2 shallots, sliced2-3 sprigs fresh green peppercorns (remove peppercorns from sprigs before using)½ cup stock (chicken, beef or vegetable)½ cup creamsplash Cognac
Fry the shallots in a little olive oil until golden. Drizzle in a tablespoon or two of stock - place over a medium heat.
Lift the skillet from the heat, drizzle in a splash of Cognac, swirl it and then burn off the alcohol.
Once the flame burns out, pour in the rest of the stock and the peppercorns. Simmer rapidly until the stock reduces by at least half before adding the cream. Turn down the heat and simmer gently until thickened.