What’s the difference between Cognac and brandy? All Cognac is grape brandy, a distillate of wine. However, Cognac is a brandy produced in the region surrounding the town of Cognac, in central France. It is double distilled using pot stills and then aged for at least two years. It must be made from a specific group of white grape varieties. Grape brandy can be made anywhere, from any grapes and does not require double distillation or long aging. Of course, Cognac isn't just for drinking ...~
* FILET MIGNON WITH COGNAC CREAM SAUCE *
1/2 stick unsalted butter * 1/4 c. sweet paprika * 1/4 c. olive oil * Bay leaves * 4 (2 inch) filet mignon * 3 tbsp. Cognac * 1/2 c. finely chopped onion * 1/4 c. dark beer (optional) * 1 tbsp. ketchup * 1 tsp. Worcestershire * 1/4 c. fresh minced parsley * 1/4 c. heavy cream * Salt and Pepper
~1/2 stick unsalted butter * 1/4 c. sweet paprika * 1/4 c. olive oil * Bay leaves * 4 (2 inch) filet mignon * 3 tbsp. Cognac * 1/2 c. finely chopped onion * 1/4 c. dark beer (optional) * 1 tbsp. ketchup * 1 tsp. Worcestershire * 1/4 c. fresh minced parsley * 1/4 c. heavy cream * Salt and Pepper
Blend butter, paprika, salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat oil with bay leaf on high heat, discard bay leaf and saute the filets for 12-15 minutes, turning. Take out and keep warm. Pour off oil and deglaze the skillet with cognac. Add butter mixture, onion and cook low until onion is cooked. Stir in beer, ketchup, Worcestershire and parsley. Bring to a boil. Stir in cream. Season with salt and pepper and serve over filet mignon with rice. Serves 4. ~ Chef ~
