Simple Steak au Poivre Recipe

Name: Simple Steak au Poivre
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 beef tenderloin steaks, 6 ounces each, cut 1 inch thick; Salt; 1 tablespoon coarsely crushed black pepper; 1 teaspoon coarsely crushed Sichuan pepper; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 large shallots, finely diced; 1 1/2 cups rich beef or chicken broth; 1 tablespoon Cognac or bourbon; 1/4 cup creme fraiche; 1 bunch watercress, for garnish

Servings: persons

1
Put steaks in a shallow dish and season well on both sides with salt.
2
Sprinkle black pepper and Sichuan pepper evenly over steaks.
3
Press pepper into both sides with hands and leave for 10 minutes.
4
Put a large cast iron skillet over high heat.
5
When surface is nearly smoking, swirl 1 tablespoon butter in the pan and add steaks.
6
Adjust heat as necessary to keep steaks sizzling briskly.
7
Cook for 2 minutes on first side; seared side should be nicely browned.
8
Flip and cook for 2 minutes more.
9
Transfer steaks to a warm platter.
10
Make the sauce: Add 1 tablespoon butter to the pan.
11
Add shallots and saute for a minute or so, stirring, until they begin to brown.
12
Add broth and bring to a brisk simmer.
13
Add Cognac and continue to simmer until reduced by half, 3 to 4 minutes.
14
Stir in creme fraiche and cook until sauce is lightly thickened.
15
Return steaks to pan to warm, spooning sauce over them and turning once.
16
Arrange steaks on platter or individual plates and top with more sauce.
17
Garnish with bouquets of watercress and serve immediately.

471

kcal

Calories

Fat

Protein

Fat Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 4 beef tenderloin steaks, 6 ounces each, cut 1 inch thick, Salt, 1 tablespoon coarsely crushed black pepper, 1 teaspoon coarsely crushed Sichuan pepper, and more.

Yes, Simple Steak au Poivre falls under the Meat & Poultry category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Simple Steak au Poivre

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions