Steak frites is a beloved classic that brings together the rich flavors of perfectly cooked steak and crispy golden fries in a delightful pairing. Originating from France, this dish has made its way into restaurants and homes around the world. The beauty of the Steak Frites recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its ability to impress guests or satisfy your cravings on a busy weeknight. With just a few quality ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of making an unforgettable steak frites that’s bursting with flavor. So whether you’re planning a special dinner or just want to elevate your weeknight meals, this recipe is your ticket to culinary success.
Why You’ll Love This Steak Frites Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Steak Frites Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ribeye Steak: A well-marbled ribeye provides excellent flavor and tenderness; choose cuts about one inch thick for best results
- Salt and Pepper: Use kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to season the steak generously before cooking
- Vegetable Oil: High smoke point oil like canola or grapeseed is ideal for searing the steak without burning
- Fresh Herbs (optional): Fresh thyme or rosemary can enhance the aroma of your dish when added during cooking
For the Fries:
- Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for frying due to their high starch content; cut them into even-sized sticks for uniform cooking
- Additional Salt: To season the fries after frying; aim for flaky sea salt for an extra touch of flavor
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Steak Frites Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and tools together so you can streamline the cooking process. Wash the potatoes thoroughly if using whole ones.
Step 2: Cut Potatoes
Cut your russet potatoes into even-sized sticks about half an inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch.
Step 3: Soak Potatoes
Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least thirty minutes; this helps achieve maximum crispiness when frying.
Step 4: Preheat Oil
In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil so that the fries can float freely while cooking.
Step 5: Cook Fries
Once the oil is ready, carefully add the soaked potato sticks in batches. Fry them until golden brown and crispy, which should take about four to six minutes per batch.
Step 6: Season and Drain Fries
Remove the fries from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. While still hot, sprinkle with salt.
Step 7: Cook Steak
Season both sides of your ribeye steak with salt and pepper. In a hot skillet with a little vegetable oil over medium-high heat, cook each side for about four minutes for medium-rare doneness.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Let your cooked steak rest for five minutes before slicing it against the grain. Transfer to plates alongside your crispy fries for a beautiful presentation.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Crispy Fries Tip: For extra crispiness, consider double frying your potatoes—fry first at lower temperatures then again at higher temperatures
How to Serve Steak Frites Recipe
This Steak Frites Recipe is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the steak marinade up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine your ingredients, marinate the steak, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Storing: Leftover steak can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. For fries, store them separately in a sealed bag to maintain their texture.
- Reheating: To reheat steak, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat for about five minutes per side. For fries, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for approximately ten minutes until they are crispy again.
Suggestions for Steak Frites Recipe
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
Selecting the perfect cut of steak is crucial for your Steak Frites Recipe. Opt for cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, as these provide rich flavor and tenderness. Avoid tough cuts such as flank or round steak, which can lead to a chewy texture. Ensure your steak is well-marbled; the intramuscular fat enhances flavor and juiciness. Remember to allow your steak to come to room temperature before cooking, as this promotes even cooking throughout. If you skip this step, you may end up with an undercooked center.
Seasoning Your Steak Properly
Proper seasoning elevates any Steak Frites Recipe. Use coarse sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the meat. Avoid over-seasoning, as it can mask the rich taste of your steak. For a slight twist, consider adding garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Apply salt at least 30 minutes before cooking; this allows it to penetrate the meat effectively. Skipping this step could result in bland flavors that do not satisfy your palate.
Cooking Temperature Matters
Understanding cooking temperatures is vital in achieving the ideal Steak Frites Recipe. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium. Overcooking will lead to a dry steak, while undercooking can pose health risks. Preheat your skillet or grill adequately; a hot surface sears the meat beautifully and locks in juices. If you place the steak on a cold surface, it will cook unevenly, resulting in a disappointing dish.
The Importance of Resting Time
Resting is often overlooked but crucial in a successful Steak Frites Recipe. Letting your cooked steak rest for about 5-10 minutes allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing flavor and tenderness. Cutting into it too soon can cause all those flavorful juices to run out, leading to dryness. Do not cover it tightly during resting; instead, loosely tent it with foil to maintain warmth without steaming it further.
FAQs
What sides pair well with Steak Frites?
When preparing a Steak Frites Recipe, traditional sides include crispy French fries, which complement the savory beef beautifully. You might also consider serving a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for freshness. Other options include sautéed green beans or roasted vegetables that add color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish’s flavor profile.
Can I make my fries from scratch?
Absolutely! Making fries from scratch enhances your Steak Frites Recipe significantly. Start by choosing starchy potatoes like Russets for optimal crispiness. Cut them into uniform strips and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Dry them thoroughly before frying twice: once at a lower temperature (about 325°F) until tender, then at higher heat (375°F) until golden brown and crispy.
What sauces work best with Steak Frites?
A variety of sauces can elevate your Steak Frites Recipe significantly. Classic options include béarnaise sauce or chimichurri for added zest and richness. A simple garlic butter sauce also complements the flavors beautifully without overwhelming them. Consider serving ketchup or aioli as dipping options for your fries; both options bring out different aspects of the dish.
How do I store leftovers from my Steak Frites recipe?
To store leftovers from your Steak Frites Recipe properly, let both steak and fries cool completely before placing them in airtight containers. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain safety and quality. Consume within three days for best results; reheat gently in an oven rather than a microwave to preserve texture in both components.
Conclusion for Steak Frites Recipe
In summary, creating an exceptional Steak Frites Recipe involves selecting the right cut of meat, seasoning correctly, understanding cooking temperatures, and allowing ample resting time after cooking. These steps ensure that you achieve a juicy steak paired perfectly with crispy fries—a classic culinary delight! By avoiding common pitfalls like using tough cuts or skipping seasoning steps, you set up your dish for success every time you cook it! Enjoy experimenting with various side dishes and sauces to personalize this timeless recipe further!
Steak Frites Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Steak Frites is a classic French dish that beautifully combines tender, juicy ribeye steak with crispy golden fries, creating a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 Ribeye Steak (about 1 inch thick)
- Kosher Salt
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
- Vegetable Oil (for frying)
- 2 Russet Potatoes
- Fresh Herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and cut the russet potatoes into half-inch sticks. Soak them in cold water for 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the soaked potato sticks in batches for 4-6 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
- Season the ribeye steak generously with salt and pepper. Cook in a hot skillet with oil for about 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- Let the cooked steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve alongside crispy fries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 750
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 50g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Leave a Comment