Ah, Steak Frites! Just saying the name gets my mouth watering! This dish has a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of my first trip to Paris. Picture this: I’m sitting at a charming bistro, the air filled with the aroma of sizzling beef and crispy fries. With the Eiffel Tower as my backdrop, I indulged in the most glorious plate of steak frites, and from that day on, it became one of my go-to comfort meals at home!
Steak frites is really the epitome of simple luxury for me—juicy steak cooked to perfection, coupled with crispy fries that are just impossible to resist. Honestly, it’s the kind of dish that feels fancy yet is super fun to make at home. Whether it’s a casual date night or a special occasion, this recipe will surely impress!
What’s in Steak Frites?
Let me break down the ingredients for you:
Steak: Choosing the right cut of meat is key. I usually go for a ribeye or flank steak for their rich flavor and tenderness. If you can find grass-fed options, even better! They’re generally considered more flavorful.
Potatoes: You can’t have Steak Frites without the frites! A starchy variety like Russets works fabulously for crispy fries. However, Yukon Golds are great too—they give a creamy inside while staying crispy on the outside.
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for frying the potatoes. High-quality olive oil adds flavor and a bit of richness to the dish. If you want to keep it traditional, you can use duck fat for frying, which is truly decadent!
Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of garlic, parsley, or thyme brings everything together beautifully. They add freshness and elevate the dish.
Butter: A little pat of butter melted over the steak right before serving takes it to the next level. Trust me on this!
Is Steak Frites Good for You?
Well, it depends on perspective, but there are definitely health benefits you can enjoy!
Steak: It’s a fantastic source of protein and iron, essential for muscle growth and energy. Just be cautious about portions, especially if you’re watching your saturated fat intake.
Potatoes: While fries aren’t exactly the picture of health when deep-fried, making them in moderation and using fresh potatoes gives you vitamins and fiber which are good for overall digestion.
Of course, the frying process can add more calories, but indulging now and then is all part of the fun.
Ingredients List
– 2 ribeye or flank steaks (about 1 pound each)
– 4 medium Russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold)
– 1/4 cup high-quality olive oil (plus more for steak seasoning)
– Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of butter (for a finishing touch)
*Serves 4*
How to Make Steak Frites?
1. **Prep your fries:** Start by peeling and cutting your potatoes into fries. I usually aim for a 1/4-inch thickness. Soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes to get rid of excess starch—trust me, this step makes a difference.
2. **Par-cook the fries:** In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your soaked fries and cook for about 5 minutes until barely tender. Drain and let them steam dry for a few minutes.
3. **Heat the oil:** While the fries dry, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep pot over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that a potato fry sizzles when added.
4. **Fry the potatoes:** Fry the par-cooked fries in batches until they’re golden brown and crispy—about 3 to 4 minutes per batch. Drain them on paper towels and sprinkle with salt immediately.
5. **Cook the steak:** Season your steaks generously with salt and pepper. In a hot skillet, sear your steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare (or adjust to your preference). Use a meat thermometer if that helps you; 130°F is what you’re aiming for.
6. **Add butter:** In the final minute of cooking, drop in the butter and fresh herbs. Let the melted butter coat the steak for a rich flavor.
7. **Rest and slice:** Remove the steaks from the heat and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those delicious juices inside.
8. **Serve and enjoy:** Plate your steak and a generous portion of frites, perhaps with a sprinkle of extra herbs on top. Dig in and savor each bite!
Elevate the Experience
If you’re looking to add a bit more flair to your Steak Frites, consider pairing it with a homemade aioli for dipping your fries or a fresh salad on the side. A side of sautéed mushrooms or grilled asparagus can also complement your meal beautifully. Don’t forget to enjoy it with a nice glass of red wine—it’s practically mandatory!
I truly hope you give this recipe a try! It’s one of those meals that brings joy and satisfaction with every bite. I’d love to hear how it turns out, so share your experience with me! Your kitchen is about to become your new favorite restaurant!