Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Potatoes: Place the peeled and chunked potatoes into a large saucepan and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to the boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a knife.
- Season the Steak: While the potatoes are cooking, prepare your beef steak. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel – this is crucial for getting a good crust. Rub them all over with the olive oil, then season generously on both sides with the coarse sea salt and black pepper.
- Grill the Steak: Place a griddle pan or heavy-based frying pan over a high heat. Let it get smoking hot. Carefully place the steaks in the pan. For a medium-rare finish, cook for 2-3 minutes per side. I find that this timing gives a fantastic result for a 2.5cm thick steak. Adjust by a minute either way for rare or medium.
- Baste with Butter and Aromatics: In the last minute of cooking, add the 30g of butter, the crushed garlic cloves, and thyme sprigs to the pan. As the butter melts and foams, tilt the pan and use a spoon to continuously baste the steaks with the fragrant, nutty butter.
- Rest the Steak: This is the most important step! Transfer the cooked steaks to a warm plate or a cutting board, cover loosely with foil, and let them rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it's tender and not dry.
- Mash the Potatoes: While the steak is resting, drain the cooked potatoes well and return them to the hot, dry pan for a minute to steam off any excess moisture. Use a potato masher or a ricer to mash them until smooth.
- Finish the Mash: In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk, 75g of butter, and minced garlic until the butter is melted and the milk is warm. Do not let it boil. Pour this mixture into the mashed potatoes and beat well until smooth and creamy. Stir in the chopped chives and season to taste with salt and white pepper.
- Serve: Slice the rested grilled steak against the grain. Serve immediately with a large spoonful of the hot, creamy mashed potatoes. Drizzle any of the resting juices from the board over the steak for extra flavour.
Notes
Ensure the steak rests for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This is crucial for a tender and juicy result. Drizzle any resting juices over the sliced steak before serving.
