Marsala Sauce

Ingredients

1/4 cup finely chopped shallots
1 ounce butter (1/4 stick)
1/2 teaspoon cracked peppercorn
1 bay leaf
1 sprig fresh thyme or 1/4 tsp dried
3/4 cup Marsala
1/4 cup red wine
6 ounces Demi-Glace
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions

Melt butter in a sauce pan and saute shallots, thyme, bay leaf, and peppercorns for (approximately 5-6 minutes). Add Marsala and red wine, and reduce to half (approximately 5-6 minutes). Add Demi-Glace and stir with a whisk until demi-glace is dissolved. Simmer for approximately 5-6 minutes (until sauce has thickened). Strain sauce, add heavy cream (if desired), and serve over beef, veal, or chicken. Note: sauteed mushrooms may be added to the finished sauce, if desired.