If you’re in the mood for a truly delectable treat, look no further than steak frites! This classic French dish is a delightful combination of juicy steak, crispy fries, and a mouthwatering compound butter. Whether you’re a fan of New York Strip steak or prefer the rich flavor of hanger steak, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab a glass of wine or your favorite cocktail, and get ready to indulge in a meal that is both elegant and comforting.
What Makes Steak Frites So Special?
Steak frites is a brasserie-style dish that has stood the test of time. It features perfectly cooked steak topped with a flavorful compound herb butter, served alongside crispy french fries. While the origin of this dish may be a topic of debate (some claim it’s French, others say it’s Belgian), one thing is certain—it’s a crowd-pleaser. The golden-brown steak pairs beautifully with a generous portion of fries, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
How to Create the Perfect Steak Frites
To make the best steak frites, it’s important to pay attention to each element of the dish. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a truly memorable meal:
Step 1: Prepare the Butter and Onions
If you’re making homemade compound butter, it’s a good idea to prepare it in advance. This way, the flavors will have time to develop, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, consider adding sautéed mushrooms and onions to elevate the flavors and provide a delicious vegetable side.
Step 2: Cook the Fries
While you have the option to make your own fries from scratch, there’s no shame in using frozen fries for convenience. The key is to ensure that your fries are super crispy, allowing them to soak up the savory juices and butter from the steak. Whether you choose standard fries, shoestring fries, or even tater tots, make sure they complement the steak perfectly.
Step 3: Season and Cook the Steak
Season your steak with kosher salt, black pepper, and your homemade steak seasoning for an extra burst of flavor. To achieve the perfect medium-rare steak, pan-fry it in a well-seasoned cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Patting the steak dry before cooking will help prevent excess moisture and promote better browning. Don’t worry about letting the steak come to room temperature—it’s not necessary and can take too long. Remember to let the steak rest for a few moments before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and maximize the tenderness.
Step 4: Plate and Serve
Now comes the fun part—plating and serving your masterpiece. Consider layering the fries, steak, and compound butter for an elegant presentation. Alternatively, you can slice the steak before serving if you prefer individual portions. Whichever way you choose, the end result will be an irresistible tower of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
The Perfect Accompaniments
While steak frites can be enjoyed on its own, adding a touch of greens to your meal can take it to the next level. Consider pairing your dish with a delicious baked kale gratin, red wine vinegar broccolini, cheesy squash casserole, or a refreshing pickled asparagus salad. These side dishes will provide a perfect balance to the rich and savory flavors of the steak and fries.
Get Creative with Variations
Steak frites is a versatile dish that lends itself to various flavor combinations. For an extra special touch, try using truffle butter or one of your favorite flavored butters. A melted herb garlic butter with a hint of lemon can also add a burst of freshness. Don’t forget to garnish your dish with chopped parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for an extra layer of flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, explore classic French sauces like peppercorn au poivre sauce, beurre blanc, or even hollandaise sauce.
Choose the Right Cut of Beef
When it comes to steak frites, choosing the right cut of beef is crucial. While strip steak is a popular choice, you can also opt for filet mignon, rib eye, or sirloin. The key is to select a tender cut that only requires a quick sear, avoiding tougher cuts that require slow cooking. This will ensure that your steak is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
Make Ahead and Reheating Tips
To make your cooking process more efficient, prepare the mushrooms, garlic, and compound butter ahead of time. This way, you can simply heat them up in the same skillet you used for cooking the steak while it rests. Maitre d’hotel butter can also be made in advance and kept in the refrigerator for future use. However, for the best dining experience, enjoy your steak and fries fresh from the oven, air fryer, or fryer. If you’re making multiple steaks and fries, keep them warm in the oven while preparing them in batches.
Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure with steak frites? Treat yourself to this flavorful and satisfying dish—it’s quick and easy to make, yet it feels like a gourmet indulgence. So why not gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and savor each bite of the deliciousness that is steak frites? For more inspiration and recipes, check out Hook’d Up Bar and Grill, a fantastic destination for unforgettable dining experiences.