Plankstek
A classic Swedish dish featuring a steak served on a wooden plank, often with duchesse potatoes and vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Plankstek's origins are relatively recent, dating back to the mid-20th century. It is believed to have emerged in Swedish restaurants as a visually appealing and flavorful way to present steak. The concept likely drew inspiration from earlier methods of cooking food on wooden planks, adapted for a more refined dining experience.
Plankstek is often seen as a celebratory or special occasion dish in Sweden. Its presentation and rich flavors make it a popular choice for dining out or for preparing a more elaborate meal at home.
Restaurant Staple
Plankstek is a common menu item in many Swedish restaurants, ranging from traditional establishments to more modern eateries. It's a reliable option that appeals to a wide range of diners.
Home Cooking Showpiece
While often enjoyed in restaurants, Plankstek can also be a rewarding dish to prepare at home for a special occasion. It allows for customization of vegetables and sauces to individual preferences.
Social Gathering Meal
The visual appeal of Plankstek makes it a great dish to serve at social gatherings. The individual planks create an elegant and personalized dining experience for each guest.
Plankstek boasts a rich and savory flavor profile, primarily driven by the high-quality steak. The creamy duchesse potatoes and accompanying vegetables contribute complementary textures and tastes.
The dominant flavor is the beefy taste of the steak, often seasoned simply with salt and pepper to allow the meat's quality to shine. The duchesse potatoes provide a smooth, buttery, and slightly sweet counterpoint. The vegetables, which vary, often include asparagus, tomatoes, and mushrooms, offering fresh and earthy notes that balance the richness of the steak and potatoes. The sauce, often a bearnaise or red wine reduction, adds another layer of complexity and enhances the overall savoriness.
Steak Selection
Choose a high-quality cut of steak, such as sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye. The thickness should be suitable for plank cooking, generally around 1-1.5 inches.
Plank Preparation
Soak the wooden plank in water for at least 2 hours (or preferably overnight) to prevent it from burning during cooking. You can also use wine or beer for added flavor.
Potato Perfection
Use a piping bag with a star nozzle to create attractive duchesse potato swirls. Bake the potatoes until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Sauce Selection
Choose a sauce that complements the steak, such as bearnaise, red wine reduction, or garlic butter. Prepare the sauce in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Vegetable Variety
Select a variety of colorful and flavorful vegetables. Pre-cook vegetables that require longer cooking times before placing them on the plank.
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