Ingredients for Steak
Beef: 400g
Marinade: Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
Sauce Ingredients
Unsalted butter: 20g
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Thyme (optional): 1-2 sprigs
Beef broth or water: 50ml
Red wine (optional): 2 tablespoons
Heavy cream: 50ml (or BBQ sauce for a stronger flavor)
Sides: Potatoes: 2 medium-sized (fried or mashed)
Vegetables: Asparagus, carrots, broccoli (optional) Salt, pepper, oil.
Equipment: Cast iron skillet or thick non-stick pan. Tongs, spoon.
Instructions for Cooking Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Beef: Pat dry with a paper towel. Leave the steak in a thick piece, about 2-3cm thick, to retain moisture when pan-frying.
Marinate the beef with salt, black pepper, and olive oil for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
Vegetables: Wash and lightly boil asparagus, carrots, and broccoli in salted water (3-5 minutes), then shock in ice water to retain color. Peel and cut potatoes into desired shapes, either frying or mashing them.
Sauce Preparation: Mince the garlic and gather butter, cream, and other ingredients.
Step 2: Pan-fry the Steak
Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil, and wait until the pan is very hot (lightly smoking). Place the steak in the pan and cook each side for 2-3 minutes, depending on your desired doneness. In the last minute, add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, and thyme to the pan. Continuously baste the steak with the melted butter for extra flavor. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Using the same pan, reduce the heat to medium, and add a little butter if needed. Sauté the garlic, then pour in the red wine (if using), scraping any browned bits from the pan. Cook for about 1 minute to evaporate the alcohol. Add beef broth and heavy cream, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer gently until the sauce reduces and thickens. If you prefer BBQ sauce, substitute the heavy cream with BBQ sauce and heat through.
Step 4: Plate and Serve
Slice the steak into thin pieces (if desired) or leave it whole. Arrange the fried/mashed potatoes and blanched vegetables on a plate. Place the steak on top, drizzle with the hot sauce, and garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper or thyme for presentation.
Step 5: Enjoy
Steak is best enjoyed hot, paired with a glass of red wine or fruit juice to elevate the dining experience. This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
