1-1/2 to 2 pounds tender boneless beef steak, cut 1 to 1-1/2 inches thick
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil
6 tablespoons brandy, warmed
1/4 to 1/2 cup minced shallots
1 to 2 tablespoons canned green peppercorns, rinsed and drained; or 1 to 2 tablespoons dried green peppercorns
3/4 cup whipping cream or creme fraiche
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon dry tarragon
Salt and pepper
Trim fat from steak or score fat to prevent meat from curling as it cooks
Melt butter in oil in a wide frying pan over medium-high heat. add meat and cook, turning once, until well browned on both sides and done to your liking; cut to test (6 to 8 minutes for rare).
Move pan into an open area, away from exhaust fans and flammable items. Add brandy and ignite; shake or tilt pan until flame dies. Transfer meat to a serving dish and keep warm.
Add shallots to pan; cook over high heat, stirring, until shallots are soft, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add peppercorns, cream, mustard and tarragon. Bring to a boil; boil, stirring, until large, shiny bubbles form and sauce is slightly thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in any accumulated meat juices from serving dish. Season with salt and pepper; pour over meat.
Makes 4 to 6 servings.