Description
Loaded Fries with Spicy Steak and Sauce
Ingredients
:
For the Fries:
4 large potatoes
, peeled and cut into thin strips
2 cups of vegetable oil for frying
Salt, to taste
For the Steak:
300g beef steak
, sliced into thin strips
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Spicy Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Garnish:
Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
:
Prepare the Fries
:
Heat the oil in a large pan or deep fryer to 180°C (350°F).
Fry the potato strips in small batches until golden and crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.
Cook the Steak
:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the steak strips with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Sear the steak strips for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and juicy. Set aside.
Make the Spicy Sauce
:
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sriracha, smoked paprika, and lemon juice.
Adjust the spice level to your preference.
Assemble the Loaded Fries
:
Arrange the crispy fries on a serving plate.
Add the steak strips evenly on top.
Drizzle generously with the spicy sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Serve and Enjoy
:
Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or indulgent meal!
This dish is a combination of crispy, savory, and spicy flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Potatoes: After peeling and cutting potatoes, soak strips in cold water for 30 minutes. This removes excess starch for crispier fries. Dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel.
2. First Fry (Blanching): Fry potato batches at 160°C (325°F) for 4-5 minutes until soft but not colored. Remove, drain, and let cool. This step ensures a fluffy interior.
3. Second Fry (Crisping): Increase oil to 190°C (375°F). Fry the blanched potatoes again until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and salt immediately.
4. Cook Steak: Pat steak strips very dry before seasoning. Ensure your skillet is very hot before adding oil and steak. Do not overcrowd the pan to get a proper sear.
5. Final Assembly: Layer hot fries on a pre-warmed plate. Top with steak while it’s still sizzling hot, then drizzle sauce and garnish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a shareable centerpiece. For a full spread, pair with a light, crisp salad to balance the richness. Consider offering extra sauces on the side, like a cool garlic aioli or a blue cheese dressing. For a fun twist, serve in individual paper cones for a casual gathering or game day. A cold, hoppy beer or an iced tea makes an excellent beverage pairing.
How-to Summary
Create loaded fries by double-frying potato strips for maximum crispness. Sear thinly sliced steak seasoned with paprika and garlic in a hot skillet. Whip up a simple spicy sauce from mayonnaise, sriracha, and lemon juice. Assemble by layering the hot fries, then the steak, finishing with a generous drizzle of sauce and a parsley garnish. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the fries instead of frying? Yes. Toss potato strips in oil and bake at 220°C (425°F) on a parchment-lined tray for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway. They will be less crispy but still delicious.
What cut of steak works best? Sirloin or flank steak are ideal for their flavor and ability to cook quickly when sliced thinly against the grain. Avoid very tough cuts.
How can I make the sauce less spicy? Reduce the sriracha and add more mayonnaise or a teaspoon of honey to mellow the heat while maintaining flavor.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? You can make the sauce and season the steak strips a few hours in advance. Keep them refrigerated. Fry the potatoes and cook the steak just before serving.
What are good vegetarian alternatives to the steak? Substitute with seasoned black beans, sautéed mushrooms, crispy chickpeas, or a plant-based meat alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Soggy Fries: Avoid skipping the soaking and drying step for potatoes. Frying wet potatoes or overcrowding the oil leads to steam and sogginess.
- Overcooked Steak: Since the steak is cut into thin strips, it cooks very quickly. Sear for just 2-3 minutes total to keep it tender and juicy.
- Underseasoning: Season each component—the fries after frying, the steak before searing, and the sauce to taste. Layered seasoning is key.
- Assembly Delay: Assemble and serve the loaded fries immediately. Letting components sit separately leads to lukewarm, limp fries.
Conclusion
These Loaded Fries with Spicy Steak and Sauce transform simple ingredients into a spectacular, crowd-pleasing dish. The magic lies in the technique of achieving crispy fries, perfectly seared steak, and a bold, creamy sauce. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality indulgence at home. It’s the ultimate combination of texture and flavor, perfect for any occasion that calls for a truly satisfying treat.