Black Peppercorn Ahi Tuna Steak

1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
Salt to taste
4 ahi tuna steaks, 6 ounces each
3 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup cognac
1 tablespoon chopped shallot
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces linguini, cooked according to package directions

Rub black pepper and salt on both sides of tuna steaks. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in an 8-inch frying pan. Place tuna steaks in the pan and fry over medium-high heat until desired doneness. Flambé steaks with the cognac, then remove steaks from the pan and set aside.

Add shallot to the pan and fry on medium heat for 1 minute. Add the chicken broth, cream and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Place linguini on serving plates, place a tuna steak on top of linguini, then pour the pepper sauce over the tuna and serve.

Makes 4 servings.