By: @mariehealthyhill Marie Hemphill
When you think of steak frites, your mind might wander to a cozy French bistro, but we’re going to give this dish a Texas two-step that’s bursting with bold flavors and healthier ingredients. Combining juicy, perfectly grilled flap steak, crispy roasted sweet potato fries, and zesty chimichurri with fresh oregano, this meal brings a touch of the Lone Star State to your table. With a balance of healthy ingredients and a bit of indulgence, it’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t sacrifice nutrition for taste.
Whether you’re throwing this on the grill for a backyard BBQ or searing it in a skillet, this meal is sure to impress. Hearty and wholesome, everyone is going to want seconds, may want to consider doubling the recipe. Bon appétit!
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
• 1.5 lbs grassfed flap steak (can sub for skirt, filet or NY Strip)
• 1-2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
For the Sweet Potato Fries:
• 2-3 large sweet potatoes, cut into fries
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Chimichurri:
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Prep and Soak the Sweet Potatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). After slicing the sweet potatoes into fries, soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This will help remove excess starch and make your fries extra crispy when they roast.
Step 2: Make the Chimichurri
While the sweet potatoes soak, prepare your chimichurri. In a medium bowl, combine the parsley, oregano, garlic, lime juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until well combined. Let it sit while you prepare the rest of the meal, so the flavors can meld.
Step 3: Prepare and Roast the Sweet Potato Fries
Drain and dry the sweet potato fries thoroughly with a towel. Toss them in olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread the fries in an even layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should come out golden and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
Step 4: Cook the Flap Steak
For this Texas-style steak, you can grill or use a cast-iron skillet.
Grill Method:
Preheat your grill to high heat. Rub the steak with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust to your preferred doneness. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Cast Iron Skillet Method:
If you’re cooking indoors, heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat with a bit of olive oil. Once hot, sear the steak for about 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Again, let it rest before slicing.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Slice the flap steak against the grain for the most tender bite. Pile up your sweet potato fries and drizzle everything with the fresh lime chimichurri. The vibrant green sauce perfectly complements the rich steak and sweet fries.
Texas Steak Facts to Savor
• Steak and Texas are practically synonymous! Texas is the top cattle producer in the United States, making it a prime destination for steak lovers.
• The flap steak, or “bavette,” is often underrated, but in Texas, it’s a favorite for its rich, beefy flavor that’s perfect for grilling.
• Texans are known for big flavors, and that’s exactly what you get with this dish: smoky paprika, tangy lime, and fresh herbs pack a punch that’ll satisfy any steak craving.
Why This Recipe is Healthier than you think:
1. Flap Steak: This lean cut is loaded with protein and iron while remaining tender and flavorful when cooked properly. Plus, it’s a great source of essential nutrients like zinc and vitamin B12, which support immune function and energy levels.
2. Sweet Potatoes: These beauties aren’t just tasty but packed with fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. They have a lower glycemic index compared to regular potatoes, which means they won’t spike your blood sugar and will keep you fuller for longer. What’s often overlooked is the value of leaving the skin on—the skin is packed with fiber, aiding digestion and making you feel fuller longer. It also contains antioxidants that protect your cells from damage. So, keeping the skin on your sweet potato fries not only adds texture and flavor but also enhances their nutritional benefits.
3. Chimichurri: isn’t just a flavor-packed sauce—it’s loaded with nutrients, too.
• Cilantro is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, which support everything from skin health to immune function and bone strength. Cilantro also contains natural detoxifying agents that can help remove heavy metals from the body.
• Oregano brings anti-inflammatory properties to the table thanks to compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which may help reduce oxidative stress in the body. Additionally, oregano is high in antioxidants, which protect your body from free radical damage and can contribute to overall heart health.
• Lime adds a dose of vitamin C, which not only boosts your immune system but also aids in the absorption of iron from the steak, making this meal even more beneficial for your overall health.
This combination of nutrient-dense ingredients makes this Texas Steak Frites a well-rounded, health-conscious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
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