Boil the beef and let it cool, then cut it into small pieces, preferably into fine strips. Cut the other ingredients, such as peppers, onions and pickles, into strips. Mix everything together carefully in a bowl. With ketchup, mayonnaise and cognac. Season to taste with salt, cayenne pepper and lemon juice. Let the salad stand for about 2 hours, preferably not in the refrigerator, but in a dark, cool place.