If you're trying to watch your calories, you might want to think twice before digging into a plate of country style steak. With a whopping 589 calories in one serving, it's one of the highest calorie meals you can opt for. But fear not, there are ways to enjoy this delicious dish in moderation without sacrificing taste or your health goals.

Country style steak is a classic Southern dish made with tenderized round steak that's been coated in flour and pan-fried to perfection. It's typically served smothered in creamy gravy and paired with comforting sides like mashed potatoes and green beans.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional breakdown of country style steak, its high-calorie content, ingredients, and cooking method. We'll also share healthy alternatives and tips for balancing your diet when indulging in this dish.

A Breakdown of the Calories in a Plate of Country Style Steak

One plate of country style steak contains 589 calories, which is about 30% of the recommended daily calorie intake for the average adult. The majority of the calories come from fat and protein, with very little fiber or carbohydrates. The exact calorie count of country style steak can vary depending on the size of the serving and the type of gravy used. Additionally, the nutritional value of the dish can be impacted by the ingredients and cooking method. If you're trying to maintain a healthy weight or lose weight, it's important to be mindful of your calorie intake and to enjoy country style steak in moderation.

The Nutritional Content of Country Style Steak

While country style steak is high in calories, it also contains important nutrients like iron and protein. One serving of country style steak contains about 40 grams of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscles. However, the dish is also high in saturated fat and sodium, which can increase your risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. The creamy gravy used to smother the steak is also high in calories, fat, and sodium. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider opting for a leaner cut of steak and making a lighter gravy with low-fat milk and herbs.

What Makes Country Style Steak a High-Calorie Meal?

There are several factors that contribute to the high-calorie count of country style steak. First, the steak itself is often a fattier cut like round or chuck, which increases the calorie and fat content. The coating on the steak is typically made with all-purpose flour, which adds additional carbohydrates and calories to the dish. The creamy gravy used to smother the steak is also high in calories, fat, and sodium. When preparing country style steak, it's important to be mindful of the ingredients and cooking method to keep the calorie count in check. Consider using a leaner cut of steak and a lighter gravy with skim milk and herbs.

The Ingredients and Cooking Method of Country Style Steak

The main ingredients in country style steak are round steak, all-purpose flour, butter or oil, and gravy. The steak is typically tenderized with a meat mallet or fork to make it more tender. The steak is then coated in flour and pan-fried in butter or oil until golden brown. The creamy gravy is then made by mixing flour, milk or heavy cream, and seasonings in a separate pan. While this classic recipe is delicious, it's also high in calories, fat, and sodium. Consider using a leaner cut of steak and making a lighter gravy with low-fat milk and herbs to create a healthier version.

Healthy Alternatives to Country Style Steak

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional country style steak, consider using a leaner cut of steak like sirloin or flank steak. You can also make a lighter gravy using low-fat milk or almond milk and fresh herbs. Alternatively, you can try swapping out the steak altogether for a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. These options are lower in calories and fat, while still providing plenty of protein and flavor. Ultimately, the key to making a healthy version of country style steak is to be mindful of your ingredients and cooking methods, and to enjoy in moderation.

How to Balance Your Diet When Eating Country Style Steak

If you're planning to indulge in country style steak, there are several strategies you can use to balance your diet and prevent overeating. First, consider starting your meal with a side salad or vegetable soup to help fill you up with nutrient-dense foods. You can also opt for a smaller serving of steak and make up the difference with extra vegetables or a light dessert. When choosing sides, aim for fresh vegetables and whole grains like quinoa or brown rice. Avoid heavy starches like mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese, which can add unnecessary calories and carbs.

The Effect of Country Style Steak on Your Weight and Health

While country style steak can be a delicious and satisfying meal, it's important to be mindful of its impact on your weight and health. Consuming too many calories and saturated fat can lead to weight gain and increase your risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. However, incorporating country style steak into a balanced diet in moderation can help you meet your nutritional needs and satisfy your cravings for comfort food.

Tips for Making Country Style Steak Healthier

To make country style steak healthier, consider using a leaner cut of steak and a lighter gravy made with low-fat milk or almond milk. You can also add flavor and nutrition by incorporating fresh herbs and vegetables into the dish. When preparing the steak, try baking or grilling it instead of frying to reduce the fat and calorie content. You can also experiment with different spices and seasonings to add flavor without adding extra calories.

The Best Side Dishes for Country Style Steak

When pairing country style steak with sides, it's important to choose options that are both tasty and nutritious. Consider opting for fresh or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. You can also enjoy a refreshing side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. For additional fiber and protein, try incorporating whole grains like quinoa or brown rice into your meal.

Enjoying Country Style Steak in Moderation

While country style steak is high in calories, it can still be enjoyed as part of a healthy and balanced diet when consumed in moderation. To keep your calorie intake in check, consider using a leaner cut of steak, making a lighter gravy, and pairing the dish with nutrient-dense sides. You can also experiment with different cooking methods and spices to add flavor without adding extra calories.