Country Fried Steak

Ingredients:

  • 4 beef tenderloin steaks (about 8 oz each)

  • 2 cups buttermilk

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the Steaks:

    • Place the tenderloin steaks in a shallow dish and pour buttermilk over them. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

  1. Prepare the Coating:

    • In a bowl, mix flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

  1. Coat and Fry:

    • Remove steaks from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.

    • Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.

    • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked to your desired level of doneness.

  1. Rest and Serve:

    • Place the fried steaks on a wire rack to allow excess oil to drain.

    • Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Potatoes:

Ingredients:

  • 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • Salt and white pepper, to taste

  • Chives for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Boil and Mash Potatoes:

    • Boil the potato chunks until fork-tender. Drain and return them to the pot.

    • Mash the potatoes with butter and heavy cream until smooth and creamy.

  1. Season and Garnish:

    • Season the mashed potatoes with salt and white pepper, adjusting to taste.

    • Garnish with chopped chives.

Assembly:

  1. Plate the Dish:

    • Place a generous portion of the creamy mashed potatoes on each plate.

  1. Top with Country Fried Steak:

    • Carefully place a country fried steak on top of the mashed potatoes.

  1. Garnish and Serve:

    • Garnish the plate with additional chives or fresh herbs.

  1. Optional Sauce:

    • Consider serving with a simple pan sauce made from the pan drippings, a touch of beef broth, and a splash of red wine.