Cracker Barrel’s chicken fried steak is a beloved classic, a hearty dish that evokes images of rustic kitchens and hearty appetites. Yet, it’s a canvas upon which we can paint a masterpiece of global flavors. Today, we’ll embark on a culinary journey, where the familiar transforms into the extraordinary.
Ingredients:
1.5 pounds boneless, cube steak
Image Source: sugarandsoul.co
Preparation Process:
1. Prep the Steak: Pound the cube steak to a 1/4-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge: In a shallow dish, whisk together 1 cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Dredge the steak in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
3. Batter Up: In another shallow dish, whisk together the beaten eggs and buttermilk. Dip the floured steak into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Final Flour Coat: Dredge the steak once more in the remaining flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry to Perfection: Heat the vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steak until golden brown on both sides and cooked through.
6. Create the Gravy: In the same skillet, pour off excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 5-10 minutes.
7. Plate and Serve: Place the cooked steak on a plate and top with the rich, flavorful gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Serving Ideas:
Classic Comfort: Serve with mashed potatoes, creamy mashed cauliflower, or a side of buttery biscuits.
A Culinary Odyssey
This recipe is a testament to the power of culinary fusion, where the familiar and the exotic intertwine. The hearty steak, a staple of American cuisine, is elevated by the rich, savory gravy, a nod to British culinary traditions. The addition of global spices and herbs adds depth and complexity, creating a dish that is both comforting and adventurous.
As we savor this symphony of flavors, let us remember the journey that brought us here. From the rustic kitchens of the American South to the bustling markets of distant lands, our taste buds have traversed the globe. With each bite, we celebrate the diversity of human culture and the universal language of food.
