Beef Stroganoff

Directions

1. 1
   In each of 2 large skillets, melt 1 1/2 tablespoons of the butter.
2. 2
   Add the onion to one skillet and the mushrooms to the other.
3. 3
   Season both with salt and pepper and cook over high heat until the onion is softened and the mushrooms are browned and tender, about 5 minutes.
4. 4
   Off the heat, add the Cognac to the mushrooms.
5. 5
   Cook over high heat until evaporated, about 10 seconds.
6. 6
   Add the mushrooms to the onion and wipe out the skillet.
7. 7
   Add the stock to the mushrooms and boil until nearly evaporated, 5 minutes.
8. 8
   Stir in the creme fraiche and mustard and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes; keep warm.
9. 9
   In the empty skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in the oil.
10. 10
    Season the meat with salt and pepper and add it to the hot skillet.
11. 11
    Cook over high heat, turning once, until lightly browned in spots but still rare, about 2 minutes.
12. 12
    Scrape the meat and any juices into the mushroom sauce and simmer just until heated through, 1 minute.
13. 13
    Serve right away, with the rice pilaf.