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- Prepare the French Fries:
Start by making your French fries since they take the longest to cook. First, peel the russet potatoes and cut them into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick). Rinse the fries in cold water to remove excess starch, which will help them become crispier when fried.
Fry the Potatoes: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot over medium-high heat. You’ll want the oil to reach around 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the potato strips in batches, ensuring the fries don’t overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Drain and Season: Once the fries are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Season with salt immediately, and if you like a little extra flavor, sprinkle them with paprika for a smoky kick. Set the fries aside while you prepare the steak and onions.
- Caramelize the French Onions:
To make the French onions, melt the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir them occasionally, cooking for about 10-15 minutes, until they begin to soften.
Caramelize the Onions: Add the sugar and balsamic vinegar to the onions and continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently. The onions should become soft and golden brown, with a rich, sweet flavor. If they begin to brown too quickly, you can lower the heat. Once they’re fully caramelized, add fresh thyme, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and remove the onions from the heat. Set aside.
- Cook the Ribeye Steaks:
While the onions are caramelizing, it’s time to cook the ribeye steaks. First, season each steak generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh thyme. Let the steaks come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking.
Sear the Steak: Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil to the pan. Once the pan is hot, place the steaks in the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. For medium-rare steaks, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C), or adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness.
Finish the Steak: When the steaks are almost done, add a tablespoon of butter and a smashed garlic clove (optional) to the skillet. Let the butter melt, and then spoon it over the steaks for extra richness and flavor. Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the pan and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the steak tender.
- Assemble the Dish:
Now that everything is ready, it’s time to put it all together.
Serve the Steak: Place each ribeye steak on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of caramelized French onions over the top, allowing the rich, sweet flavors of the onions to complement the savory steak.
Add the Fries: Serve the crispy French fries on the side, with a little extra salt for seasoning. You can also offer dipping sauces such as ketchup, garlic aioli, or a tangy mustard sauce to complement the fries.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with a few sprigs of fresh thyme for a pop of color and aroma. Serve immediately, while everything is still hot and fresh.
Tips for the Best Ribeye Steak with French Onions and French Fries:
Rest Your Steak: Don’t skip the resting step after cooking your steak. This is key to ensuring a juicy, tender steak. Resting allows the meat’s juices to settle and redistribute throughout the steak, making each bite more flavorful.
Perfect French Fries: For even crispier fries, try double-frying them. After the first fry, let the fries cool for a few minutes, then fry them again for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.
Customize the Onion Flavor: If you prefer a different flavor profile for your French onions, try adding a splash of red wine instead of balsamic vinegar or incorporating a bit of garlic into the caramelizing process.
Choose the Right Cut: Ribeye is a fantastic cut for this recipe because of its marbling, which makes it tender and juicy. If you prefer a leaner steak, you can swap the ribeye for a sirloin or flank steak, though they might not be quite as rich.
Pair with a Good Wine: This dish pairs beautifully with a full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or a bold Zinfandel. The wine will complement the richness of the steak and the sweetness of the caramelized onions.
Why You’ll Love Ribeye Steak with French Onions and French Fries:
Rich and Satisfying: This dish offers layers of flavor, from the juicy, well-seasoned ribeye steak to the sweet, caramelized French onions, and the crispy, golden fries. It’s a truly indulgent meal that hits all the right notes.
Comfort Food with a Gourmet Twist: Ribeye steak with French onions and French fries is comfort food at its finest, but with the sophisticated flavors of a high-end steakhouse. It’s perfect for special occasions or just when you want to treat yourself.
Perfect for Sharing: This meal is great for sharing with family or friends. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for a celebratory dinner or a casual weeknight feast.
Conclusion
Ribeye steak with French onions and French fries is a classic, satisfying meal that’s packed with rich, savory flavors. The combination of juicy, perfectly cooked ribeye, sweet caramelized onions, and crispy fries makes for a dinner that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a dish to impress your guests or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe delivers on taste and satisfaction. So, fire up your skillet and enjoy a steakhouse-quality meal right at home!
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