Country-Fried Steak and Gravy

I love this recipe, and so does my husband.

• Ready In: 27 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 4  cube steaks (about 4 ounce each)
• 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1⁄8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3⁄4 cup buttermilk
• 1  cup  finely crushed  saltine crackers, about 25 crackers
• 3  tablespoons vegetable shortening (like crisco)
• 1 (10 3/4ounce) can  cream of mushroom soup
• 1  cup milk

Directions

1. If necessary, pound cubed steaks to 1/4-inch thickness between 2 sheets of plastic wrap, using a meat pounder or rolling pin.
2. Set aside.
3. Combine flour and pepper in a shallow dish.
4. Pour buttermilk into a second dish.
5. Spread crushed crackers on a plate.
6. Dredge steaks, one at a time, in seasoned flour.
7. Dip in buttermilk.
8. Then in crushed crackers, to coat thoroughly, pressing with fingertips to adhere.
9. Melt shortening in 12-inch skillet over medium heat.
10. Add steaks.
11. Cook 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
12. Remove to paper towel-lined platter and keep warm.
13. Stir mushroom soup and milk into drippings in skillet.
14. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
15. Remove from heat.
16. Serve steaks accompanied by gravy.