For a gourmet meal at home, skillet-seared steak with crispy fries and honey Dijon aioli is a fantastic choice. Start by soaking your sliced potatoes, then sear seasoned strip steaks in a hot cast iron skillet for that perfect crust. Serve the juicy steak alongside golden fries and drizzle with a zesty honey Dijon aioli for dipping. This dish balances flavors and textures beautifully, making it ideal for any occasion—keep going to discover helpful tips and tricks!
History
When you think about the history of skillet-seared steak with fries, you can trace its roots back to 19th-century Europe. The dish, known as steak frites, emerged in France, where it became a beloved bistro staple.
Chefs utilized cast iron skillets for their remarkable heat retention, ensuring perfectly cooked steak. As culinary trends evolved, so did the flavors accompanying this classic dish.
Today, you might enjoy your steak frites with Honey Dijon Aioli, a modern twist combining traditional garlic and olive oil with honey and tangy Dijon mustard.
The introduction of air fryers in the early 2000s revolutionized how crispy fries are made, offering a healthier alternative while maintaining that satisfying crunch.
This history highlights the evolution of simple fare into a gourmet experience.
Recipe
Cooking a skillet-seared steak with crispy fries at home can be a delightful culinary experience. This recipe focuses on achieving a beautifully cooked steak that's both flavorful and tender, paired with perfectly crispy fries for a satisfying meal.
The steak is seasoned simply with kosher salt and black pepper, allowing the natural flavors to shine through, while the fries are prepared to maximize their crispiness, making them an irresistible side dish.
To elevate the dish, a honey Dijon aioli is included as a tangy dipping sauce, adding a delightful contrast to the richness of the steak. With just a few high-quality ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal right in your own kitchen. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this skillet-seared steak with fries is bound to impress.
Ingredients:
- High-quality strip steaks
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh potatoes
- Mayonnaise
- Honey Dijon mustard
- Butter (for basting)
- Optional seasonings for aioli (garlic powder, lemon juice)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by soaking your sliced potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to enhance their crispiness.
While the potatoes soak, season the strip steaks liberally with kosher salt and black pepper. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter.
Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the steaks to the pan and cook for about 3 minutes on each side, basting with the melted butter to enrich the flavor.
After cooking, transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, air fry the soaked potatoes until golden and crispy, typically around 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through.
For the honey Dijon aioli, whisk together mayonnaise, honey Dijon mustard, and any optional seasonings until well combined.
Extra Tips:
To guarantee your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, consider using a meat thermometer; aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
Additionally, letting the fries cool slightly before serving will help them maintain their crispiness longer.
For a more flavorful aioli, feel free to experiment with different seasonings or even add fresh herbs.
Enjoy your delicious homemade steak and fries!
Cooking Steps
To get started on your skillet-seared steak, gather your steak and seasonings, letting the steak sit at room temperature while you prep.
Once your cast iron skillet is hot, sear the steak to lock in flavor and create that perfect crust.
After a brief rest, slice against the grain and get ready to enjoy your meal with a side of honey Dijon aioli. Consuming steak with moderation in butter can enhance flavor while managing calorie intake.
Step 1. Gather Steak and Seasonings
Gathering high-quality steak and the right seasonings is vital for a delicious skillet-seared steak. Choose cuts like ribeye or strip steak, and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step guarantees even cooking.
Generously season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper, enhancing the steak's flavor. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat; this is essential for achieving that perfect sear. A hot skillet locks in the juices and flavors.
As you cook, plan to serve crispy fries on the side. Cook the steak for roughly 3 minutes per side, basting with butter during the last minute.
Remember to let the steak rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Step 2. Sear Steak in Hot Skillet
Heat your cast iron skillet until it's almost smoking—this is essential for a perfect sear.
While the skillet heats, let your seasoned steaks sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Generously season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper for maximum flavor.
Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the steaks in it and sear for 3 minutes on each side.
To enhance richness, baste the steaks with butter as they cook. This technique not only helps achieve a crispy crust but also locks in moisture.
While the steaks cook, toss your fries in the oven for that golden finish.
Pair everything with a side of honey Dijon aioli for a deliciously satisfying meal!
Step 3. Rest Steak Before Slicing
After searing your steaks to perfection, it's important to let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, preventing them from spilling out when you slice. By covering the steak loosely with foil, you help maintain a consistent internal temperature, ensuring the meat stays warm.
This resting period not only preserves moisture but also enhances tenderness and flavor, as the seasoning penetrates deeper into the steak.
If you slice immediately after cooking, you risk losing that precious moisture, resulting in a drier texture.
Step 4. Slice Steak Against the Grain
Once your steak has rested, it's time to slice it for the best texture and flavor.
First, identify the grain by looking at the direction of the muscle fibers. Slicing against the grain is essential; this technique breaks up the fibers, resulting in tender bites.
Grab a sharp knife and aim for slices about 1/2 inch thick—this thickness enhances both presentation and ease of eating.
As you slice, let the juices flow, ensuring each piece is juicy and flavorful.
After slicing the steak, it pairs perfectly with crispy fries.
Don't forget to drizzle your plate with honey Dijon aioli for that extra zing. Enjoy every bite of this delicious combination!
Step 5. Serve With Honey Dijon Aioli
Now that you've sliced the steak and it's ready to shine on your plate, let's prepare the honey Dijon aioli that'll elevate your meal.
In a bowl, whisk together equal parts mayonnaise and honey Dijon mustard. Adjust the ratio to your taste for that perfect tanginess. If you want to enhance the flavor even more, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder and a pinch of salt.
Once your aioli is ready, serve it as a dipping sauce alongside the skillet-seared steak and crispy fries. You can also drizzle it over the steak and fries for extra moisture and flavor.
For the best taste, prepare the aioli in advance and refrigerate it to let the flavors meld beautifully before serving. Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
While preparing skillet seared steak with fries, you'll find that attention to detail makes all the difference in achieving a delicious meal.
Cooking the skillet steak in a preheated cast iron pan guarantees a perfect sear, enhancing its flavor. Don't forget to let them rest for about 10 to 15 minutes; this step retains the juices, ensuring a tender bite.
Your crispy fries made from well-soaked potatoes will take the dish to another level, especially when tossed with fresh herbs and truffle salt.
Pair everything with a zesty honey dijon aioli for dipping, and you've created your favorite steak frites. Additionally, serving it alongside traditional Brazilian cooking methods can inspire a unique twist to your meal.
With these simple steps, you'll impress anyone fortunate enough to enjoy this mouthwatering meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Sear Steak With Butter?
Yes, you can definitely sear steak with butter! It enhances the flavor and richness of the meat.
Start by searing the steak in the skillet, then add butter after a few minutes to avoid burning. Basting with melted butter during cooking helps create a golden crust and keeps the steak juicy.
For better results, consider using clarified butter or oil for higher smoke points, allowing you to achieve that perfect sear without any issues.
How to Fry Texan Steak?
To fry a Texan steak, start by picking a high-quality cut like ribeye or sirloin.
Season it well with kosher salt and black pepper, letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat and add butter for basting.
Cook the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side, basting during the last minute.
Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy and flavorful.
