Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a Southern classic that’s sure to become a family favorite: Chicken Fried Steak with Red Chile Gravy! This hearty dish combines tender beef cube steaks, perfectly breaded and fried to golden perfection, all smothered in a rich and spicy red chile gravy. Whether you’re hosting a Sunday brunch or just craving comfort food, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. Dive into the world of Southern cuisine and discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 beef cube steaks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for gravy)
- 2 cups milk (for gravy)
- 1 tbsp red chile powder (for gravy)
Instructions
- Prepare the steaks by patting them dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy coating.
- In a shallow dish, mix 1 cup flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the first coating mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk to create a wet dredging mixture.
- Dredge each cube steak first in the seasoned flour, then dip into the egg-buttermilk mixture, and then coat again in the flour mixture, ensuring a thick, even coating.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F.
- Carefully place the coated steaks into the hot oil, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove steaks and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to keep the coating crisp.
- For the gravy, use the same skillet with remaining oil and flour drippings. Sprinkle 1/4 cup flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, and add red chile powder for a spicy kick.
- Simmer the gravy for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to desired consistency, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Pour the red chile gravy over the chicken fried steaks and serve immediately, garnishing with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: Ensure your cube steaks are patted dry with paper towels before coating them. This step helps the breading adhere better and results in a crispier texture.
- Double Dredging: For an extra crunchy coating, don’t skip the double dredging process. Coating the steaks in seasoned flour, then dipping in the egg-buttermilk mixture, and finishing with another flour coating creates a thick, delicious crust.
- Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature; it should be around 350°F. This ensures the steaks fry evenly and develop that perfect golden brown color without becoming greasy.
- Make a Roux: When preparing the gravy, whisk the flour continuously after adding it to the oil drippings. This will help you achieve a smooth roux, which is essential for a lump-free gravy.
- Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Taste your gravy as it simmers and adjust the salt, pepper, and red chile powder to your preference for the perfect spicy kick.
- Serving Suggestion: Garnish your Chicken Fried Steak with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness that will elevate your dish's presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 150mg
