Cooking Guide and Recipes for Filet Mignon

Filet mignon is one of the most sought-after cuts of beef, known for its buttery tenderness, mild flavour, and luxurious texture. As one of the leanest and most tender cuts, it requires careful cooking to preserve its delicate quality. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about selecting, preparing, and cooking filet mignon, along with some delicious recipes to try at home.

Understanding Filet Mignon

What is Filet Mignon?

Filet mignon comes from the tenderloin, a muscle that runs along the spine of the cow. Since this muscle does not bear weight, the meat remains exceptionally tender but also lacks strong marbling compared to ribeye or striploin. Because of its mild flavour, filet mignon is often paired with rich sauces and buttery toppings to enhance its taste.

Choosing the Best Filet Mignon

When selecting filet mignon, look for the following qualities:

• Thickness: Ideally, 2 inches thick to ensure even cooking.
• Colour: Bright red, indicating freshness.
• Marbling: Though filet mignon is lean, slight marbling adds tenderness and flavour.
• Source: Choose grass-fed or organic beef for a richer taste and better quality.

Best Cooking Methods for Filet Mignon

Filet mignon can be cooked in several ways, each bringing out unique textures and flavours. Here are three popular methods:

1. Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Butter Basting

A quick and simple method that creates a beautiful crust while keeping the centre tender.

Ingredients:

• 2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme

Instructions:

1. Bring to Room Temperature: Let the steaks sit at room temperature for 30-40 minutes before cooking.
2. Season: Pat dry and generously season with salt and black pepper.
3. Preheat the Pan: Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and add olive oil.
4. Sear the Steaks: Place the steaks in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side without moving them.
5. Add Butter and Aromatics: Reduce heat, add butter, garlic, and rosemary. Baste the steaks by spooning melted butter over them for 1-2 minutes.
6. Rest Before Serving: Remove from heat and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

2. Oven-Roasted Filet Mignon

Perfect for ensuring even doneness with a gentle cooking process.

Ingredients:

• 2 filet mignon steaks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sear the Steak: Heat a skillet over high heat with olive oil and sear each side for 2 minutes.
3. Transfer to Oven: Place the skillet in the oven and cook for 5-10 minutes, depending on desired doneness.
4. Check Temperature:
   • Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
   • Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
   • Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
   • Well-Done: 160°F+ (71°C+)
5. Rest Before Serving: Let rest for 5-10 minutes.

3. Grilled Filet Mignon

Grilling adds a smoky char while keeping the inside juicy.

Ingredients:

• 2 filet mignon steaks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Grill: Heat to 450-500°F (232-260°C).
2. Season the Steaks: Rub with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the Steaks:
   • Grill for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
   • Adjust time based on preferred doneness.
4. Rest and Serve: Let rest before slicing.

Delicious Filet Mignon Recipes

1. Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce

A rich, flavourful sauce that complements the mild beef.

Ingredients:

• 2 filet mignon steaks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup red wine
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Steak: Use the pan-searing method and set steaks aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté shallots in butter. Add red wine and beef broth, simmer for 5 minutes until reduced.
3. Finish and Serve: Pour sauce over the steaks and serve.

2. Garlic Herb Butter Filet Mignon

A simple yet decadent way to enjoy filet mignon.

Ingredients:

• 2 filet mignon steaks
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme
• ½ tsp lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Make the Garlic Butter: Mix butter, garlic, parsley, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the Steak: Use the oven or pan-searing method.
3. Top with Butter: Place a dollop of garlic butter on each steak before serving.

3. Filet Mignon with Mushroom Cream Sauce

A creamy, savoury sauce enhances the steak’s mild taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 filet mignon steaks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Steak: Use the pan-searing method.
2. Make the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter. Add beef broth and heavy cream, simmer until thick.
3. Serve: Pour sauce over the steaks.

Filet mignon is an elegant and easy-to-cook steak that pairs well with various sides and sauces. Whether you prefer pan-seared, grilled, or oven-roasted, these methods ensure a perfect result every time. Try out these recipes and elevate your steak night at home!

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