Ingredients

Steaks:
2 Welsh sirloin steaks, trimmed of the outer layer of fat
2 tbsp black peppercorns
2 tbsp white peppercorns
75g unsalted butter
2 glugs of high-quality Cognac
A pinches of salt

Homemade Fries:
5-6 non-floury potatoes, such as Charlotte
1 litre sunflower or vegetable oil

Peppered Beans:
2 handfuls fine green beans, topped and tailed
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method

Step 1:
To prepare the homemade fries, peel the potatoes and slice into evenly portioned matchstick-sized pieces. Add the oil to a large frying pan or wok to cook on a medium heat for around 15 mins. When the fries become crisp and golden, remove them onto kitchen paper to set aside in a warm place.

Step 2:
While the fries are cooking, crush the peppercorns in a mortar and put through a sieve to get rid of any excess fine powder. Press the crushed peppercorns into one side of each sirloin steak.

Step 3:
Heat 50g of butter in a large frying pan until it begins to foam, then add the steaks, peppercorn-side down. Cook the steak on each side for your preferred time, then rest the meat for 30 seconds after cooking.

Chef's Tips

Rare – 2 minutes each side
Medium – 4 minutes each side
Well Done – 6 minutes each side