Beef steak with French fries

Beef steak with fries is a classic recipe, full of flavor and tradition, that has delighted family meals over the years. Preparing this dish not only brings a delicious taste but also special moments with loved ones. In this recipe, I will share with you step by step how to achieve a juicy beef steak and crispy fries, so you can transform an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Total time: 2 hours (includes preparation and baking)
Preparation time: 30 minutes (the night before)
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g beef (ideal for steak, such as the rump or tenderloin)
- 7 medium potatoes (choose potatoes with a good texture for frying)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- 1 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for greasing the tray

Step 1: Preparing the meat

1. Cutting and seasoning: Start by cutting the beef into thick slices of about 2-3 cm. This will ensure that the steak remains juicy on the inside and has a crispy crust on the outside.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the meat slices. It is essential to use quality salt, as it will enhance the flavors of the meat.

3. Foil wrap: Wrap each piece of meat in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator overnight. This marinating step will allow the spices to penetrate the meat, resulting in a tastier steak.

Step 2: Preparing for baking

1. Morning of baking: Take the meat out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This will help with even cooking.

2. Thyme: Sprinkle a little thyme on each piece of meat. Thyme adds a flavorful note that perfectly complements the taste of beef.

3. Preparing the tray: Grease a baking tray with olive oil. This will not only prevent the meat from sticking but also help create a delicious crust.

4. Arranging the meat: Place the slices of meat in the tray, leaving space between them. Then add a cup of water to the tray, which will help maintain moisture during baking.

5. Covering: Cover the tray with aluminum foil for the first 60 minutes of baking. This will create a moist environment, allowing the meat to cook evenly and remain juicy.

Step 3: Baking

1. Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C. A moderate temperature is ideal for slow cooking the meat, allowing the flavors to develop.

2. Cooking: Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 90 minutes. After 60 minutes, remove the aluminum foil for the last 30 minutes so that the meat browns nicely.

Step 4: Preparing the fries

1. Cleaning the potatoes: While the steak is baking, clean the 7 potatoes. Choose medium-sized potatoes for even frying.

2. Cutting: Cut the potatoes into slices about 1 cm thick. This will ensure even and crispy frying.

3. Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the potatoes; otherwise, they will become soggy instead of crispy. Fry the potatoes until golden and crispy, then remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Serving

1. Assembling: Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute in the meat, resulting in a juicier steak.

2. Slicing: Slice the steak thinly and place it on a platter. Add the fries alongside, perhaps even a few sprigs of fresh thyme for a special touch.

3. Serving suggestions: You can accompany this dish with a fresh salad or a sweet mustard sauce for a contrast of flavors. A glass of red wine would also perfectly complement this meal.

Useful tips

- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, which pairs very well with beef. You can also add chopped garlic for an extra flavor boost.

- Frequently asked questions:
- What type of meat is best?: Choose beef with a moderate fat content to achieve a juicy steak.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?: Yes, the steak can be prepared a day ahead and reheated in the oven for a quick lunch.

Nutritional benefits

Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and zinc, essential nutrients for the body. Fries, on the other hand, provide carbohydrates that offer quick energy, but it's important not to overdo the portions, considering the calorie content.

Thus, beef steak with fries is not just a simple and delicious recipe but also a way to bring the family together for unforgettable moments. Experiment with your favorite spices and sides, and turn this dish into a personalized recipe that reflects your tastes. Bon appétit!