Craving a delicious and authentic French bistro meal without spending hours in the kitchen? This recipe for 30-Minute French Bistro Steak Frites is your answer! This recipe delivers the classic flavors of a Parisian steakhouse in a fraction of the time, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a romantic meal at home.
Choosing Your Steak
The key to a great steak frites is, of course, the steak! Look for a cut that’s naturally tender and flavorful, such as ribeye, sirloin, or strip steak. Aim for about 1-inch thickness for even cooking. Before you start cooking, pat the steak dry with paper towels – this helps achieve a beautiful sear. Learn more about selecting the perfect steak.
Making the Perfect Frites
Crispy, golden-brown frites are just as important as the steak! The secret to perfect frites lies in double-frying. First, fry the potatoes at a lower temperature until they are cooked through but not browned. Then, increase the temperature and fry them again for a few minutes to achieve that signature crispiness. For extra flavor, consider adding some herbs like rosemary or thyme to your frying oil. Check out this guide to the perfect french fry.
The Simple Sauce
A classic steak frites is never complete without a delicious sauce! While many options exist, a simple compound butter with garlic and herbs is a perfect complement. Simply melt some butter, add minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt and pepper. Spoon this over your cooked steak. For something a little richer, try a classic béarnaise sauce.
Quick Pan-Seared Perfection
Season your steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side until you achieve a beautiful brown crust. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven (400°F/200°C) and cook to your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Find out more about cooking steak to perfection.
Plating and Serving
Once your steak is cooked and your frites are golden brown and crispy, it’s time to plate your masterpiece! Place the steak on a plate, arrange the frites alongside it, and drizzle generously with your compound butter. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a nice addition. Don’t forget a glass of red wine! Browse some wine pairing suggestions here.
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Conclusion
This 30-Minute French Bistro Steak Frites recipe is a fantastic option for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and simple techniques, you can recreate the magic of a Parisian bistro in your own kitchen. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of potatoes are best for frites? Russet potatoes are ideal for making frites due to their high starch content, which contributes to their crispiness.
Can I use other herbs besides parsley in the compound butter? Absolutely! Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives.
How do I know when my steak is cooked to my desired doneness? Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your steak is cooked to your preference. Rare is around 125°F (52°C), medium-rare is 130-135°F (54-57°C), medium is 135-140°F (57-60°C), and well-done is 140°F (60°C) and above.
Can I make the frites ahead of time? You can par-cook the potatoes ahead of time, but it’s best to fry them until golden just before serving to maintain their crispiness. Read more tips on making perfect fries.
What type of oil is best for frying frites? Vegetable oil or canola oil are great choices for frying, as they have a high smoke point.