Imagine yourself sitting in a cozy diner in the heart of the South, surrounded by friendly faces and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals. One dish that stands out on the menu is Shoney’s Country Fried Steak. This iconic Southern comfort food is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its crispy coating and tender beef smothered in rich gravy.
Tastes Just Like the Original
This homemade version of Shoney’s Country Fried Steak tastes just like the original, bringing the flavors of the South right to your kitchen. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can recreate this classic dish with ease.
Reasons to Make Shoney’s Country Fried Steak
- It’s a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will love.
- It’s a great way to experience the flavors of the South without leaving your home.
- It’s a simple and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Why My Family Loves This Meal
My family loves Shoney’s Country Fried Steak because it reminds us of Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house. The crispy coating, tender beef, and creamy gravy bring back memories of laughter and love shared around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 beef cube steaks – for the main protein component
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – for coating the steaks
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for added flavor
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – for added flavor
- 1 teaspoon paprika – for a hint of spice
- Salt and pepper to taste – for seasoning
- 2 cups buttermilk – for tenderizing the meat
- Vegetable oil for frying – for cooking the steaks
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure to season the cube steaks with salt and pepper. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another dish, pour the buttermilk for dipping the steaks.
Cutting Techniques
When cutting the cube steaks, make sure to use a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts. This will help the steaks cook evenly and maintain their shape during frying.
Kitchen Tools Required
- Cast iron skillet – for frying the steaks
- Tongs – for flipping the steaks
- Meat thermometer – for checking the internal temperature of the steaks
Temperature and Timing Guide
Heat the vegetable oil in the cast iron skillet to 350°F before adding the steaks. Cook each steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Steaks are not crispy: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the steaks, and avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Gravy is too thick: Add more milk or broth to thin out the gravy to your desired consistency.
Instructions
- Coat the steaks: Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, then dip in the buttermilk, and coat again in the flour mixture.
- Fry the steaks: Heat the vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet and fry the steaks until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Make the gravy: In the same skillet, whisk together flour and milk to make a creamy gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Pour the gravy over the fried steaks and serve hot with mashed potatoes and green beans.
Tips for Perfect Results
For extra crispy steaks, double coat them in the flour mixture before frying. Make sure to let the steaks rest on a wire rack after frying to prevent them from getting soggy.
Alternative Ways to Enjoy Shoney’s Country Fried Steak
- Try using chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of this dish.
- Experiment with different seasonings in the flour mixture for a unique flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
Shoney’s Country Fried Steak is a classic Southern dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to any meal. By following this recipe and adding your own personal touch, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will transport you to the heart of the South. Enjoy!
