Background and History
Filet mignon, a luxurious cut of beef, is renowned for its tenderness and rich flavor. Originating from French cuisine, “filet” translates to “thick slice” and “mignon” means “dainty” or “cute.” This steak is cut from the tenderloin of the cow, a muscle that sees minimal use, resulting in its exceptionally tender texture. Filet mignon is often reserved for special occasions, romantic dinners, or celebratory meals.
Ingredients
- 2 filet mignon steaks, about 6-8 oz each
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
Remove the filet mignon steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This allows for more even cooking.
Seasoning
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
Preheat the Pan
Heat a skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil or butter to the pan and let it heat up until shimmering.
Searing the Steaks
Carefully place the seasoned filet mignon steaks in the hot pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
Adding Flavor
If using minced garlic, add it to the pan during the last minute of cooking, along with any fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, to infuse additional flavor into the steaks.
Resting
Once cooked to your liking, remove the filet mignon steaks from the pan and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender steak.
Serving
Serve the filet mignon steaks hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Pair with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Nutrition Facts: (per serving)
- Calories: 400
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 0g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 40g
Notes
For best results, choose high-quality, well-marbled filet mignon steaks.
Make sure not to overcrowd the pan while cooking to ensure proper searing and caramelization.
You can customize the seasoning with your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
Allergy Warning
This recipe contains beef. Please be cautious if you have allergies to beef or any other ingredients listed.
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