Steak Frites with Bearnaise (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Béarnaise Sauce

01 - 1 shallot, finely diced (brunoise)
02 - 1-2 egg yolks
03 - 2.5 teaspoons red wine vinegar
04 - 2.5 teaspoons white wine
05 - 1.5 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
06 - 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
07 - 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped, plus more for garnish
08 - 225g unsalted butter, melted
09 - 2 dashes Tabasco sauce
10 - 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
11 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Main Components

12 - 2-4 ribeye steaks
13 - 4 russet potatoes
14 - Neutral oil for frying
15 - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Peel the russet potatoes and cut to desired thickness for fries. Soak in ice water for 2 hours or overnight to remove excess starch.
02 - Season ribeyes generously with salt and refrigerate for 1 hour to create a dry brine effect.
03 - Preheat oil to 135°C (275°F). Pat potatoes thoroughly dry and fry in batches for 5-6 minutes until very soft and fully cooked through but not browned.
04 - Transfer the blanched potatoes to a sheet pan lined with paper towels and place in freezer for 30-45 minutes to firm up.
05 - Melt butter completely and set aside to cool slightly.
06 - In a skillet, combine shallot, both types of tarragon, chives, vinegar and wine. Heat on medium-low until all liquid is absorbed, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Allow mixture to cool.
07 - Remove steaks from refrigerator and allow to come to room temperature before cooking.
08 - In a large glass or metal bowl, combine egg yolks, 2 tablespoons of the melted butter, the prepared tarragon mixture, white pepper and Tabasco.
09 - Fill a small saucepan with about 3cm of water. Bring to a simmer then reduce to medium heat.
10 - Place the bowl with yolk mixture over the simmering water (ensuring the bottom doesn't touch the water) and whisk vigorously until pale yellow and thickened, about 2 minutes. Watch constantly to prevent scrambling.
11 - Remove from heat and slowly drizzle in remaining butter while whisking continuously to create a smooth emulsion.
12 - Preheat a cast iron pan on high heat for 2 minutes. Pat steaks completely dry and sear for approximately 3 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust based on thickness). Allow to rest before slicing.
13 - Increase oil temperature to 190°C (375°F). Fry the pre-cooked potatoes in batches until golden brown and crispy. Season immediately with salt and chopped parsley.
14 - Slice the rested steak against the grain. Plate with crispy fries and a generous portion of béarnaise sauce. Garnish with fresh chives and freshly ground black pepper.

# Notes:

01 - The double-fry method for the potatoes creates perfectly crispy fries with a fluffy interior
02 - Resting the steak before slicing is crucial to retain juices and ensure tenderness
03 - This classic béarnaise sauce can be made up to 1 hour ahead and kept warm