Introduction
Country fried steak is a classic southern dish that is loved by many. Traditionally, it is made by coating a tenderized steak in flour and spices, then frying it until golden brown. However, with the rise in popularity of air fryers, you can now enjoy this delicious dish with a healthier twist. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making country fried steak in the air fryer, ensuring a crispy and flavorful result every time.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need:
- 4 beef cube steaks
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons of milk
- Cooking spray
Prepare the Steak
Start by tenderizing the beef cube steaks with a meat tenderizer. This will help to make the steak more tender and easier to cook. Once tenderized, season the steaks with salt and pepper.
Create the Coating Mixture
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.
Dip and Coat
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Dip each steak into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides. Then, transfer the steaks to the flour mixture, pressing down firmly to ensure the coating sticks to the steak.
Air Fryer Time
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the steaks and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the country fried steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help to seal in the juices and keep the steak tender. Serve the steaks with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and gravy, and enjoy this delicious southern classic with a healthier twist.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to ensure your country fried steak turns out perfectly:
- Make sure to preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket as this can prevent proper air circulation and result in uneven cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker coating, you can double dip the steaks in the egg and flour mixture.
- For a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mixture.
- Experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor of your country fried steak.
Conclusion
By using an air fryer, you can enjoy the crispy and flavorful country fried steak without the excess oil and calories. With the simple steps outlined in this article, you can easily recreate this southern classic in the comfort of your own home. So why not give it a try and indulge in this delicious dish today?