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Toasted Fennel and Cracked Peppercorn-Crusted Ribeye with Pomegranate-Shallot Reduction

Toasted Fennel and Cracked Peppercorn-Crusted Ribeye with Pomegranate-Shallot Reduction

This ribeye steak is beautifully crusted with toasted fennel and cracked peppercorns, served with a sweet and tangy pomegranate-shallot reduction.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 2 portions
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 steaks Ribeye steaks About 1.5 inches thick
  • 2 tablespoons Fennel seeds Toasted
  • 1 tablespoon Cracked black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon Sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 1 cup Pomegranate juice
  • 2 Shallots, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Honey
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter
  • Fresh pomegranate seeds For garnish
  • Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Grill or Cast-Iron Skillet

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Take the ribeye steaks out of the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
  2. In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the fennel seeds until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. In a spice grinder or mortar and pestle, combine the toasted fennel seeds, cracked black peppercorns, and sea salt. Grind to a coarse consistency.
  4. Rub each ribeye steak with olive oil. Generously coat both sides of the steaks with the fennel and peppercorn mixture, pressing it into the meat to adhere.
  5. Preheat a grill or cast-iron skillet over high heat. Once hot, add the ribeye steaks and sear for about 4-5 minutes on one side.
  6. Flip the steaks and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy (130°F for medium-rare).
  7. Remove the steaks from the heat and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
  8. In a saucepan, add the chopped shallots and sauté over medium heat until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
  9. Pour in the pomegranate juice, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 10-15 minutes.
  10. Stir in the unsalted butter until melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste.
  11. Slice the rested ribeye steaks against the grain. Drizzle the pomegranate-shallot reduction over the steak slices.
  12. Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

For a twist, consider adding a splash of red wine to the reduction for more depth of flavor.