I remember the first time I tried a rich, creamy Stilton sauce with steak. It was during a trip to a small bistro tucked away in a cozy corner of the city. The steak was cooked perfectly, but that sauce? It was magic. The balance of flavors – sharp, creamy, and tangy – had me hooked. Ever since, I’ve been on a quest to recreate that experience at home. So when I stumbled upon Jamie Oliver’s Stilton sauce recipe, I couldn’t wait to give it a try. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple, with ingredients you might already have in your kitchen.
Jamie Oliver’s Stilton Sauce For Steak Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Stilton sauce for steak is one of those recipes that can elevate a regular steak dinner into something truly special. The sauce is rich, indulgent, and perfectly complements the hearty flavor of the beef.
Here’s the gist of it:
- Easy to prepare – No need for a ton of culinary experience.
- Comforting – The sauce is creamy and bold.
- Great for entertaining – A crowd-pleaser, especially for steak lovers.
What’s amazing about Jamie’s recipe is how he balances the strong flavors of Stilton with cream, garlic, and a touch of herbs, making it a delightful addition to a steak meal.
Ingredients Needed
Jamie’s recipe is simple and straightforward. You won’t need anything too exotic, which makes it accessible for everyday cooking.
Here’s What You’ll Need
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Stilton cheese (about 100g)
The star of the show. Choose a high-quality Stilton for a rich, deep flavor.
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Double cream (200ml)
This is what gives the sauce its luxurious, silky texture.
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Butter (50g)
Adds richness and helps in making the sauce smooth.
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Garlic (1 clove)
For depth and warmth. You can adjust this depending on how garlicky you like your sauce.
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Fresh thyme (a few sprigs)
A gentle herbal note to balance the richness of the cheese and cream.
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Salt And Pepper
To taste, as always.
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Beef stock (100ml)
Enhances the meaty flavors and adds a savory element.
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Optional: A Splash Of Brandy Or White Wine
If you’re feeling adventurous, this adds an extra layer of depth to the sauce.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Stilton Sauce For Steak
I remember the first time I followed this recipe. It felt like magic as I watched the sauce come together – the cream thickening, the Stilton melting in, and everything blending into a luscious, velvety concoction. Here’s how you can do it, too:
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the garlic (finely chopped) and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not burnt.
- Pour in the beef stock and bring it to a simmer, letting it reduce slightly. This intensifies the flavors.
- Stir in the cream and cook on low heat, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Add the Stilton cheese in chunks. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning if necessary.
- Optional: If you’re using brandy or wine, add it now. Let the sauce bubble for another minute to cook off the alcohol.
- Serve hot over your perfectly cooked steak. Pair with a side of veggies or a simple salad.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
One thing that always fascinates me about cooking is the science behind the ingredients. Take Stilton cheese, for example. It’s a blue cheese, meaning it’s aged with molds that create those characteristic veins of blue. This mold doesn’t just add a funky flavor. It also contains enzymes that break down the proteins and fats, which helps give the cheese its creamy texture.
- Double cream: The high fat content in double cream (around 48%) is key to that luxurious mouthfeel. When combined with the heat, it thickens and enriches the sauce without separating.
- Garlic: When garlic is sautéed, the sulfur compounds break down, turning sharp and spicy flavors into something much more subtle and mellow.
- Thyme: This herb isn’t just for flavor; it’s also packed with antioxidants, making it a tasty and healthy addition to any dish.
Expert Tips
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that take this sauce from good to great:
- Choose quality cheese: The flavor of the Stilton will really shine through, so don’t skimp on this one. Go for a creamy, well-aged Stilton.
- Don’t rush the sauce: Let the cream and cheese melt together slowly. This prevents any curdling and ensures a smooth texture.
- Season to taste: Always taste as you go, especially when working with cheese. Some Stiltons can be saltier than others, so adjust your seasoning accordingly.
- Use fresh thyme: The fragrance is unbeatable. Dried thyme won’t have the same impact, so try to use fresh for a bright herbal kick.
Recipe Variations
Jamie’s recipe is pretty perfect as it is, but if you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few variations you can try:
- Blue cheese swap: If Stilton isn’t available, try Roquefort, Gorgonzola, or any other creamy blue cheese. The flavor will differ slightly but still work great with steak.
- Add mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms and add them into the sauce for an earthy twist.
- Use different herbs: While thyme is perfect here, rosemary or sage could also pair well with the creaminess of the sauce.
- Spicy kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or some freshly ground black pepper for a little heat.
Final Words
Every time I make this sauce, I’m reminded of that bistro experience. The simplicity of the ingredients and the way they come together into something special is what cooking is all about. The sauce is rich, creamy, and indulgent but not too heavy, making it the perfect complement to a juicy steak. You don’t have to be a pro chef to pull it off, and it’s a recipe that will impress anyone at the table.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Stilton Sauce For Steak?
You’ll need Stilton cheese, cream, butter, garlic, and a bit of seasoning like salt and pepper.
Can I Make This Sauce In Advance?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve it.
What Kind Of Steak Pairs Best With Stilton Sauce?
A rich cut like ribeye or sirloin works great with the creamy, tangy Stilton sauce.