Step-by-step instructions
Season the Ribeye: Generously rub the ribeye steak with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This seasoning will boost the steak’s flavor profile.
Smoke the Steak: Preheat your smoker and cook the ribeye until it reaches your preferred doneness—medium-rare is often the crowd favorite!
Prepare the Potatoes: While smoking, peel and boil the Yukon Gold potatoes in salted water until they’re tender. Once drained, mash them with cream or milk, and mix in the harissa and butter until creamy.
Cook the Asparagus: Toss trimmed asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill or roast until they’re just tender—this keeps them vibrant and adds a lovely char.
Plating Time: Serve the smoked ribeye alongside a generous serving of harissa buttered mashed potatoes, and arrange the asparagus nicely on the plate.
Best ways to enjoy it
For an elegant presentation, slice the smoked ribeye against the grain to display its perfectly pink center and drizzle some juices on top. Pairing this dish with a light salad can offer a nice contrast. For a drink, a bold red wine complements the rich flavors perfectly, while a crisp white can balance the spices in the potatoes.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers of this delicious meal shouldn’t last long, but if you have any, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, ensuring the steak doesn’t become overcooked. For longer storage, you can freeze the mashed potatoes for about a month!
Pro chef tips
Perfect Steak: Use a meat thermometer! Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare and ensure you let the steak rest for about 10 minutes after smoking—it allows the juices to redistribute.
Smooth Mashed Potatoes: For extremely creamy potatoes, use a potato ricer or food mill. This eliminates lumps and creates a luxurious texture.
Season As You Go: Taste and adjust your seasonings at each step. It’s easier to customize to your palate while cooking!
Creative twists
Want to get adventurous? Try switching out the harissa paste for a garlic herb butter for a more herbaceous flavor. You could also add a sprinkle of feta or crumbled blue cheese on top of the potatoes for an extra touch of richness. For a fresh twist, consider adding lemon zest to the asparagus before grilling!
Common questions
How long does it take to make this dish?
From start to finish, including smoking the steak, expect this meal to take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Can I prepare this for a family gathering?
Absolutely! This dish serves well and can often impress larger crowds—you can always scale up the potatoes and asparagus easily.
What if I don’t have a smoker?
No worries! You can use a grill with a smoker box or even an oven with a broiler. Just mimic the indirect heat and cook until you reach your desired doneness.
Can I make substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! Use cauliflower for a low-carb variation of mashed potatoes, and opt for non-dairy milk and butter alternatives for a vegan version.
Engaging with this dish brings a new level of culinary confidence, and with tips and tricks in your back pocket, you’ll be the star of your next dinner party!
