Homestyle Chicken Fried Steak

Step 1 -In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

Step 2 -Gradually add 3 tablespoons of the flour to the melted butter, while whisking, until combined, golden, and the raw flour smell disappears.

Step 3 -Gradually add the stock and 1 1/2 cups of the milk to the butter-flour mixture, while whisking, until combined and no lumps remain.

Step 4 -Add the extra salt, the extra pepper, and the extra cayenne and stir to combine.

Step 5 -Simmer the gravy until it has thickened.

Step 6 -Set the gravy aside and keep it warm.

Step 7 -In a skillet over medium-high heat, add 1/4 inch of the oil and heat to 350 degrees F.

Step 8 -In a shallow bowl, add the egg, the remaining milk, and the hot sauce and whisk to combine.

Step 9 -On a rimmed plate, add the remaining flour, 2 teaspoons of the salt, 1/2 teaspoon of the pepper, the garlic powder, the paprika, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of the cayenne and whisk gently to combine.

Step 10 -Pat the cube steaks dry.

Step 11 -Season the cube steaks with the extra salt and the extra pepper.

Step 12 -Dredge the steaks in the flour mixture, coating them on both sides.

Step 13 -Dredge the steaks in the milk mixture, flipping to coat both sides.

Step 14 -Add the steaks back to the flour mixture, coating them on both sides.

Step 15 -Add the coated steaks to the hot oil and fry, while turning once, until crispy, golden-brown, and the meat reaches an internal temperature of 135 degrees F for medium-rare, about 3-4 minutes per side. Make sure to work in batches to avoid crowding.

Step 16 -Transfer the cooked steaks to a wire rack to drain.

Step 17 -Serve the chicken fried steaks topped with the gravy.