Steak au Poivre

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Crush the peppercorns between two layers of a kitchen towel with a rolling pin. Season both sides of the steaks with salt and sprinkle evenly with the crushed pepper, pressing gently so that it adheres.

2. Step 2

   Set a large, heavy sauté pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. When the oil starts to smoke, add two of the steaks to the pan and sear until browned, about 2 minutes a side. Transfer to a rack set in a shallow roasting pan. Repeat with the remaining steaks, adding more oil to the pan if necessary. Put in the oven to finish cooking. For medium-rare meat, remove the steaks when the internal temperature registers 135 degrees on a meat thermometer (10 to 12 minutes). Cover loosely with aluminum foil and let the meat rest for at least 5 minutes.

3. Step 3

   While the steaks are in the oven, reduce heat under the pan to low and add the shallot. Cook, stirring frequently, until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Add the Cognac (be careful, as it may ignite) and reduce by half, about 2 minutes. Add the stock and increase heat to medium. Simmer until thickened and reduced by about half, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cream and green peppercorns. Season with salt if desired. Cover and keep warm.

4. Step 4

   When ready to serve, return the sauce to a bare simmer over medium heat and add a splash of Cognac. Spoon the sauce evenly over the steaks and serve immediately.