Country-Fried Steak
Country-Fried Steak offers a crispy, golden-brown coating with tender, juicy meat inside. This classic Southern comfort dish pairs well with mashed potatoes and gravy, making it perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings where bold flavors and satisfying textures shine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the steaks.
- Mix flour with salt and pepper.
- Coat each steak with the flour mixture.
- Heat shortening in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add steaks and fry on both sides until browned and meat juices run clear.
- Remove steaks from the skillet.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best results, let the coated steaks rest for about 10 minutes before frying to help the crust adhere better. If you want a bit more flavor, consider adding garlic powder or paprika to the flour mixture. For a lighter option, you can substitute half of the flour with cornmeal. If you don't have shortening, vegetable oil can work as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your country-fried steak with creamy gravy drizzled on top for an authentic experience. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes and a side of Garlic And Dill Pickles for a balanced meal. For a fresh touch, consider a side of Super Waldorf Salad to complement the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover country-fried steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the steaks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, which helps maintain the crispy coating. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country-Fried Steak contains roughly 1102 calories, with 6g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 101g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 486mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other cuts of meat for country-fried steak?
Yes, while cubed steak is traditional, you can use other cuts like chicken breast or pork loin. Just ensure they are pounded thin to mimic the texture of cubed steak, allowing for even cooking and tenderness.
What should I serve with country-fried steak?
Country-fried steak is versatile; it pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, or baked beans. For a refreshing contrast, try serving it with a light salad or some roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
How can I make the coating extra crispy?
To achieve an extra crispy coating, double-dip the steaks. After the first coating of flour, dip them in beaten egg, then coat again with the flour mixture. This creates a thicker crust that fries up beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).