Sirloin Steak With Mushrooms, Thyme and Sweet Red Wine

(recipe by Argiro Barbarigou, Argiro Everyday Greek)

Serves 4Ingredients:

• 4 sirloin steaks(3,5 cm in thickness)
• 3 tbsp greek extra virgin olive oil
• 1 red greek onion, very finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 16 white mushrooms, peeled and cut in slices
• 1 tea cup of dried porcini(wild mushrooms)
• ⅓ tea cup brandy METAXA
• ¾ tea cup of sweet red wine(Mavrodafini)
• 1 spring of fresh thyme or dried thyme
• a pinch of grated nutmeg
• 1 bay leaf
• salt and pepper

Step One

 Place the dried porcini mushrooms in a bowl and rinse them well  remove any soil remnants. Fill the bowl up with boiled water, cover with a small plate and leave them for 20 minutes to allow them to absorb water and become soft.

Step Two

 Meanwhile use a deep frying pan or a wide casserole to warm the olive oil. Brown the steaks over high heat for 1 minute each side. Add the finely chopped onion and the garlic and leave for 2-3 minutes, until they become translucent. Add the brandy and allow the alcohol to evaporate. Squeeze the excess liquid out of the porcini and add them to the casserole, along with the white mushrooms. Follow with the wine, bay leaf, thyme and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper. Turn steaks around. Do not prod because their juices will seep out. Put the lid on, reduce the heat and simmer 6-7 minutes.

Step Three

  

 Remove the steaks and place them on a platter. Increase the heat and boil the sauce for 2-3 minutes until syrupy. Pour the sauce over steaks and serve with mash potato or green salad (worked great with rice also 😁)

Poftă Bună!!!!