Porcini-Seasoned Steak au Poivre

Mushroom powder sounds illicit, but it’s actually a secret-weapon umami bomb. We pulverize dried porcini mushrooms, mix them with salt and pepper, then rub it all over steaks for intense seasoning. We also stir some into water for an instant broth for making a full-flavored pan sauce. Crème fraîche, instead of heavy cream, gives the sauce body and richness. Avoid moving the steaks until halfway through cooking. They will release easily when properly seared.