Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak: A Copycat Recipe

Country fried steak is a beloved American classic, especially popular in the Southern states. Its crispy exterior and tender interior have captivated taste buds for generations. But what if we could elevate this comfort food into a global culinary sensation? Let’s embark on a flavor journey, blending the best of Southern cuisine with international influences.

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless beef cube steak

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornmeal

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon paprika

1/2 cup vegetable oil

For the Gravy:

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups beef broth

1/2 cup milk

Salt and pepper to taste

Image Source: sugarandsoul.co

Preparation Process:

1. Tenderize the Steak: Pound the beef cube steak to a 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet. This will ensure a tender and juicy result.
2. Marinate the Steak: In a shallow dish, combine buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Add the pounded steak and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
3. Prepare the breading: In a separate dish, combine flour, cornmeal, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
4. Coat the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on both sides.
5. Fry the Steak: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated steak and fry until golden brown on both sides.
6. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the roux turns a light brown color. Gradually whisk in beef broth, milk, salt, and pepper. Bring the gravy to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened.
7. Serve: Place the fried steak on a plate and top with the creamy gravy. Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.

Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Serving Ideas:

Global Fusion: Pair the Southern Symphony with a side of spicy Korean kimchi or a refreshing cucumber salad.

Classic Comfort: Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, and a slice of warm cornbread.

Elegant dinner: Elevate the dish by plating it on a bed of creamy polenta and drizzling with a truffle oil reduction.

Cultural Influences:

The Southern Symphony is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. It draws inspiration from various cultural traditions, including:

Southern American: The heart of the dish, the country-fried steak, is a quintessential Southern comfort food.

European: The technique of breading and frying is a European culinary tradition, dating back centuries.

Asian: The addition of Asian-inspired flavors, such as soy sauce or ginger, can elevate the dish to new heights.

This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a journey through time and culture. By blending the best of different culinary worlds, we create a dish that is both familiar and exotic, comforting and exciting.