Steak Au Poivre
A classic French-inspired dish featuring tender steak coated with crushed peppercorns and fennel seed, finished with a creamy sauce, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy-duty sealable plastic bag or between 2 sheets of wax paper, crush the black, white, and green peppercorns along with fennel seed coarsely with the bottom of a heavy skillet.
- Pat the steaks dry and coat both sides thoroughly with the crushed peppercorn and fennel mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, let the crushed peppercorn and fennel mixture sit for about 10 minutes before using. If you prefer a milder spice, reduce the amount of black peppercorns. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. This recipe can also be adapted using chicken or pork for a different protein.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Steak Au Poivre with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the dish. For a special occasion, consider offering a glass of red wine or a Rum Cup to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover steak can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. Alternatively, you can slice the steak and use it cold in salads or sandwiches for a delicious meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Steak Au Poivre contains roughly 550 calories, with 4g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (70% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of peppercorns?
Yes, you can experiment with different peppercorns such as pink or Sichuan for unique flavors. However, adjust the amounts to suit your taste, as some may be spicier than others.
What can I serve with Steak Au Poivre?
This dish pairs well with classic sides like roasted potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a simple arugula salad. You can also serve it with a rich sauce or drizzle of balsamic reduction for added flavor.
How do I know when the steak is cooked to my preference?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. If you don't have a thermometer, a gentle press with your finger can help gauge doneness, with firmer textures indicating more doneness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).