For the Steak:
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tbsp beef tallow (for searing)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1-2 cloves garlic, smashed; fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for extra flavor
- 2-3 large russet potatoes (cut into thin strips or matchsticks)
- 1/4 cup beef tallow (or more, for frying)
- Salt, to taste
Step 1: Prepare the Fries
1. Soak the Potatoes:
- After cutting the potatoes into matchsticks, place them in a large bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps them crisp up better when frying.
- Drain and thoroughly pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to prevent splattering.
- In a heavy skillet or deep pot, melt the beef tallow over medium heat until it reaches around 300°F (150°C).
- Fry the potato strips in batches for 3-4 minutes, just until they’re soft but not browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Increase the tallow temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the potatoes a second time for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove, drain on paper towels, and sprinkle with salt.
1. Season the Steaks:
- Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and black pepper.
- In a cast-iron skillet, melt 1 tbsp of beef tallow over high heat until it begins to smoke slightly.
- Add the steaks to the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until they reach your preferred doneness.
- Optional: Add smashed garlic cloves and herbs (like rosemary or thyme) to the skillet, spooning the infused tallow over the steak as it finishes cooking.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve the steak alongside the crispy frites, and enjoy a delicious, seed oil-free steak frites meal! You can add a side of garlic aioli or a sprinkle of fresh herbs over the fries for extra flavor.
- Double-frying the potatoes gives the fries that perfect crispy texture.
- Use a thermometer for precise oil temperature control while frying the frites.