Ingredients

• 2 sirloin steaks, 2cm (¾") thick
• 2 tsp peppercorns, black, green or mixed, crushed
• 15g (½oz) butter
• 1 tsp oil
• 50g (2oz) button mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp brandy
• 4-5 tbsp double cream

Method

1. Press peppercorns onto both sides of steaks.
2. Heat butter and oil in a frying pan and cook steaks to desired doneness (Rare: 2½ mins each side, Medium: 4 mins each side, Well done: 6 mins each side).
3. Remove steaks and keep warm.
4. Add mushrooms to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in brandy and reduce slightly.
6. Reduce heat, stir in cream and cook gently until sauce has thickened.
7. Pour sauce over steaks and serve immediately with potatoes or pasta, and salad. Garnish with thyme.

Notes