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Julia Child’s Ground Beef Patties (Bifteck Haché à La Lyonnaise) is a classic French recipe that’s simple, flavorful, and a perfect example of comfort food. This dish features ground beef patties, flavored with onions and herbs, making it a delicious and easy-to-make meal. It’s often served with potatoes, or in the classic French style, alongside a salad or vegetables.
Here’s how you can make Julia Child’s Ground Beef Patties (Bifteck Haché à La Lyonnaise):
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small egg
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (optional, for binding)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, egg, and fresh parsley (if using).
- Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add dried thyme for extra flavor.
- (Optional) Add mustard or bread crumbs if you like a little extra flavor or need to help the patties hold together better.
- Gently mix everything together until it’s well combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat to avoid tough patties.
2. Shape the Patties:
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (or more, depending on your desired patty size).
- Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it gently to form a patty about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Cook the Patties:
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil, allowing the butter to melt and foam.
- Once the fat is hot and bubbly, carefully place the patties in the pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan, so cook them in batches if necessary.
- Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. The internal temperature of the patties should reach 160°F (71°C).
- If you prefer your patties slightly rarer, cook them for less time, but make sure they are cooked to your liking.
4. Serve:
- Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the pan and let them rest for a minute before serving.
- Serve with a side of potatoes, a salad, or some vegetables, just as Julia Child recommended in the traditional French style.
Tips for Success:
- Fat content: Use 80% lean ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef will make the patties drier.
- Resting the patties: Let the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Variations: You can swap in other herbs or spices to suit your preferences, such as adding garlic or shallots for extra depth of flavor.
Why It Works:
Julia Child’s Bifteck Haché à La Lyonnaise is such a great dish because it’s simple but packs a punch with its use of fresh herbs and onions. The butter and oil combination creates a beautiful sear, and the egg and optional breadcrumbs help hold the patties together while keeping them moist. It’s a perfect recipe for an easy weeknight meal or a comforting dinner with friends and family.
Enjoy this classic French recipe that brings a taste of France right to your table!
