This is a straightforward mignonette—with one small upgrade: I let the aromatics marinate and then strain the liquid to avoid chewing on peppercorns. Serve alongside plenty of fresh oysters
Coarsely crush the peppercorns using a mortar and pestle.
If you don’t have a mortar and pestle, set the peppercorns on a sturdy cutting board, and, using the bottom edge of a pot, firmly press down and forward on the peppercorns until each one is crushed.
Don’t be afraid to be aggressive.
Both methods will yield peppercorns of all different sizes, and that’s what you want.
Combine the peppercorns, half the shallots, and the vinegar in a bowl, stir, and let sit for 30 minutes.
Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl, reserving the vinegar and discarding the peppercorns and shallots.