Roasted Bison with Cassava

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss cassava fries with 3 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large baking sheet. Spread in a single layer and roast for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crispy.

   Tip: Cut cassava fries to uniform thickness for even cooking.

2. 2

   While cassava roasts, remove bison steaks from refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking. Pat completely dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

   Tip: Dry meat ensures better browning and crust formation.

3. 3

   Heat remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over high heat until smoking. Carefully place bison steaks in the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, working in batches if needed.

   Tip: Bison is very lean; avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.

4. 4

   During the last minute of searing, add butter, garlic cloves, rosemary, and thyme to the pan. Tilt skillet and baste steaks continuously with the foaming herb butter.

   Tip: Basting adds incredible flavor and tenderness to the meat.

5. 5

   Transfer seared steaks to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 8-10 minutes while you prepare the pan sauce.

   Tip: Resting allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

6. 6

   Pour off excess fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add sliced shallots and sauté over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

   Tip: Shallots add sweetness and depth to the sauce.

7. 7

   Deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar, scraping up all browned bits from the bottom. Add beef broth and simmer for 4-5 minutes until sauce reduces by half and coats the back of a spoon.

   Tip: The browned bits (fond) are liquid gold for sauce flavor.

8. 8

   Divide roasted cassava fries among four plates. Slice each bison steak against the grain and arrange on top. Drizzle pan sauce over steaks and around the plate, then serve immediately.

   Tip: Slicing against the grain makes each bite more tender.