* Or To Taste. Mix meat and salt. Shape mixture into 4 patties, each about 3/4 of an inch thick. Press pepper into both sides of the patties. Cook the patties in a large skillet over medium-high heat, turning once, until the desired doneness is reached, about 8 minutes. Drain off the fat. Sprinkle the cognac over the patties, immediately ignite, if desired. Remove patties to a warm platter. Stir the wine into the drippings in the skillet. Heat just to boiling, stirring constantly. Serve sauce over the patties.