If you're a fan of Southern cuisine, you've probably had a taste of Country Fried Steak. This classic dish offers a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for any time of day. One serving (111 g) of Country Fried Steak without Peppered White Gravy contains about 360 calories.

In terms of nutritional value, Country Fried Steak is high in protein, iron, and vitamin B12, which are essential for building and maintaining muscle, carrying oxygen throughout the body, and supporting the nervous system. However, it's also high in fat and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history, ingredients, cooking techniques, and benefits of Country Fried Steak, as well as share a delicious recipe for you to try at home.

Preparation of Country Fried Steak

Country Fried Steak is typically made by coating a tenderized cut of beef in seasoned flour or breadcrumbs, then frying it in oil until crispy and golden brown. To make a healthier version, you can use leaner cuts of beef, such as sirloin or round steak, and bake or grill it instead of frying. You can also use whole wheat flour or panko breadcrumbs instead of white flour. Serve with a side of vegetables, such as roasted asparagus or steamed green beans, to add some fiber and nutrients to your meal.

Nutritional Value of Country Fried Steak

A serving of Country Fried Steak without Peppered White Gravy contains approximately 360 calories, 21 grams of protein, 24 grams of fat, and 13 grams of carbohydrates. It's also a good source of iron, providing 20% of the daily recommended intake, as well as vitamin B12, which is important for brain function and nerve health. However, Country Fried Steak is high in sodium and saturated fat, which can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems if consumed in excess.

Ingredients of Country Fried Steak

The main ingredients for Country Fried Steak include a tenderized cut of beef, flour or breadcrumbs, eggs, milk or buttermilk, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and paprika. Some variations may include additional seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper, as well as a white gravy made with milk or cream, flour, and black pepper. For a healthier version, you can use whole wheat flour or panko breadcrumbs, low-fat milk or buttermilk, and leaner cuts of beef.

History of Country Fried Steak

Country Fried Steak is a classic Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Its origins can be traced back to the German dish known as schnitzel, which is made by pounding a cut of meat and then breading and frying it. In the United States, Country Fried Steak became popular in the Southern states during the 1920s and 1930s, when beef was more readily available and affordable. Today, it remains a beloved comfort food that is often served with mashed potatoes, biscuits, and gravy.

Cooking Time of Country Fried Steak

The cooking time for Country Fried Steak can vary depending on the thickness of the meat and the cooking method used. Generally, it takes about 3-4 minutes per side to fry a 1/2-inch thick cut of beef. If baking, it can take 20-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C), or if grilling, it can take 5-6 minutes per side over medium-high heat. To ensure that the meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature, use a meat thermometer and cook until it reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.

Cooking Techniques for Country Fried Steak

The key to making a delicious Country Fried Steak is to tenderize the meat before cooking it. This can be done by pounding it with a meat mallet, or by using a commercial meat tenderizer. Once the meat is tenderized, dip it in a mixture of beaten eggs and milk or buttermilk, then coat it in seasoned flour or breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the coating firmly into the meat to ensure it adheres well. When frying, use a heavy skillet or deep fryer with enough oil to cover the meat completely. Heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C) and cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

Popular Variations of Country Fried Steak

While the traditional Country Fried Steak is made with beef, there are many variations that use chicken or pork instead. Chicken Fried Chicken is a popular variation that uses boneless chicken breast, while Country Fried Pork Steak is made with bone-in pork chops. Some recipes also include a white gravy made with milk, flour, and black pepper, which adds a creamy and savory touch to the dish. Other variations may use different seasonings or coatings, such as cornmeal or crushed crackers. No matter the variation, Country Fried Steak is always a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Serving Suggestions for Country Fried Steak

Country Fried Steak is often served with mashed potatoes and gravy as a classic Southern meal. Other popular sides include cornbread, green beans, macaroni and cheese, or okra. For a healthier option, you can serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables. You can also try pairing it with different sauces, such as honey mustard or barbecue sauce, for a fun twist. Whatever you choose to serve it with, Country Fried Steak is a filling and delicious meal that's sure to satisfy your appetite.

Benefits of Country Fried Steak in Diet

While Country Fried Steak is not the healthiest option, it can still be part of a balanced diet when eaten in moderation. The beef provides a good source of protein and iron, which are essential for building and maintaining muscle, as well as carrying oxygen throughout the body. However, it's important to choose leaner cuts of beef and avoid excessive amounts of oil and seasoning to reduce the intake of saturated fat and sodium. By pairing it with nutritious sides and controlling portions, you can enjoy a delicious Country Fried Steak without sacrificing your health goals.

Recipe for Country Fried Steak

Here's a simple and easy recipe for Country Fried Steak that you can make at home: Ingredients: - 4 (4 oz) beef sirloin steaks, tenderized - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 2 eggs, beaten - 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk - 1 tsp salt - 1/2 tsp black pepper - 1 tsp paprika - Oil for frying