Description
Steak Frites combines perfectly seared steak with crispy golden fries and a luscious béarnaise sauce. This French classic is indulgent, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to recreate in your kitchen. Treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Fries:
- 4 russet potatoes
- Neutral oil (e.g., canola), enough for frying
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional), for garnish
For the Steak:
- 2–4 ribeye steaks
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Béarnaise Sauce:
- 1 shallot, finely minced
- 2 ½ tsp red wine vinegar
- 2 ½ tsp white wine
- 1 ½ tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped
- 1 tsp dried tarragon
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 2 squirts Tabasco sauce
- ¼ tsp white pepper
- 1–2 egg yolks
- 8 oz butter, melted
Instructions
Part 1: Fries
- Prep the Potatoes:
- Peel and cut potatoes into ¼-inch sticks. Soak in ice water for at least 2 hours to remove excess starch.
- First Fry:
- Heat oil to 275°F. Pat potatoes dry and fry in batches for 5–6 minutes. Drain on paper towels and freeze for 30–45 minutes.
- Second Fry:
- Heat oil to 375°F. Fry potatoes again until golden and crispy (2–4 minutes). Sprinkle with salt and garnish with parsley, if desired.
Part 2: Steak
- Prepare the Steaks:
- Season steaks generously with salt and refrigerate for 1 hour to dry brine. Bring to room temperature before cooking.
- Sear the Steaks:
- Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat. Pat steaks dry and sear for 3 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time for doneness. Let steaks rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Part 3: Béarnaise Sauce
- Cook Aromatics:
- Combine shallot, red wine vinegar, white wine, fresh and dried tarragon, and chives in a skillet. Cook over medium heat until liquid reduces completely. Cool slightly.
- Whisk the Egg Yolks:
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with 2 tbsp melted butter, the cooked aromatics, white pepper, and Tabasco.
- Double Boiler Method:
- Place the bowl over a simmering pot of water. Whisk until yolks thicken and turn pale yellow (2 minutes).
- Emulsify:
- Slowly drizzle in remaining melted butter while whisking until sauce is smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Dish
- Plate steak slices on one side and fries on the other. Drizzle béarnaise sauce over the steak or serve on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh chives if desired.
Notes
- For crispy fries, ensure the potatoes are thoroughly dried before frying.
- The béarnaise sauce requires constant whisking to prevent scrambling the eggs.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches your preferred doneness: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-seared, deep-fried
- Cuisine: French