The Perfect Steak Frites Recipe – A Classic French Delight

Steak Frites is the quintessential French bistro dish that epitomizes simplicity and elegance. Tender, juicy steak paired with crispy, golden French fries and finished with a generous dollop of garlic herb butter is nothing short of culinary perfection. This dish is easy to make at home, bringing the charm of Parisian cafes straight to your dining table.

Whether for a cozy dinner or a celebratory feast, Steak Frites delivers both flavor and sophistication.

Why Steak Frites is the Ultimate Comfort Food

Steak Frites is a timeless combination of rich flavors and contrasting textures. The succulent steak, seared to perfection, harmonizes beautifully with crispy fries seasoned with fragrant rosemary and lemon zest. A lavish drizzle of garlic herb butter takes the dish to the next level, melting over the steak and enhancing its savory appeal.

Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or weekend indulgence, Steak Frites is a dish that speaks to both luxury and comfort.

Ingredients

Butter

• 300 ml double cream
• 1 bulb of garlic
• 1 sprig of thyme, finely chopped
• Large bunch of parsley, finely chopped (stalks removed)

French Fries

• 10 large russet potatoes (King Edward or Maris Piper are excellent alternatives)
• 3 tbsp rosemary, finely chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 3 tbsp kosher/flaky salt
• 1 litre vegetable oil

Steak

• 1 ribeye steak
• 2 cloves of garlic, peeled
• 1 small sprig of thyme
• Small knob of butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Herb Butter

1. Pour the double cream into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand or stand mixer, whisk the cream until it separates into butter and buttermilk. Strain and reserve the butter.
2. Peel the garlic bulb, mince, and sauté gently until golden and fragrant. Allow it to cool.
3. Mix the softened butter with chopped parsley, thyme, and the cooled garlic. Shape into a log, wrap in cling film, and refrigerate until firm.

Step 2: Make the French Fries

1. Peel and slice the potatoes into thin fries (about ¼ inch thick). Soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
2. Drain and pat the potatoes dry thoroughly.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot to 160°C (320°F). Fry the potatoes in batches for 5-6 minutes until soft but not browned. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Increase the oil temperature to 190°C (375°F) and fry the potatoes again until golden and crispy (3-4 minutes). Drain, then toss with rosemary, lemon zest, and salt.

Step 3: Cook the Ribeye Steak

1. Season the ribeye steak generously with salt and pepper. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over high heat. Add a small knob of butter, garlic cloves, and thyme sprig.
3. Place the steak in the hot pan and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, basting with melted butter as it cooks. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 54°C (130°F). Adjust the cooking time according to your preferred doneness.
4. Rest the steak for 5-10 minutes under foil to allow the juices to redistribute.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Slice the steak and arrange it on a plate alongside a generous portion of crispy fries.
2. Top the steak with a slice of chilled herb butter, allowing it to melt over the warm meat.
3. Serve immediately with a side of Dijon mustard or aioli for dipping the fries.

Pro Tips for Perfect Steak Frites

• Double Fry for Crispiness: Frying the potatoes twice ensures extra crispy fries with a soft interior.
• High-Quality Ribeye: Choose well-marbled ribeye steak for the juiciest and most flavorful results.
• Resting the Steak: Resting allows the steak to retain its juices, resulting in a tender bite.
• Garlic Butter Boost: Make extra garlic herb butter and use it on grilled vegetables or bread for added flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 650
• Fat: 45g
• Carbs: 40g
• Protein: 38g
• Sodium: 1200mg

Health Concerns

• High in Saturated Fat: This dish is rich in butter and steak, contributing to saturated fat intake. Enjoy in moderation.
• Caloric Density: Steak Frites is a hearty, indulgent dish. Consider smaller portions if watching calorie intake.
• Sodium Levels: Adjust salt according to dietary needs to manage sodium intake.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Classic and indulgent French bistro experience at home
• Simple ingredients, big flavors
• Easily customizable with different steak cuts or seasoning

Cons:

• High in fat and calories
• Requires frying, which can be time-consuming and messy
• Not ideal for vegan or vegetarian diets

FAQs

What cut of steak is best for Steak Frites?
Ribeye is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness, but sirloin or filet mignon also work well.

Can I bake the fries instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the fries at 220°C (425°F) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for crispiness.

How long should I rest the steak?
Rest the steak for at least 5 minutes, but no longer than 10 minutes to maintain warmth.

Can I use frozen fries?
Yes, but homemade fries provide a superior texture and flavor.

What other seasonings can I use for the fries?
Paprika, garlic powder, or truffle oil can add unique flavors to your fries.

Conclusion

Steak Frites is the ultimate indulgence for steak lovers, blending rich flavors with crispy fries and luscious garlic herb butter. It’s a dish that impresses every time, offering the perfect balance of simplicity and decadence. Enjoy this French classic in the comfort of your home!

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