Steak Frites & Bearnaise: An Incredible Essential Recipe

Steak Frites & Bearnaise is an incredible culinary delight that combines tender steak, crispy fries, and a rich, buttery sauce. This classic French dish evokes the essence of bistro dining, bringing elegance and simplicity together in one plate. With its roots in French cuisine, Steak Frites offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that makes it a favorite across the globe.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly cooked steak, bursting with flavor, paired seamlessly with golden fries and elevated by the luscious Bearnaise sauce. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of indulgence and comfort.

If you've ever experienced the joy of a French bistro, you understand why this dish holds a special place in culinary hearts. Preparing Steak Frites & Bearnaise at home can transform any dinner into a splendid occasion. In this guide, we will explore why this recipe is irresistible, how to prepare it, and tips for serving it beautifully.

So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of Steak Frites & Bearnaise!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating this incredible dish doesn’t take too long. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:

• Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 50-55 minutes

This timeframe is perfect for preparing an impressive meal on a weeknight or for entertaining guests without stress.

Ingredients

• For the Steak:
• 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1 inch thick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

• For the Frites:
• 2 large russet potatoes
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Salt, to taste

• For the Bearnaise Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons dry white wine
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
• Salt and white pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Steak Frites & Bearnaise may seem daunting, but following these steps will lead you to an amazing dish:

Preparing the Frites:

1. Cut the Potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes and slice them into thin strips.
2. Soak the Potatoes: Place the potato strips in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
3. Dry the Potatoes: Drain and thoroughly dry the potatoes with a clean kitchen towel.
4. Heat the Oil: In a deep pot or fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the Potatoes: Fry the potatoes in batches until golden and crispy, about 5–7 minutes per batch.
6. Drain and Season: Remove the frites from the oil and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt while warm.

Cooking the Steak:

1. Season the Steak: Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the Steak: Add the steak to the hot pan and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the desired doneness.
4. Add Butter: In the last few minutes of cooking, add butter to the pan and baste the steaks with the melted butter.
5. Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Making the Bearnaise Sauce:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, white wine, and shallots. Simmer until reduced by half.
2. Cool the Mixture: Strain the mixture and allow it to cool slightly.
3. Whisk Egg Yolks: In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the cooled reduction until frothy.
4. Heat Gently: Place the yolk mixture over a double boiler (or a bowl over simmering water) and whisk continuously.
5. Incorporate Butter: Slowly drizzle in the melted butter while whisking until the sauce thickens.
6. Finish the Sauce: Stir in chopped tarragon, seasoning with salt and white pepper to taste.

How to Serve

To present Steak Frites & Bearnaise beautifully, consider the following tips:

1. Plating: Arrange the sliced steak on a plate alongside a generous serving of frites.
2. Drizzle the Sauce: Spoon Bearnaise sauce over the steak or serve it on the side in a small dish.
3. Garnish: Add a sprig of fresh tarragon or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color and freshness.
4. Pair with Wine: A nice red wine or a chilled white can enhance your dining experience.
5. Comfort Additions: Serve with a side salad, like arugula dressed in simple vinaigrette, for a refreshing touch.

By paying attention to presentation and pairings, you can turn this already incredible dish into a memorable experience for you and your guests. Enjoy your cooking adventure with Steak Frites & Bearnaise!

Additional Tips

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for grass-fed beef to enhance the flavor of your steak. Similarly, fresh herbs for your Bearnaise sauce will make a noticeable difference.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning. A well-seasoned steak will yield a much more flavorful result.
• Rest the Steak: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making every bite tender and juicy.
• Check Temperatures: Utilize a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare and adjust to your preference from there.
• Experiment with Potatoes: While russet potatoes are traditional, consider Yukon gold or purple potatoes for a unique twist with different textures and flavors.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to switch things up! Here are a few variations to try:

1. Steak Cuts: While ribeye and sirloin are great, flank steak or filet mignon can also work beautifully for a leaner option.
2. Add Flavor to Frites: Toss the frites with garlic powder or rosemary after frying for added depth of flavor.
3. Bearnaise Alternatives: Experiment with different fresh herbs, such as dill or chervil, to create your own custom version of Bearnaise sauce.
4. Add Veggies: Incorporate grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini on the side for a balanced meal.
5. Herb Butter for Steak: Mix softened butter with garlic and herbs to slather on your steak for an aromatic finish.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftover steak and frites in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They typically last for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked steak for up to 3 months. Portion it into individual servings and wrap tightly. However, fries are best enjoyed fresh, as freezing may alter their texture.
• Reheating: To reheat steak, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat. For fries, bake them in the oven at a high temperature for crispiness.

Special Equipment

A few essential tools will make preparing Steak Frites & Bearnaise at home easier:

• Heavy Skillet: A cast-iron skillet or stainless-steel pan works best for achieving a perfect sear on your steak.
• Deep Fryer or Heavy Pot: For frying the frites, these are essential to maintain the proper oil temperature.
• Slotted Spoon: This tool will help you easily remove the frites from oil without the excess grease.
• Double Boiler: Or a heat-safe bowl over simmering water will be necessary for making the Bearnaise sauce without scrambling the eggs.

Conclusion

Steak Frites & Bearnaise is a majestic dish that captivates the senses. With its perfect blend of flavors and textures, this recipe transforms any meal into a special occasion. Whether enjoying a simple dinner at home or hosting friends, this classic French dish impresses each time. Take the time to appreciate each component, from the succulent steak to the crispy fries and the luxurious Bearnaise sauce.

Ultimately, preparing and enjoying Steak Frites & Bearnaise is as rewarding as it is delicious. Embrace the art of cooking this bistro favorite and delight your taste buds!