Sometimes steak by itself is a bit boring. Well at least for me it can be a bit bland. While at the same time, I have always had an appreciation for a good sauce. So on the infrequent occasions when I desire a big old hunk of rare meat, my mind immediately turns to what I can prepare that will enhance the flavor of the meat.

Now please know that I don’t need a lot of sauce, but a bit is always nice. And I especially appreciate a sauce that is easy to prepare and not too, too unhealthy. So when I found this recipe on the Allrecipes site, I became a very excited carnivore. And as it turns out, with very good reason.

This sauce was simply delicious. And just a delightful accompaniment to Mr. C’s beautifully grilled tenderloin steaks. I added some tiny potatoes roasted in olive oil and herbs, a crisp cucumber salad, and a nice hearty red wine to the menu, and this summer dinner on the deck was perfection personified.

So next time you want to take your grilled steaks or ground beef patties to a new level, fix this wonderful sauce and surprise your family or friends. I promise you will not regret the short amount of time it took you to make this sauce. (Or the short time it takes your family or friends to thank you for your effort!)

4 T. (½ stick) unsalted butter

1 lg. shallot, minced

2 c. sliced fresh mushrooms

1 garlic clove, finely minced

1 c. beef broth

1/3 c. dry red wine

1 T. Worcestershire sauce

¼ tsp. kosher salt  

freshly ground black pepper

1 bay leaf

1/8 tsp. dried thyme, or more to taste  

1 tsp. cornstarch

2 T. cold water

Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the shallot and cook until the shallot has softened and turned translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the mushrooms and stir until they begin to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Whisk in the beef broth, wine, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue to cook, uncovered until the sauce reduces slightly, about 10 minutes.

Dissolve the cornstarch in the cold water, and stir into the simmering sauce until thickened. Serve over your favorite steak or choice of protein.