Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savorily Creamy Chicken Fried Steak?
It is a comforting twist on the classic chicken fried steak, featuring tender cube steaks and a rich, creamy mushroom gravy made from the pan drippings.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one pound of cube steak, cut into four pieces.
How should I season the cube steaks?
Season the steaks generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for maximum flavor.
How do I prepare the steaks for frying?
Coat the seasoned cube steaks in flour and let them rest for a few minutes before cooking.
How can I make the steak extra crispy?
To achieve an extra crispy texture, dredge the steaks in flour a second time after the initial resting period.
What is the first step in the cooking process?
Start by seasoning the cube steaks and dredging them in flour.
What kind of oil should I use?
You can use any frying oil, heating enough to lightly cover the bottom of a large skillet until it shimmers.
How long do I fry the steaks?
Brown the steaks thoroughly for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until they are golden brown.
What heat setting should I use for browning the meat?
Use medium-high heat to brown the steaks effectively.
Should I drain the oil after browning?
Yes, carefully drain excess oil if necessary, but leave a small amount in the pan to maintain flavor for the gravy.
What type of soup is used for the gravy?
The recipe uses one 26-ounce can of cream of mushroom soup.
Can I use smaller cans of soup?
Yes, you can use two small cans of cream of mushroom soup if you do not have a large 26-ounce can.
Do I need to dilute the cream of mushroom soup?
No, the soup should be added to the skillet undiluted.
What temperature should I simmer the steaks at?
Lower the heat to medium once you add the soup to the skillet.
How long does the steak simmer in the sauce?
Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for approximately 30 minutes.
Should I stir the mixture while it simmers?
You should turn the meat occasionally and scrape the brown bits from the bottom to enrich the gravy.
What are 'crustys' in this recipe?
'Crustys' are the flavorful brown bits that stick to the bottom of the pan while frying, which should be scraped into the gravy.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve the Chicken Fried Steak over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the creamy gravy.
Is this recipe considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is designed as a one-dish meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: cube steak, cream of mushroom soup, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oil.
Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely, its unmatched flavor and comforting nature make it great for both weeknights and special events.
How much cube steak do I need?
You will need 1 pound of cube steak.
Can I substitute the garlic powder?
While the recipe calls for garlic powder, you could use fresh garlic, though it may change the texture of the breading.
Why let the meat rest after dredging?
Resting allows the flour to adhere better to the meat, ensuring the coating doesn't fall off during frying.
How do I ensure the meat is tender?
The 30-minute simmering process in the mushroom soup helps to tenderize the cube steaks.
What makes the gravy special?
The gravy is made directly in the pan using the steak's browned bits and cream of mushroom soup.
Can I serve this with something other than rice?
While rice is suggested, it would also pair well with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Do I cover the pan while simmering?
Yes, you should cover the skillet while the steaks simmer in the soup.
What is the texture of the final dish?
The dish features tender meat with a savory, golden-brown coating smothered in a thick, creamy sauce.
How many pieces should the steak be cut into?
The 1 pound of cube steak should be cut into 4 individual pieces.