Cracker Barrel Copycat: Crispy Chicken Fried Steak

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Cracker Barrel’s chicken fried steak is a beloved classic, a testament to the heart of Southern cuisine. Its crispy exterior and tender interior have captivated taste buds for generations. However, today, we embark on a culinary journey, taking this iconic dish and infusing it with global flavors, creating a symphony of taste that transcends borders.

Ingredients:

1.5 pounds boneless, cube steak, pounded thin

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • For the Pan Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Fresh thyme, for garnish

    • Preparation Process:

    1. Prep the Steak: Dredge the pounded cube steak in a mixture of flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Shake off excess flour.
    2. Batter Up: Dip the floured steak into the beaten egg, then coat it in a mixture of flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
    3. Fry to Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated steak until golden brown on both sides.
    4. Create the Pan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually whisk in beef broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
    5. Plate and Serve: Place the fried steak on a plate and top with the creamy pan sauce. Garnish with fresh thyme.

    Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes

    Serving Suggestions:

    Classic Southern: Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, and a slice of cornbread.

  • Asian Fusion: Serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables and a drizzle of soy sauce.
  • Mediterranean Twist: Accompany with roasted vegetables, hummus, and pita bread.

    • A Global Culinary Fusion

    This recipe is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. It takes a beloved Southern dish and elevates it with global influences. The crispy exterior and tender interior of the chicken fried steak remain the star of the show, but the pan sauce, with its rich flavors and creamy texture, adds a touch of sophistication. The versatility of this dish allows for endless creative possibilities, inviting you to experiment with different flavors and presentations.

    As we savor this culinary masterpiece, we celebrate the diversity of cultures and the universal language of food. It is a reminder that by blending traditions and embracing innovation, we can create truly extraordinary dining experiences.