Steak au Poivre

By jenknoll

Ingredients

• • 4 sirloin steaks or filet mignons, about 8oz (225g) each
• • ½ tsp dry mustard
• • 1–2 tsp black peppercorns
• • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• • ¼ cup sherry or brandy
• • 2/3 cup créme fraîche

Details

Servings 4

Preparation

Step 1

1. Trim any excess fat from the steaks. If using filet mignons, flatten slightly with a meat mallet. Sprinkle with the mustard.

2. Crush the peppercorns in a mortar or under a saucepan and press on both sides of the steaks.

3. Heat the oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Add the steaks and cook, 2–3 minutes each side for a rare steak, 4 minutes each side for medium, and 5–6 minutes each side for well done. Transfer to a platter and tent with aluminum foil.

4. Add the sherry to the pan and stir up the browned bits. Add the créme fraîche and cook for 3 minutes, until slightly thickened. Place the steaks on individual plates and top with the sauce. Serve hot.