Feast of Nations

In honor of Festival of Nations weekend here in St. Louis, I decided prepare a dinner that borrowed inspiration from different regions around the world.  I prepared Teriyaki Steak Frites with a Chimichurri and Teriyaki Steak Sauce.  Chimichurri is a condiment native to Argentina; it consists of fresh herbs and can be used on anything from meats to breads and even as a marinade.  The steak I grilled was marinated in a store brand Teriyaki Sauce (which of course is a staple used in Asian cuisine) and stored in the refrigerator for 2 1/2 hours.  I also, used some of the Teriyaki sauce to make a steak sauce which was 2 parts Teriyaki Sauce, 1 part Steak Sauce, and 1tsp. of honey.  The meal was rounded out with Sweet Potato Frites, a side dish that has gained increasing popularity in American restaurants all around.   Below I have included the Chimichurri and Sweet Potato Frites recipes; for the steak marinade recipe see my Dinner Time blog post.

Chimichurri

Ingredients

• 1 cup firmly packed fresh  flat-leaf Parsley
• 3-4 Garlic cloves
• 2 Tbsps. fresh Oregano leaves (can sub. 2 tsps. dried Oregano)
• 1/2 cup Olive Oil
• 2 Tbsps. Red/White Wine Vinegar
• 1 tsp. Sea Salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp. Red Pepper Flakes

Preparation

1. Finely chop the Parsley, fresh Oregano, Garlic.  Place in a small bowl.
2. Stir in the Olive Oil, Vinegar, Salt, Pepper, and Red Pepper Flakes.

*Serve immediately or refrigerate.  If chilled, bring to room temp before serving.  Can keep for a day or two
*Makes 4 servings

Sweet Potato Frites

Ingredients

• 1 large Sweet Potato, peeled & cut into wedges
• 1 Tbsp. Olive Oil
• Pinch of Cayenne Pepper
• 1 tsp. Granulated Garlic
• 1/2 tsp. Smoked Paprika
• 1 tsp. Nutmeg
• Salt and Black Pepper

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees
2. Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and toss to coat evenly
3. Pour onto baking sheet and spread into an even layer
4. Bake until Frites have browned on the outside, crisp to touch, and tender inside

*Place under broiler for added crispness (watch carefully)
*Makes 2 servings