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Bourbon Pepper Steak Sauce

Wife with the Knife
This Bourbon Pepper Steak Sauce is a quick and flavourful way to take your steak or grilled meats to the next level. The rich, smoky bourbon combines perfectly with the bold pepper and aromatic spices, creating a sauce that’s both savoury and complex. Simply sauté, simmer, and season to create a delicious, restaurant-quality sauce that’s perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Condiments, Sauces
Cuisine Southern
Servings 1.5 cups

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 shallots (finely chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • ¼ cup bourbon whiskey
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp black peppercorns (crushed, see note #1.)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
  • Pour in the bourbon whiskey and allow it to reduce by half, stirring occasionally.
  • Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and crushed black peppercorns. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
  • Season the sauce with salt to taste.
  • Remove the sauce from heat and strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any solids.
  • Serve the Pepper Bourbon Steak Sauce atop or alongside your favorite steak or grilled meats.

Notes

  1.  
Crushed Black Peppercorns: These are whole peppercorns that have been broken into smaller pieces. To achieve this, use a mortar and pestle, a pepper grinder set to a coarse grind, or place the peppercorns in a resealable plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. Avoid turning them into a fine powder, as the coarser texture enhances both flavor and presentation, particularly in dishes like steak sauces.
Adjusting Consistency:
  • If the sauce is too thick, thin it out by adding a little more beef broth or heavy cream.
  • If it’s too thin, simmer it longer to reduce and thicken.
Flavor Variations: Enhance the sauce with additional ingredients, like:
  • Fresh herbs (e.g., thyme or rosemary).
  • A splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
  • A pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note.
Serving Suggestions: This sauce complements grilled steaks, roasted vegetables, and crusty bread as a dipping sauce.
Storing Leftovers: Transfer any leftover sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
 
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Keyword Bourbon, Bourbon Sauce, Gourmet sauces, Peppercorns, Roasted Pepper Sauce, Savoury Sauce, Steak Sauce