Steak Diane for Two

1. 1

   Flatten fillets a bit with the palm of your hand, the back of a skillet or a small mallet; they should be about 1 inch thick.

2. 2

   Sprinkle with salt and a lot of pepper.

3. 3

   In small skillet, preferably one just large enough to hold fillets, combine oil and tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.

4. 4

   When butter foam melts, sear steaks on both sides, just until browned, no more than 2 minutes a side.

5. 5

   Remove to platter.

6. 6

   Wipe pan clean with towel; add remaining butter over medium heat, with shallot or onion.

7. 7

   Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 2 minutes.

8. 8

   Stir in mustard, Worcestershire and cream.

9. 9

   Add some salt and a fair amount of pepper.

10. 10

    Stir once or twice, then taste and adjust seasoning.

11. 11

    Keeping mixture at a steady simmer, return meat and accumulated juices to pan.

12. 12

    Cook, turning two or three times, until meat is done to your liking, just 1 or 2 minutes a side for medium-rare.

13. 13

    Remove to a plate, and add lemon juice, if using, salt and pepper to the sauce as needed.

14. 14

    Spoon sauce over meat, garnish with chives or parsley, and serve.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.