Frites steak, often known as steak frites, is a traditional dish that masterfully combines the crunchy pleasure of French fries with the richness of a well cooked steak.
This meal, which originated in France and Belgium, is now a common sight in bistros and brasseries all over the world.
Ingredients
Ribeye or sirloin steak (about 1 inch thick)
Olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary)
Garlic cloves (smashed)
Butter
For the fries:
Russet potatoes (2 large)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Sea salt
Frites Steak Recipe
Preparing the Fries
The ideal frites have a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior. Peel the russet potatoes first, then cut them into uniform sticks that are 1/4 inch thick. To get the ideal crispiness, rinse the chopped potatoes in cold water to get rid of extra starch.
After rinsing, soak the potato sticks for at least half an hour in cool water. Because it further eliminates starch and keeps the fries from sticking together while cooking, this step is crucial. Additionally, soaking aids in creating that airy, light texture.
Drain the potatoes and use paper towels to pat dry after soaking. The secret to crispy fries is to remove moisture. For best results, let them air dry for ten to fifteen more minutes if you have the time.
Methods for Frying
You can use a heavy-bottomed saucepan or a deep fryer for frying. Heat your pot to 325°F (163°C) and add enough vegetable oil to cover it by about three inches. To keep the oil temperature constant, it is best to fry in batches.
Don’t overcrowd the pot when you add the dry potato sticks to the heated oil. They should be pale but not browned after 5 to 6 minutes of cooking. Using a slotted spoon, remove them and set them aside to drain on paper towels.
Once the initial fry is finished, raise the oil’s temperature to 375°F (190°C). In batches, add the fries back to the hot oil and cook for another two to three minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. Drain on paper towels after removing them once more. While still heated, sprinkle with sea salt right away.
Just after frying, mix your fries with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an added flavor boost. This gives the steak and fries a wonderful scent that goes well with them.
Cooking the steak
It’s time to concentrate on your steak while your fries are cooking. Using paper towels, gently dry your sirloin or ribeye. By eliminating surplus moisture, this procedure guarantees a better sear.
Add a good amount of salt and freshly ground black pepper to both sides. Without dominating it, the seasoning brings out the meat’s inherent qualities. A hefty frying pan or cast-iron skillet should be heated to a very high temperature. Coat the pan with a little olive oil.
Carefully place the steak in the skillet after the oil is shimmering. Cook without moving it for 4 to 5 minutes on one side for a medium-rare finish. This makes it possible for a lovely crust to develop. Using tongs, flip the steak, then add the fresh herbs and mashed garlic cloves to the pan.
Depending on thickness and desired doneness, cooking times can vary; for accuracy, use an instant-read thermometer; medium-rare is 130°F (54°C), while medium is 140°F (60°C).
To enhance the flavor and richness of the steak, baste it with a few tablespoons of butter during the final minute of cooking. Scoop up the butter with a spoon and pour it over your steak many times after tilting your skillet slightly so that it pools on one side.
Resting your steak
After the steak is cooked to your preference, take it out of the skillet and place it on a plate or cutting board. Let it sit for five to ten minutes after loosely covering it with aluminum foil. Every mouthful of beef is juicy and tender because resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Cutting into your steak too soon can cause the fluids to leak out onto your plate instead of staying inside each slice, so this resting time is quite important.
The Process of Plating Your Dish
Cut the rested steak into thick slices against the grain to serve your frites steak. Place them artistically on a platter with a heaping helping of crispy fries. Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top of both ingredients for a refined touch.
Serve this meal with homemade mayonnaise or aioli on the side so you can dip your fries in it. It’s a delicious touch that flawlessly balances flavor profiles.
Any dish may be elevated by its presentation; if you want to wow your guests even more, try adding edible flowers or microgreens as a garnish.
See also: Pave Potatoes
Pairing Suggestions
Frites steak goes well with a variety of drinks. The richness of the meat is ideally complemented by a robust red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, which have the body to compete with hearty flavors without being overpowering.
If beer is more your style, go for a crisp lager or Belgian brew that will refresh your palette in between bites and cut through the richness of both steak and fries.
Herbal iced tea or sparkling water with lemon might be a refreshing way to balance this substantial meal for individuals who prefer non-alcoholic options. A zesty contrast that enlivens every bite can likewise be achieved with a mild lemonade.
Variations on Frites Steak
Traditional frites steak is delicious just the way it is, but you can try a variety of variations:
Before cooking, try marinating your steak in various marinades or seasonings. For more depth, try adding smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even a little Worcestershire sauce.
Try adding chili flakes to your seasoning blend or serving with spicy aioli as a dipping sauce for people who like a little heat.
Try using other kinds of potatoes for your fries as well; sweet potatoes are a great substitute that gives your plate a pop of color and sweetness.
Adding toppings like caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms to your sliced steak before serving is another entertaining innovation that elevates this traditional dish even further.
In conclusion
This recipe perfectly captures our favorite aspects of traditional comfort food: succulent steak and crispy fries make for a memorable at-home meal. You may turn this straightforward dish into something truly remarkable by paying close attention to the preparation and cooking methods.
