Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a classic Southern favorite – Country Fried Cube Steak. This hearty and satisfying dish is a staple in Southern cuisine, known for its crispy coating and tender, juicy meat. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or planning a special dinner for family and friends, Country Fried Cube Steak is sure to impress. Join us as we explore the art of making this timeless dish and learn how to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 1 package Cube steak (beef)
- 1 cup Seafood breader
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Vegetable oil
- 1 cup Milk
Instructions:
- Prepare the Steak: Start by seasoning the cube steak with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour and seafood breader. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Dredge the Steak: Dredge each piece of cube steak in the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly on all sides. Shake off any excess flour and set aside.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. You can test if the oil is ready by sprinkling a few drops of water into the skillet – if they sizzle and evaporate immediately, the oil is ready.
- Fry the Steak: Carefully place the coated cube steaks into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Once the steaks are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Double Coating: For an extra crispy coating, you can double coat the cube steak by dipping it in the milk and then the flour mixture again before frying.
- Spice it Up: Add additional seasonings to the flour mixture for extra flavor. Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder are all great options to enhance the taste of the steak.
- Oven-Baked Option: If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the cube steak in the oven instead of frying. Simply coat the steak in the flour mixture, place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Country Fried Cube Steak: Replace the all-purpose flour and seafood breader with a combination of almond flour and crushed pork rinds for a low-carb coating. Use heavy cream instead of milk for dipping the steak, and fry in a keto-friendly oil such as avocado oil or ghee.
Low-Carb Country Fried Cube Steak: Reduce the amount of flour used in the coating or omit it altogether. Instead, use a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese and almond flour for a low-carb alternative. Cook the steak in a non-stick skillet with a minimal amount of oil to keep the carb count low.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: What is cube steak? A: Cube steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized by pounding with a meat mallet or running through a mechanical tenderizer. It is typically used for dishes such as chicken fried steak and country fried steak.
Q: Can I use other types of meat for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use other cuts of meat such as chicken breast or pork chops for a variation of this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the meat.
Country Fried Cube Steak is the epitome of comfort food, offering a satisfying combination of crispy coating and juicy meat that is sure to please the whole family. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this classic dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a taste of the South or looking for a hearty meal to warm you up on a chilly evening, Country Fried Cube Steak is sure to hit the spot. Try out this recipe today and experience the deliciousness of Southern cooking at its finest!
