CHICKEN FRIED STEAK FINGERS

Chicken Fried Steak Fingers

Quick & Crispy Southern Comfort Classic

Key Info:

• Prep Time: 15-25 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dietary: Not Vegetarian, Contains Gluten/Dairy

Equipment Needed:

• Large cast iron skillet
• Tongs
• Shallow breading bowls
• Cooking thermometer
• Wire rack
• Paper towels

Ingredients:

• 1.5-3 lbs cube steak
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup crushed saltine crackers
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Salt & black pepper
• Cajun seasoning

Crucial Pro Tips:

• Buttermilk marinade is secret to tender meat
• Keep oil at 350-375°F consistently
• Don’t overcrowd the pan
• Rest breaded strips before frying

Method:

1. Prepare Steak
   • Cut steak into 1-1.5 inch strips
   • Pat dry completely
   • Season with salt and pepper
2. Marinate (Optional but Recommended)
   • Soak strips in buttermilk
   • Refrigerate 30 minutes to 3 hours
   • Drain and bring to room temperature
3. Create Breading Station
   • Bowl 1: Seasoned flour
   • Bowl 2: Whisked eggs
   • Bowl 3: Cracker crumb mixture
4. Bread the Strips
   • Dredge in flour
   • Dip in egg wash
   • Coat in cracker crumbs
   • Let rest 5-10 minutes
5. Fry to Golden Perfection
   • Heat oil to 350-375°F
   • Fry strips 2-3 minutes per side
   • Achieve deep golden brown color
   • Internal temp should reach 145°F
6. Drain and Serve
   • Place on wire rack
   • Sprinkle with extra seasoning
   • Serve immediately with white gravy

Storage & Reheating:

• Refrigerate: 3 days
• Freeze: Up to 2 months
• Reheat in 375°F oven 10-15 minutes

Flavor Variations:

• Swap beef for chicken
• Add hot sauce to marinade
• Try different seasoning blends
• Experiment with dipping sauces

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Soggy oil (keep temperature consistent)
• Overcrowded pan
• Skipping marinade
• Not letting breading rest

Serving Suggestions:

• White country gravy
• Creole mustard sauce
• Mashed potatoes
• Green beans

Nutrition Note:

High protein, moderate fat. Best enjoyed in moderation as a comfort food treat!

Southern Secret: The buttermilk isn’t just a marinade – it’s a tenderizing magic potion that transforms tough meat into melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness!

Enjoy your crispy, golden steak fingers! 🍽️🇺🇸