Steak Frites is a classic French dish that pairs juicy, well-seasoned steak with crispy fries. This dish is simple yet incredibly satisfying. Traditionally served with a rich sauce or aioli, it brings out the full, indulgent flavor of the beef and potatoes. In this version, we use ribeye steaks and double-fry the potatoes for the perfect crispy bite. The garlic aioli adds a creamy finish that complements the savory steak.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

For the Fries:

• 3 large russet potatoes (about 3 pounds)

• Refined peanut oil for frying (about 5-6 inches)

• Kosher salt, to taste

For the Steak:

• 1 ribeye steak (2 to 2 ½ pounds), at room temperature

• 2-3 teaspoons kosher salt

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• Freshly cracked black pepper

For the Garlic Aioli:

• Garlic aioli (recipe linked in the original post)

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   Peel the potatoes and cut them into ⅓-inch thick sticks. Soak the potato slices in ice water for 15 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry.

2. Fry the Potatoes (First Fry):
   Heat the peanut oil in a heavy pot to 300°F. Working in batches, fry the potatoes for 3-4 minutes until soft but not browned. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined sheet pan.

3. Cook the Steak:
   Heat a large skillet over high heat. Pat the steak dry and season generously with kosher salt. Add olive oil to the skillet and sear the steak for 4-6 minutes on each side until medium-rare (or your preferred doneness). Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes and top with butter.

4. Fry the Potatoes (Second Fry):
   Increase the oil temperature to 350°F and fry the potatoes for 5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve:
   Slice the steak against the grain and serve it alongside the crispy fries. Add a generous dollop of garlic aioli on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 909 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Protein: 58g

• Fat: 70g

  • Saturated Fat: 27g

• Cholesterol: 133mg

• Sodium: 479mg

• Total Sugars: 1g

• Dietary Fiber: 2g

The Tradition Behind Steak Frites

Originating from France, Steak Frites is often seen as the epitome of French bistro fare. The dish has long been a popular choice in French dining culture, offering a perfect balance of protein and carbohydrates. It’s easy to prepare yet allows for deep customization in terms of seasoning and accompaniments. Traditionally, Steak Frites is served with a sauce like béarnaise or a simple aioli, both of which enhance the natural flavors of the beef and potatoes. Over time, the dish has made its way into restaurants around the world, adapting to local tastes while still staying true to its roots. Its simplicity is its strength—focusing on high-quality ingredients and techniques to bring out the best in each component.

Choosing the Right Steak

For this Steak Frites recipe, ribeye steak is the star of the show. Known for its marbling and rich flavor, ribeye is the perfect cut for achieving a juicy and flavorful steak. The fat content in ribeye ensures that the steak remains tender and moist during cooking, even when seared to a medium-rare finish. When selecting your ribeye, it’s important to choose a steak that is well-marbled, as this will result in a more flavorful and juicy outcome. Ribeye steaks are best cooked using high heat to quickly sear the outside while keeping the inside tender and succulent. A quick sear in a hot skillet, followed by resting the steak to allow the juices to redistribute, results in a mouthwatering dish that perfectly complements the crispy fries.

The Secret to Perfect Fries

The fries in Steak Frites are not just any fries—they are the crispy, golden, double-fried potatoes that elevate the dish to a whole new level. The secret to achieving the perfect fries lies in the double-frying technique. The first fry is done at a lower temperature, allowing the potatoes to cook through without getting too crispy. Once they have softened, they are drained and allowed to rest. The second fry is done at a higher temperature, which crisps up the exterior of the potatoes, resulting in a golden-brown, crispy texture. This method ensures that the fries are both tender on the inside and satisfyingly crispy on the outside, providing a perfect contrast to the tender steak.

In addition to the double-frying technique, soaking the potato slices in ice water before frying is another key step. This process removes excess starch, which helps the fries become crispier when fried. Once the fries are cooked, they are seasoned with kosher salt, which enhances their natural flavor. The crispy fries offer a delicious contrast to the juicy steak, making every bite a harmonious experience.

The Role of Garlic Aioli

No Steak Frites would be complete without a rich and flavorful dipping sauce. In this version, garlic aioli is served alongside the steak and fries to provide a creamy and tangy complement to the dish. Aioli, a garlic-infused mayonnaise, brings an extra layer of richness that pairs perfectly with the savory steak and crispy fries. The garlic adds a punch of flavor, while the creamy texture of the aioli helps balance the richness of the beef and the crunchiness of the fries. While some may choose to dip their fries in a simple ketchup or mustard, the garlic aioli elevates this dish to a gourmet level, offering an added layer of flavor that ties the whole meal together.

The Art of Cooking the Perfect Steak

Achieving the perfect steak is a delicate process that requires attention to detail. To ensure the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, it’s important to let it come to room temperature before cooking. This allows the steak to cook more evenly, ensuring a tender and juicy result. Seasoning the steak generously with kosher salt helps to enhance the natural flavor of the meat, and freshly cracked black pepper adds an aromatic depth to the seasoning.

When cooking the steak, it’s crucial to use a hot skillet or grill to achieve a beautiful sear. Searing the steak for a few minutes on each side creates a caramelized crust that adds flavor and texture. After the steak has been seared to perfection, it’s important to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Resting the steak allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each bite is tender and flavorful. Adding a pat of butter to the steak just before serving adds a rich finish that enhances the overall taste.

The Simplicity and Indulgence of the Dish

One of the most appealing aspects of Steak Frites is its simplicity. The dish doesn’t require complex techniques or a long list of ingredients. Instead, it focuses on using high-quality ingredients and precise cooking methods to bring out the best in each component. The combination of juicy steak, crispy fries, and creamy aioli is a perfect example of how less can be more. While Steak Frites may seem like a straightforward dish, it is the attention to detail in each step that makes it so special. The flavors are bold and satisfying, yet the dish remains elegant and refined.

Customizing Steak Frites

While the traditional version of Steak Frites is a classic, there are many ways to customize the dish to suit your tastes. For example, you can experiment with different cuts of beef, such as sirloin or filet mignon, if you prefer a leaner steak. Some variations also incorporate different types of dipping sauces, such as béarnaise sauce or peppercorn sauce, which add a unique twist to the dish. Additionally, you can change the seasoning of the fries, adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch. For those looking for a lighter option, grilled vegetables or a simple green salad can be served alongside the steak and fries to balance the richness of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Steak Frites is typically served as a main course, but it can easily be paired with a variety of sides to complete the meal. A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect accompaniment, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak and fries. For a more indulgent meal, you can serve the dish with a glass of red wine, such as a full-bodied Bordeaux or a rich Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine’s tannins and acidity help to cut through the richness of the steak, creating a harmonious pairing.

Conclusion

Steak Frites is a timeless dish that continues to capture the hearts and appetites of food lovers around the world. With its perfect balance of juicy steak, crispy fries, and creamy aioli, this dish offers a satisfying and indulgent dining experience. While simple in its composition, Steak Frites requires skill and attention to detail to achieve the perfect result. Whether you’re enjoying it as a special treat or preparing it for a family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Its versatility allows for endless variations, but at its core, Steak Frites remains a symbol of culinary excellence and comfort.