How to Prepare the Steak: Heat the butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steaks on both sides with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side to medium-rare or until done to your liking.

How to Prepare the Frite: Cut the potatoes into 1/4" slices lengthwise and cut each slice into 1/4" wide fries. Place in a large bowl of water and soak at least 1 hour, or overnight. (The more starch that is removed, the crispier the fries will be.) When ready to fry, heat oil to 340 degrees F in a deep heavy-bottomed pot or fry-o-later. Drain and thoroughly dry frites. Fry the potatoes in small batches for about 3-4 minutes. Remove to a sheet tray lined with paper towels. When ready to serve, heat oil to 390 degrees F. Fry potatoes in small batches for about 2 minutes, until golden brown. Remove to a sheet tray lined with paper towels and sprinkle generously with coarse salt. Serve immediately with Dijon mustard.

How to Prepare the Bernaise: Combine the vinegar, wine, shallots, and tarragon in a small stainless steel saucepan. Place over high heat and boil until reduced by half. Remove pan and allow to cool to room temperature. Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Fill the bottom of a double boiler with water and bring to a simmer. Combine the egg yolks and reserved shallot mixture in the top of the double boiler. Whisk until smooth and place the top over the bottom, continue whisking until the mixture is light and fluffy. Slowly drizzle in the melted butter and whip constantly until the mixture thickens. Season to taste with salt and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Add fresh tarragon and chervil, to garnish.

Serves 4

Posted to recipelu-digest Volume 01 Number 472 by "bunny" ~~ltlayla696~~at;ix.netcom.com> on Jan 7, 1998