Steak and Dauphonaise Spuds

pollyanna24

Not very MSE, but we want to really treat ourselves for Xmas dinner and this is what we have decided to have. But where's the best place to get it (we have no independent butchers near us) and what's the best bit to get?

I want to serve it with Dauphonaise potatoes, but I don't really want to make from scratch. Normally I would, but I want time off cooking, so want something simple. Maybe even (shock horror) a ready meal type from a supermarket?

We are also having red cabbage and bought this when it was on offer in Tesco a couple of weeks ago. It's in the freezer.

Jayar

If you mean beef steak, then my first choice would have to be sirloin. Not quite as tender as fillet, but much tastier. However, do think about ostrich steaks. Cooked properly (i.e. not too long) they are just as tender as fillet steak but soooo tasty. Lidl have them in just now (£5.99)
As for a cheat's version of dauphonaise potatoes, it has to be Lidl again. They have vacuum packed sliced potatoes in a creamy sauce with a hint of garlic and they are really nice. Just a few minutes in the microwave - perfect cheating
I'd stir fry the red cabbage, perhaps with some chestnuts, pine nuts or sesame seeds.
Whatever you do I'm sure it will be lovely and hope you enjoy it. Happy Christmas!

lesley1960

I would go for rib eye steaks , even the supermarket ones tend to be quite nice

pollyanna24

Much appreciated, thanks guys. Might have to take a wander into Lidl. Like the sound of ostrich steaks, even if it's not for Xmas Day, keep them for another day.

mattogier

If you after a REALLY GOOD steak then I highly recommend Donald Russell

CLICKY

It aint cheap but is certainly worth it - and worth getting the in oven cooking thermometer that they sell too so that you can cook the meat perfectly.

How much effort would it be to make the potatoes from scratch - REALLY - you should be ashamed! 30 mins prep and 10 mins to cook!

CLICKY

You could always make it in advance, freeze and re heat on the day!

mattogier

Just re-read your post...

As to the best bit - it depends what you like - all the meat from Donald Russell will be top notch stuff and it will be down to you to cook it well - I like the cheaper and tougher cuts and make them into stews - more flavour - but you can't beat a well cooked, well rested fillet steak for a mouthwatering melt in the mouth delight.

That said if you have big eaters in the house then go for a double rib steak that you can pick up and get your teeth into big time (and the dog (if you have one) will be happy too)

morwenna

Hmm.. I would always go for Welsh Black Sirloin Steaks from a butchers in Llangollen - money saving this isn't! http://www.piersons.co.uk/beef.html

But from a supermarket, I would probably choose Rib Eye, making sure it hasn't ever been frozen. (This is because I eat my steak rare and feel the flavour loses something when it is frozen.) i can't comment on the availability or niceness of ready made potato dauphinoise, 'cause I've never tried any!! However, maybe Xmas is a reason to try a luxury range? Just for once..;)

mattogier

Donald Russell are STILL taking deliveries for Xmas -

Here's a FREE DELIVERY & 10% discount code WIN0739 - It MIGHT work for you?

They do a trimmed Rump Roast for 3 to 4 people at just £19 - Perfect!

I'm getting one to do Carpaccio (Thin Raw Beef with Olive Oil, Capers and Parmesan) on Xmas Eve - Enjoy