Ingredients:
- 2 cups beef stock or broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
- Heat butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until melted. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and thyme; cook until fragrant, around 1 minute.
- Pour in the red wine (if using), scrapping the bottom of the pan. Cook until reduced by half, about 5-10 minutes.
- Stir in the beef stock and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Allow au jus to simmer for 15-20 minutes, reducing slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Strain through a fine mesh strainer if a smoother consistency is desired.
- Keep warm until ready to serve.