Country fried steaks are a southern classic that has been enjoyed by many for generations. This delicious comfort food is made by coating a piece of tenderized beef in seasoned flour, then frying it until golden brown. Country fried steaks are a perfect main dish for any occasion, be it a family dinner or a potluck party.
While country fried steaks are amazing on their own, this dish often needs some sides to complete the meal. The perfect sides elevate the flavors of the steak and add extra texture and nutrition to the plate. This article will explore some of the best sides that go well with country fried steaks to help you create a well-rounded meal.
Classic Southern Sides
When it comes to classic Southern sides, country fried steak pairs perfectly with a variety of traditional favorites. One popular choice is creamy mashed potatoes, which provide a satisfying and comforting complement to the crispy steak. Collard greens are another traditional side that adds a healthy dose of leafy greens to the plate, seasoned with bacon or ham hocks for added flavor.
For those who want to indulge in the heartier side of Southern fare, mac and cheese is the perfect indulgent accompaniment to country fried steak. And of course, no Southern meal is complete without a serving of cornbread, whether it’s in muffin or loaf form. Overall, classic Southern sides provide a filling and delicious accompaniment to the flavorful and hearty country fried steak, creating a perfectly balanced meal that satisfies both the meat and vegetable lovers at the table.
Creative Twists on Traditional Sides
If you want to add a little excitement to your meal, try putting a unique spin on classic sides. Instead of plain mashed potatoes, try adding some garlic or cheese. You could also mix in some bacon bits or chives for an extra burst of flavor. Another fun twist on mashed potatoes is to make them into potato pancakes by adding some flour and eggs and frying them up.
If you’re looking for a vegetable side, consider making a twist on green beans. Instead of simply boiling them, try sautéing them with garlic and almonds, or even wrapping them in bacon and baking them in the oven. You could also try mixing up your coleslaw by adding some chopped apples or dried cranberries for a sweet and tangy flavor, or swapping out the traditional dressing for a vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar. The options are endless when it comes to creatively tweaking classic sides to complement your country fried steak.
Vegetarian-Friendly Side Dishes
If you’re a vegetarian or you’ve got vegetarian guests coming over for dinner, there are plenty of side dishes that go well with country fried steaks. One great option is a colorful vegetable salad. You can use lettuce, tomato, cucumber, onion, and any other veggies you have on hand. Top it off with a simple vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing side dish.
Roasted vegetables are another excellent side dish to serve with country fried steaks. You can use whatever vegetables you have in your fridge, like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, or brussels sprouts. Simply toss them in olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then roast them in the oven until they’re tender. The result is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that pairs perfectly with the crunchy, hearty flavor of country fried steaks.
Pairing Wine and Beer with Country Fried Steak
Pairing wine and beer with country fried steak can enhance the dining experience to a great extent. When it comes to wine, you can choose a bold and dry red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. These wines perfectly complement the rich flavor and fatty texture of the fried steak. Moreover, if you prefer white wine, you can go for a Chardonnay, which has an oaky flavor and the high acidity perfectly balances the richness of the dish.
For beer lovers, there are a variety of beers that pair well with country fried steak. A good choice would be a brown ale or a lager. The nutty and sweet flavor of brown ale helps cut through the heaviness of the dish, while lager provides a refreshing palate cleanse after every bite. Furthermore, for those who want to explore different flavors, they can try Belgian dubbel or IPA, which have their unique taste and add a new dimension to your dining experience. Whatever your preference may be, pairing the right wine or beer can add a new dimension of flavors to complement the richness of the dish and make your meal more enjoyable.
All About Gravy: Perfecting the Perfect Sauce
When it comes to country fried steaks, the gravy is the star of the show. It adds richness and flavor to the dish and ties everything together. But making the perfect gravy can be challenging, and there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, it’s essential to use the right fat. The drippings from the fried steaks are best, but if you don’t have enough, you can use butter or oil. Next, be sure to whisk the flour into the fat until smooth before adding any liquid. And when adding the liquid, do it gradually while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Finally, let the gravy simmer for a few minutes to thicken and allow the flavors to develop. With a few tips and tricks, you’ll have a delicious, velvety smooth gravy that perfectly complements your country fried steaks.
Homemade Biscuits and Rolls for the Ultimate Meal
No Southern meal is complete without a basket of homemade biscuits or rolls. For the ultimate country fried steak feast, nothing pairs better with the savory and crispy entree than fresh-baked bread. Homemade biscuits are a particularly popular choice, as they offer a light and buttery texture that perfectly complements the tenderness of the steak. A common technique is to top the biscuits with rich homemade gravy, made from the same pan drippings used to cook the country fried steak.
Rolls are also a favorite choice to serve with country fried steaks. Whether the rolls are fluffy and soft or chewy and crusty, they offer a satisfying contrast to the crunchy exterior of the steak. Some popular types of rolls include honey wheat, sourdough, and garlic parmesan. Regardless of the type of bread you choose, homemade biscuits or rolls will elevate your country fried steak dinner to the next level, offering comfort and warmth to every bite.
Desserts to Complement Your Country Fried Steak Feast
No meal is complete without a delectable dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth. When it comes to complementing a hearty meal of country fried steaks, there are several dessert options that can enhance the taste and texture of the dish.
For those who enjoy a light and refreshing dessert, a fruit salad or sorbet can be the perfect accompaniment. The acidic and refreshing qualities of these desserts can cut through the richness of the steak and provide a balanced end to the meal. A slice of pie or a cake with a dollop of whipped cream can also be a great option for those who crave something more indulgent. Whatever dessert option you choose, make sure it complements the country fried steak feast and doesn’t overshadow it.
The Bottom Line
Country fried steak is a delicious and satisfying dish that requires just the right sides to truly make it sing. Whether you go with classic pairings like mashed potatoes and green beans or branch out with unique options like jalapeno cornbread and collard greens, there are plenty of sides to choose from that are sure to please.
No matter what sides you choose, the key is to focus on complimentary flavors and textures. Creamy and buttery potatoes pair well with the crispy steak, while tart and tangy pickles provide a contrast to the rich gravy. With a little experimentation and creativity, you can find the perfect sides to make your country fried steak meal complete.