Chicken-fried steak

Chicken-fried steak is a dish that originated in the Southern United States. It is a piece of beef steak (usually tenderized cube steak) that is breaded and fried. It is typically served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables.

History

The dish is similar to the classic Viennese dish Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal cutlet. Chicken-fried steak is said to have been brought to Texas by Austrian and German immigrants in the 19th century. These immigrants became known as the "Hill People" or "Hill Country People", and the dish they brought with them was originally called "Wiener Schnitzel" before it became known as chicken-fried steak.

Preparation

The preparation of chicken-fried steak involves taking a thin cut of beef steak, tenderizing it by pounding, dredging it in seasoned flour, then dipping it in beaten egg before dredging it in more flour. It is then fried in a skillet until it is golden brown. The dish is typically served with a cream gravy, made from the pan drippings, milk, and more flour, and is often accompanied by mashed potatoes and a vegetable side.

Variations

There are several variations of chicken-fried steak. In Oklahoma, it is often served with a side of cornbread. In Texas, it is sometimes topped with chili and cheese and served on a bun as a sandwich. In the Midwest, it is often served with a side of hash browns.

In popular culture

Chicken-fried steak has been featured in numerous films and television shows, often as a symbol of Southern culture or comfort food. It is also a popular dish at many diners and fast food restaurants in the Southern United States.

See also

• Country fried steak
• Fried chicken
• List of regional dishes of the United States
• List of steak dishes