Why You’ll Love This Steak Fingers Recipe
When you taste these crispy garlic pepper steak fingers, you’ll understand why they’re a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of tender steak and zesty seasonings creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
I love how easy they’re to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Each bite delivers that satisfying crunch, paired with a burst of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Whether you serve them with a dipping sauce or on their own, these steak fingers are sure to impress your family and friends. Trust me, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Ingredients of Steak Fingers
When it comes to whipping up a plate of crispy garlic pepper steak fingers, having the right ingredients is key. This recipe is all about delivering that delicious, crunchy texture along with bold flavors that you simply can’t resist.
So, let’s gather what you’ll need to make this fantastic dish. Don’t worry if you’ve never cooked steak before; I promise, it’s easier than you think. Just grab your apron and let’s get started.
Ingredients:
- 3 large tenderized round steaks
- 2 cups flour
- Seasoning salt (I recommend Lowry’s)
- Steak seasoning (McCormick’s Montreal Brand is a favorite)
- Garlic pepper seasoning (freshly ground is best)
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients a bit. First off, using tenderized round steaks is a smart move. They’re usually pretty affordable and cook up nice and tender.
The flour is essential because it gives those steak fingers that beautiful, crispy coating. And don’t skimp on the seasonings; they really elevate the dish.
If you’re like me and sometimes forget to buy fresh garlic pepper, don’t worry—using a good quality pre-mixed garlic pepper seasoning works just as well. Trust me, even the pros have those days where they forget something at the grocery store.
How to Make Steak Fingers
Before you start cooking, heat up your skillet. You want it hot enough that when you add the oil, it begins to shimmer and sizzle. An oil slick on the bottom of the pan is what we’re looking for—just enough to coat it.
Now, dip each steak strip into the flour, pressing and rolling it to make sure that the flour sticks nicely. This is the part where you can really get your hands dirty; it’s kind of fun, right?
Once they’re all coated, place the steak strips into the skillet. You should hear that delightful sizzle as they hit the hot oil. This is what we call searing, and it’s vital for locking in those flavors.
Here’s where things get a bit fancy—lightly sprinkle on your seasoning. I’m talking about that seasoning salt (Lowry’s is a solid choice) and a bit of the steak seasoning (McCormick’s Montreal is my go-to). Remember, no over-salting here; just a gentle sprinkle from your palm.
After a couple of minutes, when they start looking lightly brown and crispy, flip those bad boys over to sear the other side. Cook until they’re golden and cooked all the way through.
When they’re ready, transfer your crispy steak fingers to a platter and maybe add a little garnish of parsley if you’re feeling fancy. And don’t forget your favorite dip in the center—because what’s a steak finger without a little dunking action?
Steak Fingers Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your steak fingers, there are plenty of delicious substitutions and variations to take into account.
For a different flavor, try using chicken or pork instead of beef. You can also swap out the flour for cornstarch or gluten-free flour for a lighter, crispy texture.
Experiment with seasonings—smoked paprika or Cajun spice can add a kick! If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
Finally, serve your steak fingers with a variety of dips like spicy ranch or tangy barbecue sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your crispy garlic pepper steak fingers, keep in mind a few additional tips to enhance your cooking experience.
First, make certain your oil is hot enough; a sizzle means you’re on the right track! I also recommend using a meat thermometer to verify your steak is cooked through but still juicy.
If you want extra crunch, consider double-dipping in flour.
Finally, don’t forget to let your steak fingers rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain their juiciness.
Enjoy experimenting with different dips or garnishes to elevate your dish even more!