- Crush peppercorns: Lightly crush the peppercorns using a mortar and pestle or the bottom of a pan.
- Sauté shallots: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
- Add peppercorns: Stir in the crushed peppercorns and cook for another minute.
- Deglaze: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly, about 3 minutes.
- Finish sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Simmer until the sauce is thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
3. Garlic Herb Butter
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Mix ingredients: In a bowl, combine the softened butter with garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Shape and chill: Place the butter mixture on a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap and shape into a log. Chill in the refrigerator until firm.
- Serve: Slice and place a pat of garlic herb butter on top of your cooked steak just before serving.
4. Red Wine Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) red wine
- 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté shallots: In a saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
- Add flour: Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Deglaze: Pour in the red wine and beef broth, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer until it thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
- Finish: Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chimichurri Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, packed
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Blend ingredients: In a food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Process: Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Season: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips for Using Sauces
- Pairing: Match the sauce to the flavor profile of your steak. For example, a bold red wine sauce goes well with a ribeye, while a fresh chimichurri complements a flank steak.
- Serving: Serve the sauce on the side or spooned over the steak just before serving.
- Storage: Most sauces can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently before serving if needed.
Conclusion
These homemade sauces will elevate your steak to the next level with rich flavors and perfect complements to your meal. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and finding your favorite!
Bon appétit!