Why is it called Chicken Fried Steak? It’s a question that has puzzled many of us.
For a dish so iconic in Texas fine cuisine, it’s odd that a name so mundane could adequately describe the flavors and textures of this comfort food classic. For those who are unacquainted with this southern belle, chicken-fried steak is a cut of beef, coated in seasoned flour and fried in a pan with butter or other oil. The resulting breaded patty is often served with gravy and mashed potatoes.
The name of this dish is steeped in mystery, but all roads lead to a single source: its origins in German cuisine. In the early 1800s, German settlers traveled to the United States and brought with them a love for hearty, fried foods. Over time, their recipes were adapted to include locally-abundant ingredients, such as beef.
This transformation of traditional recipes led to dishes such as chicken-fried steak, which has become a beloved staple in Texas home cooking. So let’s take a journey through this dish’s intriguing history and find out why it’s called chicken-fried steak.
Why is it called Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken fried steak is a dish made of steak that is breaded, usually deep-fried, and served with a creamy gravy.The dish is also sometimes referred to as country fried steak and is common in Southern and Midwestern United States cuisine. It is also quite popular in Australia and New Zealand.
History of Chicken Fried Steak
The origin of this dish is debated, but the most popular story is that it was introduced to the United States by German immigrants in the 19th century.In Germany, it is known as schnitzel, and the dish is traditionally made with veal rather than steak. Eventually, the dish was changed and adapted to use more affordable cuts of steak, such as cube steak.
Materials Used To Make Chicken Fried Steak
To make this dish, the ingredients used are simple.The steak is typically a cube steak, which is made from a tougher cut of steak that is then tenderized with a mallet. It is then dipped in egg and seasoned flour before being fried.
For a creamier gravy, milk or cream is usually added.
What does ‘Chicken Fried Steak’ Mean?
The name of the dish is somewhat misleading, as the steak is not actually fried in chicken fat. The “chicken” part of the name refers to the process that is used to cook it. As the steak is dipped in egg and fried in a similar way to how chicken is fried, it is called “chicken fried steak”.