Sirloin Steak with Crispy Frites by Richardhaywood

Ingredients

• 2 sirloin steaks (about 6-8 oz each)
• 1.5 lb potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, plus more for frying
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 shallot, finely minced
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp whole peppercorns, lightly crushed
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste) salt
• 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste) black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the potato fries dry and toss with 2 tbsp vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet over medium heat until heated through, about 5 min.
3. Bake fries for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. While fries bake, season steaks generously with salt and black pepper at 375°F until golden and cooked through, about 25 min.
5. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil and 1 tbsp butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
6. Sear steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness. Remove steaks from skillet and let rest for 5-10 minutes.
7. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced shallot to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 2 minutes.
8. Add crushed peppercorns, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
9. Pour in beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
10. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
11. Season sauce with salt and pepper to taste until ready to serve.
12. Slice steaks and serve immediately with crispy frites and smoky peppercorn sauce.