Mary Berry’s Green Peppercorn Sauce is a creamy pepper-based sauce made with crushed green peppercorns, shallots, cream, stock, and brandy. It’s traditionally served with steak but pairs wonderfully with poultry, pork, or roasted vegetables. The sauce strikes the ideal balance between creaminess, spice, and depth of flavour.
Butter – 1 tbsp
Shallots – 1 small, finely chopped
Green peppercorns in brine – 2 tbsp, drained and lightly crushed
Brandy (optional) – 1 tbsp
Beef or chicken stock – 150ml
Double cream – 100ml
Dijon mustard – 1 tsp
Salt and black pepper – to taste
(Optional: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.)
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent but not browned.
Stir in the green peppercorns and lightly crush them with the back of a spoon to release their flavour. Cook for about a minute to infuse the butter with their aroma.
Pour in the brandy (if using) and let it bubble for 30 seconds to allow the alcohol to evaporate. This step enhances the depth and richness of the sauce.
Add the stock and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly, concentrating the flavour.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream and Dijon mustard. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Taste and adjust seasoning with a little salt and black pepper. Serve immediately over steak, chicken, or vegetables.
Find it online: https://maryberrycooks.co.uk/mary-berry-green-peppercorn-sauce/