Chicken Fried Steak Dish (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Steak

01 - 4 (170 g / 6 oz) cube steaks (about 1 kg / 2 lbs total)
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
08 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
09 - 2 large eggs
10 - 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
11 - 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
12 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or enough for frying)

→ For the Gravy

13 - 2 tablespoons butter
14 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
15 - 1 1/2 cups whole milk
16 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
17 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
18 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
19 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

# Instructions:

01 - In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce if using. Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, then dip in the egg wash, and return to the flour for a second coating. Press the flour firmly onto the steak for a crispy crust.
02 - In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until hot (about 175°C / 350°F). Carefully add the breaded steaks to the oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
03 - In the same skillet, reduce the oil to about 2 tablespoons or add butter if needed. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
04 - Serve the chicken fried steak topped with the creamy gravy. Garnish with extra black pepper if desired. Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttered corn for a complete Southern-style meal.

# Notes:

01 - Tenderize the meat with a meat mallet if not using cube steak to achieve an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
02 - Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
03 - Double dip the steaks in the flour and egg wash for an extra crispy coating.