People around the U.S. celebrate Steak Au Poivre Day on September 9 every year. The goal of the occasion is to pay homage to one of the most delicious and succulent dishes consumed today. ‘Steak au poivre’ is a French phrase that means ‘steak with pepper.’ This mouth-watering meal consists of filet mignon, a tender and more expensive cut of tenderloin beef encased in a coating of crushed peppercorns that adds a lot of texture and flavor. This delectable treat is well worth an annual celebration.
History of Steak Au Poivre Day
Although Steak Au Poivre was originally a French dish, it has been adapted to suit several international cuisines like Italian and Mexican. It is primarily a filet mignon steak cooked with crushed or coarsely splintered peppercorns and sometimes served with pan peppercorn sauce. The origin of steak au poivre goes back to a traditional culinary style of serving steaks with a sauce. What distinguishes steak au poivre, however, is the specific preparation and the subtle mix of flavors.
The peppercorn sauce, which is by far the main feature of the dish, is a cream sauce with peppercorns, also prepared with butter, garlic, and often a dash of liquor (usually wine or brandy). The steak is seared on top of a layer of crushed peppercorns. It is then left to rest for a few minutes for maximum absorption of the flavorful juices before being served with the peppercorn sauce.
As steaks became available in various regions of the world, with the invention of refrigeration, cooks could develop and share their own steak recipes. Steak au poivre quickly became a favorite among French cuisine aficionados. Today, the dish isn’t only a symbol of class and high taste it is also considered one of the prime steak dishes, which accounts for its international popularity and adaptation to different styles.
A meal of such high regard is worthy of an annual celebration, putting it next to some of the most delightful delicacies available today.
Steak Au Poivre Day timeline
The first steaks are prepared during the Medici era in Italy as part of communal gatherings.
The word steak is first mentioned during this period, meaning meat on a stick.
Steakhouses and clubs are some of the earliest examples of the growing popularity of steak on the menu.
Several restaurants in France begin developing recipes for what later becomes the famous steak au poivre.
Steak Au Poivre Day FAQs
What is the best way to cook a steak?
There are a variety of ways to cook a steak, each with specific characteristics. However, most people tend to prefer medium-rare, as the outer part of the steak is sizzled, with the insides left juicy and tender.
How many levels of doneness are there?
There are five levels of doneness to a steak, each requiring specific temperatures. These include rare, medium rare, medium, medium, and well done.
When was the first steak ever made?
There are many theories about the first steak in history. However, this tradition can be traced back to Renaissance Italy, where it was a significant part of communal celebrations.
Steak Au Poivre Day Activities
Prepare your own steak au poivre
The most enjoyable way to celebrate is to make and enjoy this savory meal as it's relatively easy to prepare. Go online to find precise instructions and serve it with your favorite sides such as fries or fresh salad.
Host a gathering
Originally, steaks were prepared to be enjoyed at large gatherings. Invite your friends and family over and serve them steak au poivre.
Check out different recipes
Since steak au poivre is an old culinary tradition, there are bound to be several ways to prepare it. Check out different recipes and enjoy the full nuances of a well-prepared steak au poivre. Try Mexican style with chilies, add mustard or wrap it in bacon.
5 Interesting Facts About Steak
Grilling is the best
Grilling a steak is the best way to prepare it, and is important for the maximum absorption of flavor.
Nordic roots
The word steak has Nordic origins referring to some of the earliest ways of cooking meat.
The world’s biggest steak consumer
Argentina consumes more steak than any other country, as it is an important part of the local cuisine.
Cow’s meat goes a long way
It is estimated that 40% of a cow’s meat can be used to prepare steaks.
Cooking requires specific temperatures
Each level of doneness of a steak requires a specific temperature and not an exact cooking time.
Why We Love Steak Au Poivre Day
Steak au poivre is fabulous
Let’s be honest, it’s one of the best ways to prepare steak. Steak au poivre is the optimal savory and classy meal. It pairs well with wine and beer and is absolutely delicious.
It’s the most interesting steak
What distinguishes it from other steaks prepared with sauce is the distinctive meeting of flavors. The delicacy of the peppercorn sauce combined with the strong flavor of the steak is to die for.
It’s a culinary tradition
Steak au poivre is a remarkable culinary tradition, resulting from years of experimentation with different ingredients to explore the full potential of this dish. Try it out for yourself!
Steak Au Poivre Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | September 9 | Monday |
| 2025 | September 9 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | September 9 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | September 9 | Thursday |
| 2028 | September 9 | Saturday |
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