Green peppercorns grow on the same vine as the black peppercorns you use in your pepper mill. The difference is the green ones are picked young, while the black have been allowed to mature and dry. Though they are occasionally available still fresh on the branch, flown in directly from Southeast Asia, green peppercorns are always available preserved in brine or freeze-dried. This classic French recipe employs them in a deliciously pungent sauce for veal steaks, though boneless pork loin chops or chicken breasts can stand in nicely.
02Put olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat. Add veal steaks and cook until lightly browned, 3 to 4 minutes, then turn and cook for 2 minutes more. Remove and keep warm. Wipe skillet clean, then add butter and diced shallot. Season lightly with salt and cook, stirring, until shallot is soft and beginning to color, about 3 minutes.
03Turn heat to high, add peppercorns and cook for 1 minute. Add stock and simmer until reduced by nearly half, 2 to 3 minutes. Add crème fraîche and brandy and stir to incorporate. Return veal to pan and continue simmering until sauce thickens a bit, about 2 minutes more.
04Distribute steaks among 4 warmed plates. Spoon sauce over steaks, sprinkle with parsley and crispy shallot, if using, and serve immediately.