Chicken fried steak, a beloved dish in the Southern United States, has long been a staple of comfort food. However, its name has often raised eyebrows, leaving many to wonder why it’s called “chicken” when it’s actually made from beef. In this article, we’ll delve into the history and origins of chicken fried steak, exploring the reasons behind its misleading moniker.
A Brief History of Chicken Fried Steak
To understand why chicken fried steak is called as such, it’s essential to look at its history. The dish originated in the late 19th century in the Southern United States, specifically in the states of Texas and Oklahoma. During this time, beef was a staple in many households, but it was often tough and difficult to cook. To make the beef more palatable, cooks would pound it thin, dredge it in flour, and then fry it in a skillet.
The technique of pounding and frying beef was not new, even back then. In fact, it was a common practice in many European countries, particularly in Germany and Austria, where a similar dish called “schnitzel” was popular. However, the Southern United States put its own twist on the recipe, using a combination of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs to create a crispy exterior.
The Influence of German and Austrian Cuisine
The influence of German and Austrian cuisine on chicken fried steak cannot be overstated. Many German and Austrian immigrants settled in the Southern United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bringing with them their culinary traditions. One of these traditions was the practice of pounding and frying meat, which was often served with a side of potatoes and vegetables.
The German and Austrian immigrants also introduced the concept of using a breading mixture to coat the meat before frying. This breading mixture, typically made from flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, helped to create a crispy exterior while keeping the interior of the meat tender and juicy.
The Role of Wiener Schnitzel
Wiener schnitzel, a popular Austrian dish, is often cited as a major influence on chicken fried steak. Wiener schnitzel is a breaded and fried veal cutlet that is typically served with a side of potatoes and vegetables. The dish was popularized in the United States by Austrian immigrants, who brought their culinary traditions with them.
While Wiener schnitzel is made with veal, chicken fried steak is made with beef. However, the cooking technique and breading mixture used in Wiener schnitzel are similar to those used in chicken fried steak. This has led some to speculate that chicken fried steak was inspired by Wiener schnitzel, with beef being substituted for veal.
Theories Behind the Name “Chicken Fried Steak”
So, why is chicken fried steak called “chicken” when it’s actually made from beef? There are several theories, each with its own merits.
The “Chicken-Fried” Cooking Technique
One theory is that the name “chicken fried steak” refers to the cooking technique used to prepare the dish. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, cooks would often use the term “chicken-fried” to describe a cooking technique that involved dredging meat in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs before frying it in a skillet. This technique was commonly used to cook chicken, but it was also used to cook other types of meat, including beef.
According to this theory, the name “chicken fried steak” refers to the cooking technique used to prepare the dish, rather than the type of meat used. This theory is supported by the fact that other dishes, such as chicken-fried chicken and chicken-fried pork chops, use the same cooking technique.
The Influence of Chicken Cookery
Another theory is that the name “chicken fried steak” was influenced by the popularity of chicken cookery in the Southern United States. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, chicken was a staple in many Southern households, and cooks would often use a variety of techniques to prepare it.
According to this theory, the name “chicken fried steak” was used to describe a dish that was similar to chicken, but made with beef instead. This theory is supported by the fact that chicken fried steak is often served with sides that are commonly associated with chicken, such as mashed potatoes and gravy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the name “chicken fried steak” is a misnomer that has been puzzling foodies for generations. While the dish is actually made from beef, its name refers to the cooking technique used to prepare it, or the influence of chicken cookery in the Southern United States.
Regardless of its origins, chicken fried steak remains a beloved dish in the Southern United States, and its rich history and cultural significance are undeniable. Whether you’re a food historian or simply a lover of comfort food, chicken fried steak is a dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
| Year | Event | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1850s | German and Austrian immigrants settle in the Southern United States | German and Austrian immigrants bring their culinary traditions with them, including the practice of pounding and frying meat. |
| 1880s | Chicken fried steak becomes popular in the Southern United States | Chicken fried steak becomes a staple in many Southern households, particularly in Texas and Oklahoma. |
| 1900s | Wiener schnitzel is introduced to the United States | Wiener schnitzel, a popular Austrian dish, is introduced to the United States by Austrian immigrants. |
- Chicken fried steak is a dish that originated in the Southern United States, specifically in Texas and Oklahoma.
- The dish is made from beef, but its name refers to the cooking technique used to prepare it, or the influence of chicken cookery in the Southern United States.
What is Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken Fried Steak is a popular American dish that consists of a thinly sliced cut of beef, usually top round or top sirloin, that is breaded and fried. The dish is often served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, vegetables, and a rich gravy. Despite its name, Chicken Fried Steak does not contain any chicken.
The origins of Chicken Fried Steak are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the southern United States in the late 19th or early 20th century. The dish was likely created as a way to make a tough cut of beef more palatable and flavorful. Over time, Chicken Fried Steak has become a staple of American comfort food and is often served in restaurants and homes across the country.
Why is it called Chicken Fried Steak if it doesn’t contain chicken?
The name “Chicken Fried Steak” is a misnomer that has been debated by food historians and enthusiasts for years. One theory is that the dish was named for its cooking method, which is similar to that of fried chicken. The breading and frying process used to make Chicken Fried Steak is indeed similar to that of fried chicken, which may have led to the name.
Another theory is that the name “Chicken Fried Steak” was used as a marketing tool to make the dish more appealing to consumers. In the early 20th century, chicken was a more popular and affordable protein than beef, so using the word “chicken” in the name may have been a way to make the dish seem more desirable.
What type of beef is typically used to make Chicken Fried Steak?
The type of beef used to make Chicken Fried Steak can vary depending on the recipe and personal preference. However, top round or top sirloin are the most common cuts of beef used for this dish. These cuts are lean and tender, making them well-suited for the breading and frying process.
The key to making a good Chicken Fried Steak is to use a high-quality cut of beef that is thinly sliced. This allows the beef to cook evenly and prevents it from becoming tough or chewy. Some recipes may also call for the beef to be pounded or tenderized before breading and frying.
How is Chicken Fried Steak typically prepared?
Chicken Fried Steak is typically prepared by breading and frying a thinly sliced cut of beef. The beef is usually seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices before being dredged in a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. The breaded beef is then fried in a skillet or deep fryer until it is golden brown and crispy.
The frying process is critical to making a good Chicken Fried Steak. The beef should be fried at a high temperature to create a crispy exterior, while the interior remains tender and juicy. Some recipes may also call for the addition of a creamy gravy or sauce to serve over the top of the Chicken Fried Steak.
What are some common variations of Chicken Fried Steak?
While traditional Chicken Fried Steak is a beloved dish, there are many variations that can be found in restaurants and homes across the country. Some common variations include using different types of beef, such as flank steak or ribeye, or adding additional ingredients to the breading mixture, such as herbs or spices.
Other variations may include serving the Chicken Fried Steak with different sides, such as creamed spinach or roasted vegetables. Some recipes may also call for the addition of a tangy sauce or gravy, such as a country-style gravy or a spicy pepper sauce.
Is Chicken Fried Steak a healthy dish?
Chicken Fried Steak is not typically considered a healthy dish due to its high calorie and fat content. The breading and frying process used to make Chicken Fried Steak adds a significant amount of calories and fat to the dish. Additionally, the beef used to make Chicken Fried Steak is often high in saturated fat and cholesterol.
However, there are ways to make a healthier version of Chicken Fried Steak. Using a leaner cut of beef, such as sirloin or round, can help reduce the fat content of the dish. Additionally, baking or grilling the beef instead of frying it can help reduce the calorie count.
Can Chicken Fried Steak be made at home?
Yes, Chicken Fried Steak can be made at home with a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills. The key to making a good Chicken Fried Steak at home is to use high-quality ingredients, including a tender cut of beef and a flavorful breading mixture.
To make Chicken Fried Steak at home, simply season the beef with salt, pepper, and other spices, then dredge it in a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Fry the breaded beef in a skillet or deep fryer until it is golden brown and crispy, then serve with your favorite sides and sauces.