| Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 8 mins – 11 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 90 | 5g | 2g | 6g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 4g | 0.5g | 1g | 0.2g |
Every once in a while, a recipe comes along that isn’t just a dish, but a culinary experience. The Mountain Pepper Wine Sauce for Steak is one such treasure. Blending the rich warmth of red wine with the unique piquancy of mountain pepper, it transports your taste buds to new, delectable heights.
Inspired by Tex-Mex Roots
Growing up in Texas, I fell in love with the robust and intricate flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. While this isn’t a Tex-Mex dish per se, the essence of blending bold and contrasting ingredients to create something beautiful is evident in the Mountain Pepper Wine Sauce for Steak. The rich notes of red wine mingle beautifully with the tartness of balsamic vinegar and the fruity sweetness of blackberry preserves, much like the symphony one might find in a well-crafted Tex-Mex dish.
A Healthy Indulgence
As someone who spends her days teaching energetic grade school children, I understand the importance of nourishing meals that also offer health benefits. This recipe isn’t just about indulgence; red wine is renowned for its antioxidant properties, which can promote cardiovascular health. Garlic and shallots also pack a punch with their anti-inflammatory benefits. Mountain pepper, while adding a uniquely peppery taste, has been recognized for its antimicrobial properties. This sauce is truly a guilt-free gourmet treat!
Versatility at Its Finest
One of the aspects I adore about this recipe is its versatility. While it perfectly complements a succulent steak, it can also be drizzled over roasted vegetables or used as a marinade for chicken. If you’ve ever enjoyed a classic red wine reduction sauce, you’ll find this recipe to be a delightful twist, infusing your dishes with a layer of sophistication and depth.
Pair and Enjoy
This sauce pairs beautifully with a robust Cabernet Sauvignon or a fruity Zinfandel. To complete the meal, serve with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or sautéed green beans. The Mountain Pepper Wine Sauce for Steak is similar in elegance to a traditional Bordelaise sauce but brings a fruity and spicy twist that makes it stand out.
For more such culinary marvels, don’t forget to explore AllRecipes or take inspiration from the unique Food Network collections. Let your kitchen adventures begin!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mountain pepper (Tasmanian pepperberry), crushed
- 2 tablespoons blackberry preserves
- 1/4 cup beef stock
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic. Sauté until the shallot is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Step Two
Add the crushed mountain pepper to the pan and stir for about 1 minute. Pour in the red wine and balsamic vinegar, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to reduce by half, which will take approximately 10-15 minutes.
Step Three
Add the blackberry preserves and beef stock to the pan. Stir well to combine and continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step Four
Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the butter until it is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step Five
Serve the sauce over your favorite steak, garnishing with fresh thyme leaves if desired. Enjoy your Mountain Pepper Wine Sauce for Steak!
