Description
Steak Fingers are crispy, tender strips of beef coated in a seasoned batter and fried to golden perfection. They are a Southern comfort food favorite, often served with creamy country gravy for dipping. These delicious steak fingers are perfect as an appetizer, a main dish, or for game day snacking!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Steak Fingers:
- 1 lb (450 g) cube steak or round steak, cut into 1-inch wide strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Country Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
🔪 Prepare the Steak Fingers:
-
Cut the Steak:
- Cut the cube steak into strips about 1 inch wide and 3-4 inches long.
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Season the Flour:
- In a shallow bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
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Prepare the Egg Wash:
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce.
🍳 Coat the Steak Fingers:
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Dredge the Steak:
- Dip each steak strip in the seasoned flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and back into the flour mixture.
- Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
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Set Aside:
- Place the coated steak fingers on a plate or baking sheet.
🍟 Fry the Steak Fingers:
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Heat the Oil:
- Heat 2 cups of oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Fry the Strips:
- Fry steak fingers in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
-
Drain the Excess Oil:
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
🍶 Make the Country Gravy:
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Melt Butter:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
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Make the Roux:
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
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Add Milk:
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
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Season and Thicken:
- Add salt and black pepper.
- Simmer until the gravy thickens (3-5 minutes), then remove from heat.
🍽️ Serve:
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Plate and Dip:
- Serve the crispy steak fingers with a generous side of country gravy.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with fries, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Make It Spicy: Add extra cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the flour mixture.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Lightly spray with oil for a crispy finish.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.