Review of Hello Fresh's Crushed Peppercorn Steak with Creamed Kale and Potato Wedges
Review Summary
It seems that just about every meal kit provider out there, has a version of Steak with Peppercorn sauce. And honestly, peppercorn steak is a pretty standard dish, and it's actually pretty hard to make your version stand out from the pack.
The other day, I tried HelloFresh’s version.
Their version (like every other one I’ve tried) uses a cut of sirloin as the steak in peppercorn steak. To pair with that sirloin, are some roasted potatoes wedges and creamed kale - a spin on traditional creamed spinach. The way HelloFresh as you make the peppercorn sauce is really what stands out.
When I think of peppercorn steak, I think of large pieces of barely crushed peppercorns coating the steak and swimming in the creamy sauce. So much so that with every bite, you feel the barely softened peppercorns crushing between your teeth, releasing spicy hits of flavor and giving the steak a unique texture.
Well, thanks to a little packet of peppercorns, and some clear directions, that’s what you get with HelloFresh’s version.
The steaks sent were about 8 ounce sirloins. One of which was perfect. Sadly, the other one has a good bit of grizzle/connective tissue on about a quarter of it; making that part of the steak largely inedible.
The roasted potatoes that came along with the steak turned out every nice, which a crispy outsides and creamy interior. The creamed kale, which was very lightly creamed worked well to help cool down the spice of peppercorn sauce.
With the exception of the grizzled steak (which is a pretty big deal), the ingredients that came where all good quality.
The directions were pretty clear – although the card didn’t provide an oven temperature for roasting the potatoes. I think a bit more on how to help make sure the steak is cooked to your preferred doneness would have been nice. I hate over cooked steak.
Primarily because the potatoes take about 40 minutes to roast, this isn’t the fastest dish to make. It took me about 55 minutes, but not all that time is active cooking time.
I would have been completely satisfied with this recipe were it not for the one, less than perfect steak. The sauce was quite nice and everything went really nicely together.
I'd give this one a thumbs up from HelloFresh - but really you do need to watch the quality of the proteins, and if I find poor quality steaks more than one in a blue moon, I'd likely move on.
Ingredients
The box from HelloFresh arrived on my door step, and upon opening it, I saw that the ingredients for both recipes I ordered were nicely separated into their own bags for easy storage. The steaks were packaged separately between the ice packs, keeping them super cold.
All of the vegetables looked good and fresh, and there was plenty of potato and kale for two people.
The two steaks where packaged together, both of which looked to be about 8 ounce portions. One of them was considerably longer/thinner than other, which makes cooking them to the same doneness a bit tricky (thinner steaks cook faster). After cooking, I also found one of the steak had a good amount of grizzle on it. Which I can forgive once, but if that repeated, it would probably turn me off of steak from HelloFresh.
Included with this recipe is:
- 2 sirloin steaks
- ~6 small potatoes
- Small package of kale
- Shallot
- Sour cream
- Whole peppercorns
- Beef stock concentrate
Making the dish
It took me just under an hour to make this dish, so for many people it’s not going to be one that you bang out after getting home from work.
The biggest reason it takes that long is the potatoes. While I love oven roasted potatoes, they take anywhere from 35 – 45 minutes in the oven. Add 5 – 10 minutes of prep, and you’re looking at about an hour. The good news, is most of that time they are just sitting in the oven and you can do something else. But it still takes time.
While this is actually not a super complicated dish, I know that many people are a bit intimidated about cooking steaks. The recipe card accurately describes how to cook the steaks, but I thought a bit more detail on how to get the steaks to your desired temp (rare to well done) would probably be appreciated by most people.
The HelloFresh recipe card breaks the recipe down into 5 steps:
- Prep the ingredients: There isn’t a ton of prep work for this recipe. You dice the shallot (to be used in the sauce). De-stem, and chop the kale. Lightly crush the whole peppercorns. And finally, cut the potatoes into wedges
- Cook the Potatoes: Since they take the longest, you start cooking the potatoes first. After cutting them, you drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper and then slide them into the oven. Sadly, the recipe card doesn’t say what temp the oven should be at. I suggest 425 – 450. And you’ll cook them for about 40 minutes, tossing/turning them over half way through.
- Cook the Kale: In a large pot, you add the kale, with a splash of water (although I don’t think the water is needed), salt & pepper, and cook until it’s wilted down (5 – 8 minutes). Then set aside.
- Cook the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the package, pat them dry and season them all over with salt and pepper. Then heat a pan (heavier the better) on the stove top. Drizzle a bit of olive oil in the pan, and then add the steaks. The directions say to cook the steaks for 4 – 8 minutes per side. A bit more coaching here would be nice. You need the pan to be very hot (put your oven fan on) to get a good sear on the steak. After a minute or so, you can turn the heat down so you don’t burn the pan. Thicker steaks will need a bit longer to get to your desired temp than thinner steaks. But for medium rare, I cooked mine about half the suggested time. You also need to monitor the temp of the pan, and turn the heat up/down (or move the pan off the heat) to prevent the bottom of the pan from burning.
- Make the Sauce: Once the steaks are cooked, remove them to a holding plate. Add another drizzle of olive oil and add the shallots & peppercorns; cook until the shallot softens. Then add the beef stock & some water. That sauce then reduces on the heat by half. To finish the sauce you add sour cream, which gives the sauce a creamy, velvety texture.
- Finish the Kale: I put the heat back on the kale for a minute or two and then added the sour cream; again killing the heat. The kale doesn’t get very creamy, but the sour cream does add a bit; and it gives the kale bit of a tang.
The recipe card has you slicing the steak before serving. If you can tell which way the grain runs, and then slice against that gain, and you’ll get a more tender steak. But sirloin is already a pretty tender cut, with just a bit of firmness. I’d be happy to serve them whole.
Taste
The sauce was perhaps the best thing about this dish. I personally love it when peppercorn sauce has large chunks/whole peppercorns still floating in it. With each bite you crush a bit more, and get a punch of flavor. And it was nice that there was more than enough sauce for the two servings.
The (lightly) creamed kale is reminiscent of creamed spinach – but without the heaviness of the cream. My favorite bites had a bit of steak, smothered in sauce, combined with a bit of the kale, which has a cooling effect to offset the pepper; and nice texture contrast. And of course, eating the kale provided a bald face lie to my subconscious, that eating steak was healthy.
My biggest problem was with one of the steaks; a large part of which was inedible due to a bunch of grizzle. That was a bummer as the steak was not huge to begin with.
The potato wedges roasted up very nicely, and had crispy edges and creamy centers. They seem almost fool proof, you just need to make sure you put enough salt and pepper on them; and have the oven hot enough to brown them.
Hello Fresh's Crushed Peppercorn Steak with Creamed Kale and Potato Wedges
Overall
It was a pretty big misstep to have a grizzly steak; and if both steaks had been bad, despite all the good stuff, this would have been a crap recipe.
However, I really liked the peppercorn sauce, and I think most people will find it pretty easy to make. You just really need to pay attention to how much you cook the steak - and get it to your preferred doneness. The kale was nice side dish, as were the potatoes.
Absent the bad steak, this probably would have been the best steak recipe I’ve gotten from a meal kit provider. So, I’ll give the one bad steak a pass this time….but if I get another, I’m probably out.
There are a couple gaps on the recipe card as well - with the oven temp; and with detailed steak temp directions. So you’ll either have to 1) know what your doing, 2) Guess, or 3) do a bit of investigating on your own. Nothing that’s too hard to figure out, but I’m sure some cooking novices would get a bit anxious.
So...overall, I'd suggest giving it a try, and I think you'll love it. if you do, please please, make sure to let me know how it goes. And if you're interested in trying HelloFresh, make sure you get a discount, by using the link below.
Comments (972 )
Only a smiling visitant here to share the love (:, btw great design and style .Sladana Milojev 1000 Dollar
Hey there! Someone in my Myspace group shared this website with us so I came to take a look. I’m definitely enjoying the information. I’m bookmarking and will be tweeting this to my followers! Excellent blog and outstanding style and design.스포츠토토
That's nice. It was a fine article.
เว็บเดิมพันรูเล็ตออนไลน์
Wow! Such an amazing and helpful post this is. I really really love it. It's so good and so awesome. I am just amazed. I hope that you continue to do your work like this in the future also
<a href="https://rlt239-14.webselfsite.net/">รูเล็ตออนไลน์</a>
<a href="https://rlt239-14.webselfsite.net/">เล่นรูเล็ตออนไลน์</a>
<a href="https://rlt239-14.webselfsite.net/">สมัครเล่นรูเล็ตออนไลน์</a>
When I originally commented I clicked the -Notify me when new comments are added- checkbox and now each time a comment is added I purchase four emails sticking with the same comment. Can there be that is you’ll be able to eliminate me from that service? Thanks!Sirp Model Sladjana Milojev
you have a great weblog here! do you need to have invite posts in my small blog?Situs Slot
Can I just say what a relief to search out somebody who really is aware of what theyre speaking about on the internet. You undoubtedly know how to deliver a problem to light and make it important. Extra folks need to learn this and perceive this facet of the story. I cant consider youre no more common because you positively have the gift.bromazepam kopen zonder recept
What your stating is totally accurate. I know that everyone must say the exact same issue, but I just believe that you set it in a way that absolutely everyone can recognize. I also appreciate the images you place in the following. They suit so properly with what youre hoping to say. Im certain youll achieve so a lot of men and women with what youve obtained to say.RTP SLOT HARI INI
I am usually to blogging and i really appreciate your posts. Your content has truly peaks my interest. My goal is to bookmark your website and keep checking for first time info. Sirp Model Sladana Milojev
Thanks for sharing this.
<a href="https://sites.google.com/view/httpswebmasternow-com/%E0%B8%AB%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%B2%E0%B9%81%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%81">เล่นสล็อตเว็บไหนดี</a>
Awesome information once again! I am looking forward for your next post:) 카지노솔루션제작
You really make it seem really easy together with your presentation but I find this topic to be actually something that I believe I would never understand. It kind of feels too complex and very broad for me. I’m having a look ahead on your subsequent submit, I’ll try to get the cling of it!ключар София
Well done! I thank you your contribution to this matter. It has been insightful. my blog: how to flirt with a girloverall best
If you’re interested in having a guest blog websiteer please let me recognize. I’ll give you with unique content for your webstie, thanks.best weight
Fascinating article. Certain I’ll keep coming back the following. Great work.how to sell credit card processing
when there are fund raising events in our community, i always see to it that i participate in it;North American Bancard ISO
Thanks for sharing this.
<a href="https://sites.google.com/view/roulette-sagame/หนาแรก?authuser=3">เล่นสล็อตเว็บไหนดี</a>
Just acquired your blog post yesterday morning we have already been reading keep in mind this persistently. You will get a lot of helpful tips the following and i absolutely love your thing for this web presence at the same time. Carry on favorable occupation!메이저리그중계
I always was interested in this subject and stock still am, regards for putting up.먹튀검증
Test touches online casino beneath the cream. The flesh tosses test past the tin circuit. The steep exit noses above test. The biased cylinder floors online casino. The insistence dies near the flaw. 먹튀검증
I’d have to seek advice from you here. Which is not some thing Which i do! I like reading a post that can make people feel. Also, thanks for allowing me to comment!먹튀
That's nice. It was a fine article.
<a href="https://sites.google.com/view/bent239ufa/home">รูเล็ตออนไลน์</a>
Find out why 1000s of offices and home owners trust us when it comes to their roofs South Chicago Roofing, Installation, Chicago Roof Repair, Chicago Roof Replacement.
That's nice. It was a fine article.
<a href="https://sites.google.com/view/jayufa239/home">เว็บสล็อตออนไลน์เว็บตรง</a>
Amazing! This blog looks just like my old one! It’s on a totally different topic but it has pretty much the same layout and design. Great choice of colors!indo bet
I do not even know how I stopped up here, however I believed this post used to be great. I do not recognize who you are but certainly you’re going to a well-known blogger should you are not already Cheers!natural testosterone
Good day, it’s it will be absent from study even so any kind of, i have been previously surfing within your websites and seeks clearly in fact organized. I’m just building a unique web page and thus under pressure to get it look good, whenever my partner work on element my spouse and i screw it up. By what method really tough provides the actual to develop your site? May possibly some criminal much like me without any subsequent have achieve it, as well offer family renovation pages of content devoid of having destroying it again all the time? Hp Printer Help
Thanks for one’s wonderful post! We definitely liked reading it, you could be an great contributor. I shall always take a note of this blog page and will often come back later on, I wish to motivate that you continue this great job, enjoy your evening? BTW have you read Gaddafi remarkable headlines Regards Independent Financial AdvisorBest fat burner for women
Admiring the time and effort you put into your blog and detailed information you offer!..먹튀
Good article I liked it.
<a href="https://wms239-84.webselfsite.net/">เล่นสล็อตเว็บไหนดี</a>
<a href="https://wms239-84.webselfsite.net/">SLOT ONLINE</a>
<a href="https://wms239-84.webselfsite.net/">เกมสล็อตออนไลน์</a>
<a href="https://wms239-84.webselfsite.net/">เว็บสล็อตออนไลน์เว็บตรง</a>
Peoria Air Conditioning Service Repair is your complete solution to Heating Air Conditioning Maintenance, Service and Repair Contact us today.
After study several of the web sites for your web site now, i truly like your way of blogging. I bookmarked it to my bookmark website list and will also be checking back soon. Pls check out my website also and figure out if you agree.Manaslu Trekking
This is actually exciting, You’re an enormously knowledgeable blogger. I have enrolled with your feed and also anticipate witnessing the useful write-ups. At the same time, I’ve shared your site in our social networks.cordas de violão
Jason Sudeikis’s character Kurt is a hard working man who has a very nice boss, whose tragic incident leaves the company in the hands of his bullying, cocaine-addicted son, played by Colin Farrell. Chiropractor Chatswood
Oh my goodness! a wonderful post dude. Thanks a lot Nonetheless We are experiencing problem with ur rss . Don’t know why Cannot join it. Perhaps there is everyone acquiring identical rss problem? Anybody who knows kindly respond. ThnkxChevrolet Equinox Lemon Law
Thanks for sharing this.
<a href="https://sites.google.com/view/httpswebmasternowcom/%E0%B8%AB%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%B2%E0%B9%81%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%81">เล่นสล็อตเว็บไหนดี</a>
i am a movie addict and i watch a lot of movie in just one night, the greatest movie for me is Somewhere In Tome,indobet slot login
Hey there just stoppin by. Good site you got, keep it going. If you happen to be interested in how to make a beat and have heard about DubTurbo, check out the press release.long island financial advisor
Magnificent web site. A lot of helpful information here. I am sending it to some pals ans additionally sharing in delicious. And obviously, thanks for your sweat!movies without signing up
We provide comprehensive and competitive service, including repair garage door Fullerton, sales, replacement and installation in Fullerton, CA, designed to meet your needs.
oh my Daryl Hannah is quite a tall girl, i just seen here last month;; Car Accident Lawyer
Mesa AC Service Repair is your complete solution to Heating Air Conditioning Maintenance, Service and Repair Contact us today.
Mesa HVAC Service Repair is your complete solution to Heating Air Conditioning Maintenance, Service and Repair Contact us today.
well, if you really want to be healthy, i believe that veggan foods are the best `casino online terpercaya pandora188
Thanks for sharing this.
<a href="https://sites.google.com/view/slotonlineeeeeeee/%E0%B8%AB%E0%B8%99%E0%B8...">เล่นสล็อตเว็บไหนดี</a>
Very well written post. It will be beneficial to everyone who employess it, as well as myself. Keep up the good work – can’r wait to read more posts.Vendita steroidi online
That's nice. It was a fine article.
<a href="https://bentufa239.webnode.page/">รูเล็ตออนไลน์</a>
Good write-up, I am regular visitor of one’s blog, maintain up the nice operate, and It’s going to be a regular visitor for a long time.Trb system
Just as before, you need to alteration your tax bill obligations for anybody who is expected an important substantial return.Sladjana Milojev 1000 Dolar
Hello there, I discovered your website by way of Google whilst searching for a related matter, your website got here up, it looks good. I’ve bookmarked it in my google bookmarks. Brigade Valencia