Chicken Fried Steak with Cream Gravy

Preparing the Steak:

1. Tenderize the Steaks: If your steaks aren’t already tenderized, use a meat mallet to pound them to about 1/4 inch thickness. This helps tenderize the meat and ensures even cooking.
2. Season the Flour: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash: In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and 1/4 cup milk.
4. Dredge the Steaks: Dip each steak first in the flour mixture, then in the egg wash, and finally in the flour mixture again, pressing the flour into the steaks to ensure a good coat.
5. Fry the Steaks: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. Transfer the cooked steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Making the Cream Gravy:

1. Reserve the Drippings: After frying the steaks, reserve about 2 tablespoons of the oil and bits in the skillet for making the gravy. Discard the remaining oil.
2. Cook the Flour: Over medium heat, add the 2 tablespoons of flour to the reserved oil and bits in the skillet. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes, or until the flour is lightly browned. This cooks the flour and forms the base of your gravy.
3. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the gravy has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. If the gravy is too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
4. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serving:

• Place the chicken fried steaks on plates and generously cover them with the cream gravy. Serve hot.

Tips for Serving:

• Accompaniments: Chicken Fried Steak is traditionally served with mashed potatoes and green beans, but it also pairs well with corn on the cob, coleslaw, or a simple garden salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish: For an added touch, garnish with a little chopped parsley or chives on top of the gravy before serving.

This Chicken Fried Steak with Cream Gravy recipe is a comforting, filling meal that brings the warmth and nostalgia of Southern cooking to your table. Enjoy the process of making it and the delicious results!