Chicken Fried Steak with Jalapeno Bacon Gravy

Step 1

If necessary, pound the cube steaks to ¼” thickness. (Note: An easy way to do this is place the steaks between two pieces of plastic wrap and then use a kitchen mallet or rolling pin to pound steaks to ¼”.)

Step 2

Pat steaks dry using paper towels; set steaks aside.

Step 3

Using a plate or shallow bowl, add flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, smoked paprika and onion powder; whisk together until well combined.

Step 4

Spread bread crumbs out onto a second plate.

Step 5

Using a separate shallow bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, hot sauce and minced garlic.

Step 6

Using a large skillet, add enough oil to fill pan ½”; place over medium-high heat until oil reaches 350°F. (Tip: To determine when oil is hot enough, drop a pinch of breadcrumbs into the oil. If it bubbles up immediately, then the oil is ready. If the oil begins to smoke at any point, immediately reduce heat.)

Step 7

Working with one piece of steak at a time, dip both sides first into the flour, then into the buttermilk mixture and then finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Place the steak into the skillet. (Note: I typically do this in 2 batches of 2 steaks each so as not to overcrowd the skillet.)

Step 8

Fry steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until both sides are golden brown. Remove steaks from skillet and place on a paper-towel lined plate.

Step 9

Once steaks have been fried, drain all but ¼ cup of the leftover oil from the skillet.

Step 10

Place skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced jalapenos and bacon; sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until jalapenos have softened slightly and bacon is crispy.

Step 11

Gradually whisk flour into skillet, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a flat-edged wooden spoon to release any solids into the gravy.

Step 12

Add buttermilk, whipping cream, salt, pepper and paprika; stir until well combined. Bring gravy to a simmer, stirring often.

Step 13

Continue cooking for 6-7 minutes, stirring often, or until gravy has thickened. (Note: If gravy becomes too thick, just add 1-2 Tbsp of cream or milk.)

Step 14

Spoon gravy over steaks before serving.