Steak au Poivre is a classic French dish featuring a perfectly cooked steak coated in cracked black peppercorns, served with a rich and creamy sauce. This dish is elegant yet simple to prepare, making it perfect for a special occasion or a gourmet dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless ribeye or filet mignon steaks (about 1 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons whole black peppercorns (coarsely crushed)
• Salt (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup cognac or brandy
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making the Steak au Poivre takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steaks

1. Season Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt.
2. Coat with Peppercorns: Press the crushed black peppercorns onto both sides of the steaks to create a crust.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks

1. Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until hot.
2. Cook Steaks: Add the steaks to the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy (130°F or 54°C for medium-rare). Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate, loosely covered with foil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Deglaze the Pan: In the same skillet, carefully add the cognac or brandy. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add Cream and Mustard: Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate the Steaks: Slice the rested steaks if desired and place them on serving plates.
2. Add Sauce: Spoon the peppercorn sauce over the steaks.
3. Garnish: If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
4. Enjoy: Serve the Steak au Poivre with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of the Steak au Poivre (per serving, based on 2 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	650
Protein	45g
Fat	50g
Carbohydrates	5g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	1g

Tips for Customization

• Steak Variations: Use different cuts of steak, such as sirloin or New York strip, for a different flavor and texture.
• Sauce Enhancements: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of fresh herbs like thyme for extra depth in the sauce.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with a robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, for a complete dining experience.

Conclusion

Steak au Poivre is a luxurious and flavorful dish that brings the taste of France to your dining table. With its rich peppercorn sauce and perfectly cooked steak, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and elevate any meal. Enjoy this delightful recipe!