Basil Beef And Fingerlings With Olive Oil And Coarse Salt Food

BASIL OIL

Steps:

• In a large saucepan of simmering water, blanch the basil leaves for 2 minutes, then drain and squeeze out as much water as possible. In a blender, combine the basil with 1/2 cup of the olive oil and blend for 1 to 2 minutes, scraping down the sides as necessary, until very smooth. Add the remaining oil, blend just to mix and pour into a large jar. Cover tightly and let sit overnight in the refrigerator. Strain the oil through a double-thickness of slightly dampened cheesecloth into a clean glass jar. Cover tightly and use as directed in th recipe or refrigerate for up to 2 days.

BASIL BEEF AND FINGERLINGS WITH OLIVE OIL AND COARSE SALT

Steps:

• For the beef: Heat the oven to 375°F/180°C. Roast the meat 15 minutes. Remove, and cool. Thinly slice with a sharp knife. Mix the oil, lemon zest and juice, and basil. Toss with the meat in a glass casserole. Season, and spread the mixture out, cover, and refrigerate all day or overnight, turning once or twice. Serve at room temperature.
• For the potatoes: Bring a large pot of water to the boil. Salt it, as you would for pasta. Add the potatoes, and cook until tender when you test them with a fork. Drain. Toss in olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, and serve.
• For the plate: Plate some beef and potatoes side by side on a plate and enjoy!

SMASHED FINGERLING POTATOES WITH ROAST GARLIC-BASIL OIL

Steps:

• In a large pot, cover the fingerlings with cold water. Bring to a simmer over high heat and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain in a colander.
• While the potatoes are cooking, puree half of the roasted garlic with the apple juice, basil and parsley in a blender until smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper. Add the olive oil slowly until incorporated. Reserve.
• Transfer half of the potatoes into a mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes with the remaining garlic using a stationary or hand mixer until smooth. Add the yogurt, whipping to smooth as necessary.
• Add the remaining potatoes and mash into rustic, large pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper. Drizzle in a little of the basil oil.
• Transfer to a warm serving dish. Drizzle a few tablespoons of the basil scented olive oil over the surface of the puree. Serve immediately while piping hot.