Perfectly Cooked Filet Mignon

Description

Filet mignon is a prized cut of beef known for its exceptional tenderness and rich flavor. This premium steak is often considered the king of steaks due to its melt-in-your-mouth texture. Cooking filet mignon to perfection can transform a special dinner into an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe guides you through the steps to achieve a perfectly cooked filet mignon, whether you prefer it rare, medium-rare, or well-done.

Ingredients

• 4 filet mignon steaks (6-8 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme

Step-by-Step Instructions – Filet Mignon

1. Prepare the Steaks:
   • Remove the filet mignon steaks from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
   • Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This step helps to achieve a good sear.
   • Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Preheat the Pan:
   • Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot. A properly heated pan is crucial for achieving a perfect sear on the filet mignon.
3. Sear the Steaks:
   • Add the olive oil to the hot pan and swirl to coat.
   • Place the filet mignon steaks in the pan, ensuring they do not touch each other. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms.
   • Add the butter, garlic cloves, rosemary, and thyme to the pan.
4. Baste the Steaks:
   • Tilt the pan slightly to pool the melted butter. Use a spoon to baste the steaks with the flavorful butter for added richness and flavor.
5. Finish Cooking:
   • For a medium-rare filet mignon, transfer the pan to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes. Adjust the time according to your desired level of doneness:
     • Rare: 4-5 minutes
     • Medium: 7-9 minutes
     • Medium-well: 10-12 minutes
6. Rest the Steaks:
   • Remove the filet mignon from the oven and transfer to a plate. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the filet mignon with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the luxurious taste of a perfectly cooked steak.

Tips and Variations – Filet Mignon

• Herb Butter: Enhance the flavor by adding a pat of herb butter on top of each steak just before serving. To make herb butter, mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt.
• Sauce Options: Serve the filet mignon with a classic sauce like béarnaise, peppercorn, or red wine reduction for an elevated dining experience.
• Grilled Filet Mignon: For a smoky flavor, grill the steaks over medium-high heat, following the same seasoning and resting steps.
• Stuffed Filet Mignon: Create a pocket in each steak and stuff with blue cheese or garlic herb cheese before cooking for a delicious surprise.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 600mg

Historical Facts about Filet Mignon

This steak, which means “dainty filet” in French, comes from the smaller end of the tenderloin, a muscle that does very little work, making it exceptionally tender. This cut is highly prized in French cuisine and was first popularized in Parisian restaurants. The tenderloin itself runs along both sides of the spine, and this steak is typically cut from the smaller end, known as the “tail” end. Because of its tenderness and size, this steak is often considered a luxurious and expensive cut of beef.

The popularity of filet mignon in the United States soared in the mid-20th century as American diners developed a taste for more refined and elegant dishes. Today, it is a staple in steakhouses and fine dining restaurants, celebrated for its delicate texture and subtle flavor. Unlike more marbled cuts of beef, this steak is leaner, making it a healthier option for those looking to enjoy a premium steak experience without excessive fat.

Filet mignon’s reputation as the ultimate steak makes it a favorite choice for special occasions, romantic dinners, and gourmet meals. Its versatility allows it to be paired with various side dishes, sauces, and wines, enhancing its already impressive profile. From simple pan-seared methods to more elaborate preparations, this steak remains a timeless classic in the culinary world.

The key to mastering this steak lies in its simplicity. With just a few high-quality ingredients and proper cooking techniques, anyone can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The combination of a perfect sear, flavorful basting, and proper resting ensures that each bite of this steak is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.

Filet mignon’s roots trace back to early French cuisine, where the technique of carefully selecting and preparing tender cuts of meat was refined. The term itself appears in French culinary literature dating back to the 19th century, signifying a shift towards appreciating the nuanced textures and flavors of different cuts of beef. French chefs mastered the art of cooking filet mignon, often incorporating it into sophisticated dishes that highlighted its tenderness and subtle taste. This emphasis on quality and finesse laid the groundwork for filet mignon’s esteemed status in modern cuisine.

In America, the rise of steakhouse culture in the 20th century played a pivotal role in popularizing filet mignon. As American palates became more sophisticated, the demand for premium, high-quality steaks surged. Steakhouses across the country began featuring filet mignon prominently on their menus, often showcasing it as the pinnacle of fine dining. This trend was further bolstered by the advent of food media, with cooking shows and culinary magazines extolling the virtues of this luxurious cut. Today, filet mignon is synonymous with gourmet dining and continues to be celebrated for its unparalleled tenderness and refined flavor.

In conclusion, this steak is a cut of beef that offers an unparalleled dining experience. Its tender texture, rich flavor, and versatility make it a standout choice for any occasion. By following this recipe, you can confidently prepare and enjoy a perfectly cooked filet mignon that will impress even the most discerning palates.