Frying Chicken Fried Steak: Deep Fryer Method Explored

Chicken fried steak is a Southern favourite that consists of steak fried in the same manner as fried chicken. The meat is coated with a seasoned flour mixture, then deep-fried to crispy perfection. While it is typically shallow-fried, you can also use a deep fryer. This paragraph will explore the process of making chicken fried steak in a deep fryer, as well as provide some tips and tricks for achieving the perfect crispy, juicy steak.

Can you make chicken fried steak in a deep fryer?

How to prepare the steak for frying

Preparing the steak for frying is a crucial step in the cooking process. Here are some detailed instructions on how to prepare your steak for frying, specifically for chicken-fried steak:

Firstly, choose the right cut of meat. Chicken-fried steak typically uses cube steak, which has already been tenderized. You can also use other steak varieties, such as round steak, but ensure they are tenderized and cut thinly, about 1/4-inch thick. If you are not buying pre-tenderized steak, you can use a meat mallet to pound the steak to the desired thickness.

Next, prepare the dredging and buttermilk mixtures. In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if desired). In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, an egg, and hot sauce. The buttermilk mixture will help the flour coating adhere to the steak and provide a delicious flavour.

Now, it's time to dredge the steaks. Start by coating the steaks with the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Then, dip them into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl. Finally, dredge the steaks in the flour mixture once more, pressing down to ensure the flour sticks to the steak. This double-dredging technique will create a crispy, golden-brown coating when fried.

Before frying, allow the steaks to rest for a few minutes. This will help the coating set and ensure the steak is dry, as any moisture can cause oil to splatter when frying.

Finally, heat your oil in a deep fryer or a large pan on the stove. Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable shortening or canola oil, and heat it to around 325°F. You want the oil to be hot and shimmering before carefully lowering the steaks into it.

Now your steaks are ready for frying! Follow the frying instructions for chicken-fried steak, and enjoy your delicious, crispy, and tender creation.

The best oil for deep frying chicken fried steak

Deep frying chicken fried steak is a great way to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a juicy interior. When choosing the right oil for deep frying, there are a few key factors to consider: flavour transfer, smoke point, and the flavour of the oil itself.

You'll want an oil with minimal flavour transfer, a high smoke point for high-heat frying, and a neutral flavour so that the taste of the steak and seasoning can really shine.

Canola Oil

Canola oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavour, making it an excellent choice for frying chicken fried steak. It also contains high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids while being low in saturated fats, making it a healthier option than some other oils. Canola oil is also versatile and can be used for frying fish.

Vegetable Shortening

Vegetable shortening is a popular choice for frying chicken, especially in Southern-style recipes. It is a solid fat that melts as it heats up, and it has a high smoke point, making it ideal for achieving a crispy, golden-brown crust.

Lard

Lard is another traditional option for Southern-style fried chicken recipes. It gives your chicken a rich, savoury flavour and an incredibly crispy crust.

Peanut Oil

Peanut oil has a high smoke point and a nutty flavour, adding a unique taste to fried chicken. It also prevents flavour transfer, making it ideal for establishments serving multiple fried foods. However, peanut oil is less commonly used due to its high price point and potential to cause reactions in individuals with nut allergies.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a healthier option for deep frying, containing high levels of lauric acid and healthy fats. It is also lightly flavoured and odourless, adding a hint of sweetness while preventing flavour transfer.

So, when it comes to choosing the best oil for deep frying chicken fried steak, consider canola oil, vegetable shortening, lard, peanut oil, or coconut oil for their high smoke points and neutral to complementary flavours.

How long to deep fry chicken fried steak

Deep-frying chicken fried steak is a great way to achieve a juicy, tender steak with a crispy coating. The length of time you deep fry your chicken fried steak will depend on the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness.

Firstly, it is important to ensure your oil is heated to the correct temperature. Heat your oil to 325°F, or 340°F, and ensure your steak is as dry as possible before adding to the oil.

For a 1/4" thick steak, fry for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. For a 1/2" thick steak, cook for 1-2 minutes for medium-rare to medium. A 1" steak will take 3-4 minutes, and a thick 1 1/2" steak will need 5-6 minutes.

If you are cooking your steak in a deep skillet, you may need to turn the steak halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.

Making the gravy

Now that you've deep-fried your chicken-fried steak to perfection, it's time to make the gravy. This part is crucial, as the gravy will drench your crispy steak and take it to the next level. Here's a step-by-step guide to making the perfect gravy:

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

After removing the fried steaks from the pan, it's time to start building the flavour foundation for your gravy. Drain most of the oil from the pan, leaving just enough to create your gravy. Depending on the size of your pan and the amount of oil used for frying, you'll want to reserve about 1/4 cup of the oil. This step is important as it utilizes all the delicious flavours left behind from frying your steaks.

Step 2: Add Flour and Cook

With the reserved oil in the pan, whisk in some flour. You'll want to use the remaining flour from your steak coating process. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches a nice golden brown colour. This step is crucial as it cooks out the raw flour taste and adds a depth of flavour to your gravy.

Step 3: Slowly Add Milk

Once your flour mixture has reached the desired colour, it's time to slowly add your liquid. For this step, you'll want to use milk, or a combination of milk and cream, for a richer, creamier gravy. Slowly drizzle in about 2 to 2 1/2 cups of milk, whisking constantly as you go. This step is important to ensure your gravy is smooth and free of lumps.

Step 4: Bring to a Simmer

Continue whisking your gravy as you bring it to a gentle simmer. This will help thicken your gravy and ensure it reaches the perfect consistency. Depending on the heat source and the amount of gravy, this process should take around 5 to 7 minutes. If your gravy starts to thicken too much, you can always thin it out by adding a little more milk.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Once your gravy has reached the desired thickness, it's time to season it to perfection. Taste your gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Don't be shy with the pepper, as it will enhance the flavour of the gravy. Some recipes also suggest adding a dash of hot sauce or Tabasco sauce to give it a little kick.

Step 6: Serve Over Steaks

Now that your gravy is ready, it's time to serve it over your chicken-fried steaks. Pour the creamy, delicious gravy over the steaks, ensuring each one is generously coated. This gravy will take your steaks to the next level, adding moisture and flavour to every bite.

Feel free to serve your chicken-fried steak and gravy with a side of mashed potatoes and your favourite green vegetables for a true Southern comfort food experience. Enjoy!

What to serve with chicken fried steak

Chicken fried steak is a classic Southern comfort food. It is typically served with creamy white gravy or brown gravy, topped with black pepper, and traditional Southern sides. Here are some mouthwatering side dishes that will perfectly complement the rich, savoury flavours of the chicken fried steak:

Vegetables and Sides

• Collard greens– a traditional Southern side dish that adds a refreshing crunch to your meal.
• Green beans– a classic side that pairs well with almost any main dish. Try them with a creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onions.
• Southern creamed corn– a hearty and sweet option.
• Maple-roasted carrots– a sweet and buttery option to balance the savoury steak.
• Mashed potatoes– a classic side dish that can be elevated with cheddar cheese and tangy chives, or loaded with bacon, sour cream, and garlic.
• Broccoli Cheese Casserole– a fresh option with onions, garlic, and cheddar in a tasty cream sauce, topped with a buttery cracker crumb topping.
• Roasted or crispy fried potatoes– a hearty option to accompany the steak.
• Squash casserole with stuffing– a unique and flavourful option.
• Fried green tomatoes– a classic Southern dish with tangy and crispy slices.
• Southern mac and cheese– a comforting and indulgent option, especially when made with bacon in a slow cooker.
• Southern Coleslaw– a tangy and refreshing side dish to balance the rich steak.

Bread-Based Sides

• Biscuits– easy homemade biscuits with buttermilk that can be served as a comforting side.
• Honey-butter biscuits– a sweet and indulgent option.
• Cheesy garlic bread– a warm and comforting side that everyone will love.
• Cornbread– a slightly sweet and buttery option that pairs well with the steak. Try it with cheddar bacon jalapeño cornbread for an extra kick.
• Potato rolls– a soft and fluffy option to soak up the gravy.

Desserts

• Pineapple upside-down cake– a classic and sweet option to end the meal.
• Red velvet poke cake– a rich and indulgent dessert.
• Vintage buttermilk cake– a traditional Southern cake.
• Southern buttermilk pie– a comforting and classic dessert.
• Southern fried apples– a tasty and unique dessert option.

Frequently asked questions