Zwiebelrostbraten – Traditional German Roast Beef with Fried Onions

Preparation

1. 01

   Step 01

   Pat the beef sirloin steaks dry, season with salt and pepper, and dredge lightly in flour. Shake off any excess flour.

2. 02

   Sear over high heat

   Heat butter and oil in a heavy skillet (cast iron is best) over high heat. Sear the steaks in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until a dark brown crust forms. Remove and keep warm in an oven preheated to 80 °C.

3. 03

   Cook slowly over medium heat

   Add the onion rings to the pan and cook slowly over medium heat for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Add the sugar and caramelize briefly. Remove the fried onions and set aside.

4. 04

   Deglaze and reduce

   Add the tomato paste to the pan and cook briefly. Deglaze with red wine and reduce by half.

5. 05

   Simmer over medium heat

   Add the beef stock and mustard, bring to a boil, and simmer over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until the sauce becomes velvety. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk in the cold butter in pieces until the sauce is glossy.

6. 06

   Step 06

   Remove the steaks from the oven, place on warmed plates, and spoon the sauce over them. Top the steaks generously with the fried onions and serve immediately.