New Orleans Cut Strip Sirloin Steak with True Bordelaise Sauce

Instructions

1. Make the sauce first; it will take about an hour, although most of this needs little attention. In a saucepan, bring the wine to a simmer boil with the thyme, peppercorns and shallots. Reduce slowly to 1 cup of liquid.
2. Cut each of the steaks into two pieces resembling filets mignon. Generously season with salt and freshly-ground black pepper. Leave them out on the counter, covered with a sheet of waxed paper, for about a half-hour.
3. In a heavy skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 Tbs. butter until it sizzles. Put the steaks into the pan and sear them. They will stick to the pan at first. When they begin to break loose, turn them and sear the other side. When both sides are seared, move the steaks to a metal baking pan in the preheated oven at 375 degrees.
4. Strain the wine and the stock into a skillet and bring to a light boil while whisking to dissolve the juices and browned bits from the steaks. Reduce by about half over medium heat.
5. Check the steaks with a meat thermometer. For medium rare, look for 130 degrees. When they reach that point, turn the oven off and leave the oven door ajar.
6. Remove the sauce skillet from the heat and whisk in the remaining butter. Adjust seasonings with salt and pepper. Serve the steaks with the sauce right over them, saving some for adding later.