When it comes to steak, there are various terms used to refer to different cuts and preparations. Two of the most popular are cube steak and country fried steak. While some people use these terms interchangeably, others argue that they are not the same thing.
Cube steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized through a process of pounding with a meat tenderizer. This results in a thinner and more tender piece of meat that can be cooked quickly. On the other hand, country fried steak refers to a dish where cube steak is coated in flour, seasoned with spices, and then pan-fried until crispy and golden brown. Despite the similarities in preparation, there are some key differences between the two.
The Difference Between Cube Steak and Country Fried Steak
Cube steak and country fried steak are often used interchangeably, but are they really the same thing? The answer is no. Cube steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized by a meat tenderizer, either manually or mechanically. This process creates small indentations on the surface of the steak, resembling a cube pattern, hence the name. Cube steak is a lean cut of beef that is perfect for frying, grilling, or braising, making it a versatile ingredient in many classic dishes.
On the other hand, country fried steak is a specific dish that typically uses cube steak as its main ingredient. To make country fried steak, the cube steak is dredged in flour, seasoned, and then fried until golden brown. It is then smothered in a rich gravy made from the pan drippings and served hot. Although cube steak is the key ingredient in country fried steak, it is only one component of this iconic Southern dish. So, while they are related, cube steak is a cut of beef, and country fried steak is a dish that uses cut of beef to create a mouth-watering meal.
Cooking Techniques for Cube Steak and Country Fried Steak
Cooking techniques for cube steak and country fried steak are similar, but there are some differences to achieve that crunchiness and tenderness in the meat. Both dishes involve pounding a cut of beef, usually top round or sirloin, to tenderize it. The meat is then torn into smaller pieces, which are typically dredged in flour, egg, and seasoned breadcrumbs before being cooked in a hot frying pan with oil or butter.
The difference lies in the cooking process. Traditional country fried steak is prepared by cooking the beef in a cast iron skillet or deep fryer until it is golden brown and crisp on the outside. Cube steaks, on the other hand, can be cooked in a variety of ways, from pan-frying to baking to grilling. The technique used depends on the recipe and desired outcome. Nevertheless, both methods result in delicious, mouth-watering dishes that are sure to please any meat lover.
The Origins of Cube Steak and Country Fried Steak
Cube steak and country fried steak are two popular dishes in Southern cuisine. Cube steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized and pounded, typically with a meat mallet, to create a cube-shaped pattern on the surface. This process breaks down the tough muscle fibers and creates a tender and flavorful piece of meat. Cube steak is often used in dishes like Salisbury steak, chicken-fried steak, and stews.
Country fried steak, on the other hand, is a dish that is made with cube steak. It is typically breaded and fried and served with gravy. The dish originated in the Southern United States in the early 20th century and was a way for farmers to use up the cheaper cuts of meat. Today, country fried steak is a beloved comfort food and can be found on the menus of diners and restaurants throughout the region. While cube steak and country fried steak may be different dishes, they are often used interchangeably in recipes and on menus.
Which Cut of Meat is Used for Cube Steak and Country Fried Steak?
Cube steak and country fried steak may look similar and have a similar cooking method, but they are made with different cuts of meat. Cube steak is typically made from a tougher cut of beef, such as round steak or chuck steak, that has been tenderized with a meat mallet. This process creates small indentations on the surface of the meat, giving it its characteristic cube-like pattern and making it more tender.
On the other hand, country fried steak is typically made with a more tender cut of beef, such as a sirloin or ribeye. This cut of meat is often pounded thin and then coated in a seasoned flour mixture before being fried, giving it a crispy, flavorful crust. While both types of steak are delicious, they have their own unique flavors and textures based on the cut of meat used.
The Nutritional Value of Cube Steak vs Country Fried Steak
When it comes to nutritional value, there are differences between cube steak and country fried steak. Cube steak is typically cut from the round and is a leaner cut of beef, making it a lower calorie and lower fat option. One 3-ounce serving of cube steak contains about 170 calories, 7 grams of fat, and 23 grams of protein. It is also a good source of iron and vitamin B-12.
On the other hand, country fried steak is a breaded and fried version of cube steak, which drastically changes its nutritional profile. While the breaded coating may add flavor, it also adds calories, fat, carbohydrates, and sodium. One serving of country fried steak can contain up to 550 calories, 35 grams of fat, and 1,000 milligrams of sodium. Therefore, if you’re watching your calorie or sodium intake, it is best to opt for a grilled or baked cube steak instead of the fried version.
Preparing Cube Steak and Country Fried Steak for Maximum Flavor
Preparing cube steak and country fried steak for maximum flavor is essential to ensure the best possible taste experience. It all starts with the selection of the meat. Choose fresh and high-quality beef from a reputable butcher. Tenderizing the meat before cooking is another crucial factor. Using a meat tenderizer or pounding the meat with a mallet can break down the fibers in the meat and make it more tender.
Before cooking, season the meat generously with salt, pepper, and other spices of your choice. Dredge it in flour or a mixture of flour and breadcrumbs for a crispy coating. Shallow fry or deep fry the meat in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through. Adding garlic and butter to the pan in the final minutes of frying can enhance the flavor even further. Serve immediately with your favorite sides for a delectable meal.
Popular Recipes for Cube Steak and Country Fried Steak
When it comes to popular recipes for cube steak and country fried steak, there is no shortage of delicious options. One classic recipe is Southern-style chicken-fried steak with gravy, which features a tenderized cube steak dredged in a seasoned flour mixture and fried until crispy and golden brown. The steak is then smothered in a creamy gravy made with pan drippings, milk, and flour.
Another popular recipe is the Tex-Mex-inspired steak fingers, which are essentially strips of cube steak that are breaded and fried until crispy. These are often served with a spicy dipping sauce and a side of fries or coleslaw. Other popular recipes for cube steak and country fried steak include steak sandwiches, stewed beef dishes, and even Asian-style stir-fries. No matter how you choose to cook them, these versatile cuts of meat are sure to satisfy.
Final Words
In essence, cube steak and country fried steak are not entirely the same thing, although they share many similarities. Cube steak is beef that has been tenderized, typically mechanically, whereas country fried steak is cube steak that is breaded and then fried. This difference in breading and preparation is the most significant factor that sets the two dishes apart.
That being said, the terms cube steak and country fried steak are often used interchangeably in restaurants and home cooking. While the subtle differences may not matter to some, it is important to note the distinction for those who are looking to recreate a specific dish or have dietary restrictions. Whether you prefer your steak breaded or not, both cube steak and country fried steak can be delicious comfort food dishes that are sure to satisfy.