Filet Mignon Drizzled with Brandy Peppercorn Sauce: A Gourmet Delight

Experience the delicacy of Filet Mignon Drizzled with Brandy Peppercorn Sauce, a gourmet delight that transforms any meal into an elegant feast. This luxurious filet mignon recipe features tender steaks seared to perfection and topped with a creamy, flavorful sauce infused with brandy and green peppercorns.

Recipe Overview

• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: French
• Cost: $$$

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This elegant dish is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home. The tender filet mignon pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce, making it a memorable dining experience. You’ll love how the brandy adds depth to the sauce, complemented by the subtle heat from the peppercorns, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that elevate the entire dish.

Context/Background

Filet mignon, known for its buttery texture and tenderness, has been a staple in fine dining for decades. This recipe draws inspiration from classic French cuisine, famed for its sophisticated use of sauces to enhance main ingredients. The brandy peppercorn sauce, a quintessential French sauce, is known for its aromatic and robust flavors, making it a perfect companion to high-quality beef cuts like filet mignon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the steak: Filet mignon should be tender and juicy, so avoid cooking it beyond your preferred doneness.
• Burning the brandy: Allow the brandy to deglaze the pan at medium heat to retain its flavor.
• Skipping the deglazing process: This step incorporates vital flavors from the steak into the sauce.

Tips for Perfect Filet Mignon Drizzled with Brandy Peppercorn Sauce

• Use a meat thermometer to achieve your desired doneness accurately.
• Let the steaks rest before serving to retain their juices.
• Warm the serving plates to keep the steak and sauce at an optimal temperature.
• Crack the peppercorns slightly to release their full flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute filet mignon with sirloin or ribeye for a different cut of beef.
• Use cognac instead of brandy for a different but equally rich flavor profile.
• Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to enhance the sauce with a tangy note.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this filet mignon with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light garden salad to balance the richness of the dish. For an authentic French dining experience, serve with a glass of full-bodied red wine like a Bordeaux or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Storage and Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to prevent the sauce from separating.

Make Ahead Instructions

Prepare the sauce up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Warm it up on the stove before serving to ensure a smooth consistency. Season the steaks ahead of time and allow them to come to room temperature before cooking for even searing.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 650
• Protein: 37g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fat: 54g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Dietary Notes

• Gluten-Free
• Keto-Friendly

The Recipe

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 25 mins

Total Time: 40 mins

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs
• Saucepan

Ingredients

• 4 filet mignon steaks
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons green peppercorns, drained

Directions

1. Season the filet mignon steaks with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. Remove steaks from skillet and keep warm.
5. Deglaze the pan with brandy, scraping up any browned bits, and reduce by half.
6. Reduce heat to low, add heavy cream and peppercorns, and simmer until sauce thickens.
7. Drizzle over steaks and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes

• Adjust the peppercorn quantity to modify the sauce’s spiciness.
• For extra richness, add an additional tablespoon of butter to the sauce.

Community Tips and Photos

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Questions and Answers

• Can I use another type of peppercorn? Yes, black or white peppercorns can be used but will alter the flavor profile.
• Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for brandy? You can use beef broth with a splash of apple cider vinegar as a substitute.