken Fried Steak: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for the breading. Follow the same steps, and you’ll have a delicious, gluten-free version of this classic dish.
- Dairy-Free Chicken Fried Steak: Substitute the milk in the egg wash and gravy with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or oat milk. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish, regardless of dietary restrictions.
- Low-Carb Chicken Fried Steak: Use a low-carb breading like almond flour or coconut flour for the coating. This keeps the carbs low while still delivering a crispy, satisfying texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Not Seasoning the Flour Mixture Well
One common mistake is not seasoning the flour mixture enough. The spices in the flour mixture are key to the overall flavor of the dish. Make sure to mix the spices thoroughly and taste the mixture to ensure it’s well-seasoned. This will give your Crispy Steak Gravy a robust, delicious flavor.
Mistake 2: Using Cold Eggs for the Egg Wash
Using cold eggs for the egg wash can make the breading process more difficult. Room-temperature eggs mix better with the milk and adhere more easily to the steak. To quickly bring eggs to room temperature, place them in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes before using.
Mistake 3: Not Letting the Gravy Thicken Properly
Patience is key when making the gravy. If you don’t let it thicken properly, it will be too thin and watery. Stir the gravy continuously and let it simmer for a few minutes until it reaches the desired consistency. This will give you a rich, creamy gravy that complements the crispy steak perfectly.
Mistake 4: Overcrowding the Skillet
Overcrowding the skillet can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy exterior. Fry the steaks in batches if needed, and make sure there’s enough space between them. This will ensure that each steak gets the right amount of heat and achieves that perfect, golden-brown crust.
Mistake 5: Not Resting the Steaks Before Frying
Resting the dredged steaks for a few minutes before frying is a crucial step. This allows the breading to adhere better and results in a crispier, more flavorful crust. Don’t skip this step, as it can make a big difference in the final texture of your Crispy Steak Gravy.
FAQ
What is the origin of Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken Fried Steak, also known as Crispy Steak Gravy, originated in the American South. It’s a dish that combines the techniques of frying chicken with the use of beef, resulting in a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a tender, juicy interior. The name comes from the method of preparation, which is similar to how you would fry chicken.
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of meat for this recipe. Thin-cut round steaks or even pork cutlets work well. Just make sure the meat is of a similar thickness to ensure even cooking. The key is to get a good, crispy breading and a tender, juicy interior.
How do I make the gravy thicker?
If your gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a slurry of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water. Stir this into the gravy and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Alternatively, you can let the gravy simmer for a longer time, stirring frequently, to reduce and thicken naturally.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can use a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or oat milk for the egg wash and the gravy. This will keep the dish creamy and delicious without any dairy. Just make sure to check the labels to ensure the products are dairy-free.
How do I reheat leftover Chicken Fried Steak?
To reheat leftover Crispy Steak Gravy, place the steaks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The gravy can be gently reheated on the stovetop, adding a little milk if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving the steaks, as it can make the breading soggy.
What sides go well with Chicken Fried Steak?
Traditional sides for Crispy Steak Gravy include creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, and roasted carrots. You can also serve it with a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad for a refreshing touch. These sides complement the rich, savory flavors of the steak and gravy perfectly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best to prepare Crispy Steak Gravy just before serving, you can do some prep work in advance. You can bread the steaks and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply fry the steaks and make the gravy. This saves time and makes the process easier.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Yes, you can make a healthier version of Crispy Steak Gravy by baking or air-frying the steaks instead of deep-frying. You can also use a low-carb breading like almond flour or coconut flour. Additionally, using a dairy-free milk alternative and reducing the amount of oil can make the dish lighter and more nutritious.
How do I prevent the breading from falling off the steak?
To prevent the breading from falling off, make sure the steaks are dry before dredging them. Also, press the breading firmly onto the steak to help it adhere. Letting the breaded steaks rest for a few minutes before frying also helps the breading stay in place. Finally, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the steaks to the skillet.
Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Yes, you can use any neutral-flavored oil for frying, such as canola oil, sunflower oil, or even peanut oil. The key is to use an oil with a high smoke point, as this will prevent the oil from burning and give you a clean, crispy result. Just make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the steaks.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a plate of Crispy Steak Gravy. It’s a dish that brings people together, warms the heart, and satisfies the soul. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, get your ingredients ready, and let’s create a memorable meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
Crispy Steak Gravy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In another dish, whisk together the eggs and 1/2 cup of milk to make the egg wash.
- Dredge each cube steak in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg wash, and coat again in the flour mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the steaks and drain excess oil on a paper towel.
- In the skillet, whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour with the remaining oil, then gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk and season with salt and pepper to taste until the gravy thickens.
- Pour the hot gravy over the crispy steaks and serve immediately.