Cube steak is a budget-friendly cut of beef that, when cooked right, can be deliciously tender and crispy on the outside. If you’ve ever wondered how to fry cube steak to perfection, you’re in the right place. This article will walk you through everything you need to know to make mouthwatering pan-fried cube steak that’s perfect for any meal.
What Is Cube Steak?
Cube steak is a cut of beef, usually from the top round or top sirloin, that has been tenderized by pounding with a meat mallet. This process creates small indentations or “cubes” on the surface, hence the name. Because it’s a tougher cut made tender through pounding, cube steak is ideal for frying and quick cooking methods. It’s also very affordable, making it a favorite for home cooks looking for hearty meals without breaking the bank.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 pound cube steak
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional for color and mild flavor)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or another frying oil
Step-by-Step Guide to Fry Cube Steak
1. Prep Your Steak
If your cube steak isn’t already tenderized, use a meat mallet to pound it evenly to about ¼-inch thickness. This helps break down the fibers and makes the steak more tender when fried.
2. Season and Dredge
In a shallow dish, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This seasoned flour will give your steak a flavorful crust.
Press each piece of cube steak firmly into the flour mixture, coating both sides well. Shake off excess flour before frying to avoid clumps.
3. Heat the Oil
Pour enough oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom about ¼-inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers but isn’t smoking. You want the oil hot enough to sizzle the flour coating immediately but not burn it.
4. Fry the Steak
Carefully place the coated steaks in the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and crispy. Flip gently to keep the coating intact.
5. Drain and Rest
Remove the steaks from the pan and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes to keep the juices locked inside.
Tips for Perfectly Fried Cube Steak
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches if needed to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
– Use a meat thermometer or test oil temperature: The oil should be around 350°F (175°C). You can test by sprinkling a pinch of flour into the oil-if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
– Double dredge for extra crispy crust: For a thicker crust, dip the steak in flour, then egg wash, then flour again before frying.
– Keep cooked steaks warm: Place fried steaks on a wire rack in a warm oven (around 200°F) while finishing the rest.
– Serve with gravy: Classic country or cream gravy pairs beautifully with fried cube steak, along with mashed potatoes and rolls for a comforting meal.
Variations to Try
– Chicken Fried Cube Steak: Coat the steak with seasoned flour, dip in egg wash, then flour again for a Southern-style crispy crust. Serve with white gravy for a true comfort food experience.
– Spicy Fried Cube Steak: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to your flour mix for a spicy kick.
– Mushroom Sauce: Serve your fried cube steak topped with a rich mushroom gravy for extra flavor.
– Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a tangy balsamic reduction over the steak for a gourmet twist.
Why Fry Cube Steak?
Frying cube steak is quick, easy, and yields a deliciously crispy outside with a tender inside. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want a satisfying meal without fuss. Cube steak’s affordability and versatility make it a great choice for families and anyone who loves hearty, flavorful food.
Cube steak is a humble cut that shines when fried properly. With just a few simple steps-seasoning, dredging, frying, and resting-you can create a dish that’s crispy, tender, and packed with flavor. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or experiment with gravies and spices, frying cube steak is a skill worth mastering for any home cook.
Enjoy your delicious fried cube steak with your favorite sides and watch it become a new family favorite!