Why the Finger Steak Is a Must-make
If you’ve never tried finger steaks, you’re missing out on a delicious experience that’s both crispy and flavorful.
These tasty morsels are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a casual dinner or game day. I love how easy they’re to prepare and fry up in just a few minutes, making them a great option when I’m short on time.
The combination of tender beef and a golden, crunchy coating keeps me coming back for more. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile; you can pair them with your favorite dipping sauces or serve them as a fun appetizer.
Trust me, you’ll crave them!
Ingredients of Finger Steak
When it comes to whipping up something delicious and satisfying, finger steak is a fantastic choice. These crispy strips of beef aren’t only easy to make, but they also bring a delightful crunch that makes them super addictive. I mean, who can resist a perfectly cooked piece of steak wrapped in a crispy coating?
If you’re gearing up to impress your friends or just want a tasty snack, you’ll need to gather some ingredients first. Let’s check out what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients for Finger Steak:
- 1 lb boneless sirloin steak
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/4 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
- Oil (for frying)
Now, while the ingredient list is pretty straightforward, let’s talk about a few things to keep in mind. First, the type of steak you choose can really make a difference. Boneless sirloin is great because it’s tender and has good flavor, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you could try using flank steak or another cut.
Just remember, the thinner you slice the steak, the quicker it will cook, which is key to achieving that crispy texture. And don’t skimp on the chilling time—letting the coated steak sit in the fridge for a couple of hours really helps the batter adhere better, leading to that crunchy goodness we all crave.
How to Make Finger Steak
Alright, let’s plunge into the process of making these crispy garlic finger steaks! First off, grab that 1 lb of boneless sirloin steak and slice it into strips. Don’t stress about making them perfect; as long as they’re not too thick, you’re golden. Think about the size of your fingers (hence the name), and aim for pieces that are about that width.
Now, here comes the fun part—let’s get the batter ready. In a bowl, beat together 1 egg and 1 cup of milk until they’re well combined. It’s like a mini workout for your wrist, but trust me—it’ll be worth it.
Next, it’s time to add the dry ingredients. Into that egg mixture, whisk in 1 1/4 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/8 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon of onion powder. Mix it all together until it’s smooth. No lumps, please! You want that batter to cling to your steak strips like a best friend on a rollercoaster.
Now, toss those steak strips into the batter and coat them well. Once they’re all mixed up, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. I know, waiting is the hardest part, but this chill time is essential for a crispy outcome.
When you’re finally ready to fry, heat up some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that when you drop a little batter in, it sizzles. Carefully place your coated steak strips into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan—give them space to breathe, just like you need on a crowded subway.
Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a lovely light brown. As they cook, resist the urge to poke and prod at them; they need that stillness to get crispy! Once they’re done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off the excess oil.
And there you have it—crispy garlic finger steaks that are sure to make your taste buds dance! Enjoy them solo or with your favorite dipping sauce; either way, they’re bound to be a hit.
Finger Steak Substitutions & Variations
There are plenty of tasty substitutions and variations you can try to make finger steaks even more exciting. For a twist, swap the sirloin for chicken tenders or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
You can also experiment with different coatings—try panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or crushed cornflakes for a unique texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick.
For a milder flavor, consider using buttermilk instead of regular milk. Finally, don’t hesitate to mix in herbs like parsley or cilantro to add freshness to the batter.
Enjoy these fun variations!
What to Serve with Finger Steak
Serving finger steaks can elevate your meal experience, and there are several delicious sides to contemplate.
I love pairing them with crispy French fries or homemade potato wedges for that classic comfort food vibe. A revitalizing coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the steak.
You can’t go wrong with garlic bread, either—it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the meal beautifully.
Finally, dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli can enhance the flavor and make your finger steak experience even more delightful!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing crispy garlic finger steaks, I’ve found a few tips that can really enhance the final result.
First, make certain your oil is hot enough before frying; this guarantees a crispy exterior. I also recommend letting the coated steak strips chill for at least two hours—this helps the batter adhere better.
Don’t skip the garlic powder; it makes a huge difference in flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
Finally, serve them hot right out of the oil for the best texture. Enjoy your delicious creation!