Steak Frites with Herb-Infused Butter and Crispy Fries 🍽️🥩🍟
Ingredients:
- 2 New York strip steaks
- Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 8 cloves garlic, smashed
- Water
- Frying oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
- 3 russet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1/4-inch thick sticks
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. **Prep the Steaks:** Begin by allowing the New York strip steaks to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook evenly. Generously season both sides of the steaks with salt and black pepper.
2. **Sear the Steaks:** In a medium-sized skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmers, carefully place the seasoned steaks in the skillet. Sear them on all sides until a rich, golden-brown crust forms, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
3. **Add Butter and Aromatics:** Reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter, smashed garlic cloves, and the fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs to the skillet. As the butter melts, use a spoon to continuously baste the steaks with the melted herb-infused butter while they cook. Monitor the internal temperature according to your preference:
- Medium Rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
- Medium Well: 150°F (66°C)
4. **Rest the Steaks:** Once your steaks have reached the desired temperature, transfer them to a plate, tenting them with foil to keep warm. Let them rest while you prepare the frites.
5. **Prep the Potatoes:** In a bowl, soak the freshly cut russet potato sticks in cold water for approximately 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, ensuring crispier fries. After soaking, drain the potatoes and meticulously pat them dry with a paper towel.
6. **Fry the Potatoes:** Heat about 2 inches of your preferred frying oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in small batches for about 8-10 minutes, until they turn golden and tender. Once cooked, drain them on a paper towel-lined plate, seasoning immediately with salt and pepper.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Plate the juicy steak alongside the crispy frites. For an extra touch, consider serving with a side of garlic aioli, tangy mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce.
8. **Pro Tips:**
- For added flavor, use a spoon to continuously pour the melted herb-infused butter over the steaks during cooking.
- For extra crispy fries, try double-frying: first fry the potatoes at a lower temperature (300°F) until soft, then a second time at 375°F to achieve the perfect crunch.
- Add a sprig of sage or more thyme to the oil for an aromatic twist while frying.
Enjoy the delightful experience of Steak Frites, bringing the French bistro charm directly to your dining table!