Tri-Tip Steak Frites with Red Wine Sauce

Directions

1. 1.

   Preheat oven to 475°F with racks in upper and lower thirds, with a 4-sided sheet pan in lower third.

2. 2.

   Toss fries with 2 tablespoons oil in hot sheet pan, then bake according to package instructions until golden and crisp.

3. 3.

   Meanwhile, pat steaks dry, then rub with peppercorns and 1/2 teaspoon salt.

4. 4.

   Heat remaining tablespoon oil in an ovenproof 12-inch heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Sear steaks on all sides, about 3 minutes total. Transfer skillet to upper third of oven and roast 9 to 10 minutes for medium-rare. Transfer steaks to a plate and let rest 5 minutes.

5. 5.

   Add wine to skillet and boil, scraping up brown bits, until reduced by half, about 1 minute. Add water and meat juices from plate and boil briskly until reduced by half, 3 to 4 minutes. Whisk in butter until incorporated. Season with salt and pepper.

6. 6.

   Sprinkle fries with tarragon. Serve steaks with sauce and fries.