Empty Nest Filets

1. 1

   Place a heavy frying pan over medium heat and let it heat up.

2. 2

   Add the butter and tip the pan so the butter sizzles but doesnt burn.

3. 3

   Add the shallot and cook briefly until it softens, then add the mushrooms and cook until theyre just short of done.

4. 4

   Using a slotted spoon, remove the mushrooms from the pan, leaving the butter and mushroom juice.

5. 5

   Turn the heat to high.

6. 6

   Add the steaks and sear on both sides.

7. 7

   (This recipe will produce rare to medium-rare steaks; if you or your date likes shudder well-done beef, you can butterfly that steak, put it in the pan first, and cook it with a cover on until its done through before you add the good steak.

8. 8

   ).

9. 9

   Remove the steaks from the pan.

10. 10

    Add the brandy and a lot of black pepper, and cook down until its syrupy.

11. 11

    Put the steaks and the mushrooms back in the pan and let them all cook together for a few minutes, until the steaks are done to your liking and hot through, and the flavors have all blended.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.