Steak Frites

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Introduction

Steak Frites is the ultimate French comfort food, combining two timeless favorites: a perfectly seared steak and crispy, golden French fries. This dish is all about simplicity, allowing the rich, savory flavors of the beef to shine, with the fries offering a satisfying crunch as the perfect accompaniment. Whether you’re dining in a cozy French bistro or preparing it at home, Steak Frites provides a hearty, indulgent meal that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

The first time I made Steak Frites, I was amazed at how effortlessly elegant it felt. Cooking the steak to the perfect level of doneness and pairing it with homemade fries made me realize how something so simple could be so satisfying. The addition of a rich, velvety béarnaise or garlic butter sauce took it to the next level, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

What I love most about Steak Frites is its versatility. You can customize the steak with your favorite seasoning or rub, and choose from a variety of dipping sauces, from tangy béarnaise to creamy garlic butter. It’s the kind of dish that never goes out of style, perfect for a special dinner, a celebratory occasion, or even a cozy weeknight meal. No matter how you serve it, this French classic is sure to impress.

Perfect for:

  • Romantic dinners
  • Casual family meals
  • Special occasions
  • Weeknight indulgence
  • Meat lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Steak Frites will become a favorite at your table:

  • Tender, Juicy Steak: A well-cooked steak, seasoned just right, is the star of the dish, with a beautiful, savory crust and tender, flavorful interior.
  • Crispy Fries: Homemade French fries add the perfect crunch to balance the steak’s tenderness.
  • Simple Yet Elegant: With just a few ingredients, this dish is easy to prepare but feels indulgent and fancy.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a special meal, Steak Frites never disappoints.
  • Customizable: You can switch up the sauces or seasonings to suit your taste—think béarnaise, garlic butter, or even a chimichurri drizzle.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 2 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 600-700 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 45g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 30g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Steak Frites:

  • 2 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks (8 oz each)
  • 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking fries)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking steak)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying fries)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 clove garlic, smashed (optional for steak)
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional for steak)
  • Optional: Béarnaise sauce or garlic butter for serving

Ingredient Highlights

  • Steak: Ribeye or sirloin are ideal cuts for this dish, known for their tenderness and flavor.
  • Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes are perfect for frying, yielding crispy fries.
  • Olive Oil and Butter: A combination of these fats creates the perfect cooking medium for both the fries and steak.
  • Fresh Herbs: Herbs like rosemary or thyme add a burst of aromatic flavor when cooked with the steak.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Fries:

  1. Soak the Potatoes: Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispier fries.
  2. Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Fry the Fries: Fry the potatoes in batches for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
  4. Season the Fries: Season with salt immediately after frying. Keep warm in a low oven if necessary.

Prepare the Steak:

  1. Season the Steak: Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the steaks to the pan.
  3. Cook the Steak: Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your preferred level of doneness. Add garlic and fresh herbs to the pan halfway through cooking for extra flavor.
  4. Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the steak tender.

Serve the Dish:

  1. Plate the Steak and Fries: Slice the steak against the grain and arrange on a plate. Add a generous portion of fries alongside the steak.
  2. Optional Sauce: Top with béarnaise sauce, garlic butter, or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

How to Serve

Steak Frites is traditionally served with simple accompaniments, but feel free to get creative with these options:

  • With a Side Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the steak and fries.
  • With Béarnaise Sauce: The creamy, tangy béarnaise sauce is a classic pairing for steak.
  • With Garlic Butter: For an extra indulgence, top the steak with a dollop of garlic herb butter.
  • Add Grilled Vegetables: Serve with grilled asparagus or roasted mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
  • Pair with Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, pairs perfectly with this rich dish.

Additional Tips

  • Rest the Steak: Always let the steak rest after cooking to retain its juices and improve tenderness.
  • Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the potatoes. Fry in batches for even crisping.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect steak doneness, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
  • Customize the Fries: Experiment with seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor on the fries.
  • Use a Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet retains heat well and helps achieve a nice sear on the steak.

Recipe Variations

  1. Steak with Peppercorn Sauce: Add a rich peppercorn sauce for extra flavor.
  2. Steak Frites with Chimichurri: Use an herby chimichurri sauce for a zesty, South American twist.
  3. Sweet Potato Fries: Swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a healthier variation.
  4. Garlic Parmesan Fries: Toss the fries in garlic butter and grated Parmesan for a savory treat.
  5. Steak with Blue Cheese Butter: Add crumbled blue cheese to the garlic butter for a creamy, tangy topping.
  6. Herb-Crusted Steak: Coat the steak in a mixture of fresh herbs before searing for extra aromatic flavor.
  7. Steak Frites with Truffle Oil: Drizzle fries with truffle oil for a gourmet touch.
  8. Loaded Fries: Top the fries with cheese, bacon, and scallions for a decadent variation.
  9. Steak Frites with Mushroom Sauce: Serve with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce for an earthy addition.
  10. Spicy Fries: Add chili powder or cayenne to the fries for a spicy kick.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: It’s best to freeze fries before frying. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry directly from frozen.
  • Storage: Leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results. Fries are best fresh, but can be stored in the fridge and reheated in the oven to restore some crispiness.

Special Equipment

  • Cast Iron Skillet: A heavy pan helps sear the steak beautifully.
  • Deep Fryer or Large Pot: Essential for frying the fries to crispy perfection.
  • Meat Thermometer: Ensures that your steak is cooked to the perfect level of doneness.
  • Sharp Knife: For slicing the steak against the grain.
  • Slotted Spoon: Used for removing fries from the oil.

FAQ

  1. Can I make Steak Frites ahead of time?
    You can prepare the fries ahead of time and reheat them in the oven. Steak should be cooked fresh for best results.
  2. What’s the best steak for this recipe?
    Ribeye and sirloin are both excellent options, but you can also use filet mignon for a more tender cut.
  3. Can I bake the fries instead of frying?
    Yes, you can bake the fries at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a lighter version.
  4. How do I know when the steak is done?
    Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
  5. Can I use frozen fries?
    Frozen fries can work in a pinch, but fresh potatoes yield the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Steak Frites is the perfect blend of indulgence and simplicity, offering a satisfying meal that combines two classics: juicy, tender steak and crispy, golden fries. With just a few key ingredients and techniques, you can create a dish that feels luxurious yet approachable. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or enjoying a comforting weeknight treat, Steak Frites is sure to impress and delight with every bite.

Cooked to your preferred steak doneness and paired with perfectly crispy fries, this dish captures the essence of a French bistro meal right at home. A side of fresh herbs or a rich sauce, like béarnaise or garlic butter, takes it to the next level.

I can’t wait to see your Steak Frites creations! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you bring this classic to life. Don’t forget to share your own twists and tips in the comments. Happy cooking!

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