New York Strip with French Fries

FOR RED WINE BUTTER: In a small saucepan over high heat, combine the shallots and red wine. Bring to a boil and boil until the liquid evaporates completely, about 10 minutes.

Place the butter pieces in a bowl, and pour the shallots over them. Add the salt and pepper and whisk until no lumps remain. Cover and refrigerate until the mixture is the consistency of butter, about 1 hour.

FOR FRENCH FRIES: Peel the potatoes and slice lengthwise 1/4 inch thick. Then cut each slice lengthwise into strips 1/4 inch wide. Fill a bowl three-fourths full with water and add the potato strips. Let stand for 15-20 minutes, then drain, rinse, and drain again. Repeat the soaking process one more time.

In a deep-fat fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, pour in peanut oil to a depth of 3 inches. Heat to 350 degrees on a deep-fat frying thermometer, or until a crust of bread becomes golden within moments of being dropped into the oil.

Drain the potatoes and pat dry with paper towels. When the oil is hot, working in 2 or 3 batches, slip the potatoes into the oil and fry until they are lightly cooked and soft throughout, 5-7 minutes.

Using a slotted spatula, transfer the potatoes to paper towels to drain. Let cool completely, 15-20 minutes.

Bring the oil back to 350 degrees. When it is ready, again working in 2 or 3 batches, slip the potatoes into the oil and fry, turning occasionally, until they are crisp and golden brown, about 6 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the potatoes to a tray lined with paper towels. Keep warm while you cook the remaining potatoes.

While the final batch of potatoes is frying, prepare the steaks. Rub salt and pepper to taste onto both sides of each steak. In a large sauté pan over high heat, warm the olive oil. When the pan is hot, add the steaks and cook, turning once, until done to your liking, 1 1/2-2 minutes on each side for medium-rare.

Transfer the steaks to warmed individual plates. Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the butter on top of each steak. Sprinkle the french fries with salt and pepper to taste and place a mound of the hot fries alongside each steak. Serve immediately.