Perfect Char-grilled Filet Mignon
Perfect Char-grilled Filet Mignon Recipe - Delicious and Easy
Introduction
Filet mignon is a popular and luxurious cut of beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor. When char-grilled to perfection, it becomes a truly indulgent and mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress any guest.
History
The origins of filet mignon can be traced back to France, where it was traditionally served as a small, tender cut of beef. Over time, it has become a staple on menus around the world, prized for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 x 8 oz (227 g) bottle of zesty italian salad dressing
- 2 beef tenderloin fillets, 1.5 to 2 inches thick
- 2 slices of bacon
- 2 tbsp of Lea and Perrins steak sauce
- 2 tsp of water
How to prepare
- Pour the salad dressing into a shallow pan.
- Place the steaks in the pan and let them marinate for 3 to 4 hours.
- Prepare a fire in a charcoal grill.
- Wrap a strip of bacon around each steak, securing it with a toothpick.
- Grill the steaks over hot coals for about 8 minutes per side (5 minutes per side for rare).
- Baste the steaks with a mixture of steak sauce and water.
- For perfect steaks, turn them only once.
Variations
- For a different flavor profile, try marinating the steaks in a different type of dressing or sauce, such as balsamic vinaigrette or teriyaki marinade.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to let the steaks marinate for at least 3 to 4 hours to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
- Use a charcoal grill for that authentic char-grilled flavor, but a gas grill can also be used if necessary.
- For the best results, cook the steaks over hot coals and only turn them once to achieve a perfect char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the char-grilled filet mignon with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques
Char-grilling is the best technique for cooking filet mignon, as it imparts a smoky flavor and creates a delicious char on the outside of the steak.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have zesty Italian salad dressing, you can use any other type of marinade or dressing that you prefer.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the steaks in the salad dressing ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to grill them.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the char-grilled filet mignon on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or a drizzle of steak sauce for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Filet mignon pairs well with a full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, to complement the rich flavors of the beef.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover filet mignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the steaks in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
- Each serving of filet mignon contains approximately 400 calories.
Carbohydrates
- Filet mignon is a low-carb food, with less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving.
Fats
- Each serving of filet mignon contains approximately 20 grams of fat, with 8 grams of saturated fat.
Proteins
- Filet mignon is a rich source of protein, with each serving providing around 40 grams.
Vitamins and minerals
Filet mignon is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, essential nutrients for overall health and well-being.
Alergens
This recipe contains soy (from the salad dressing) and gluten (from the steak sauce), so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.
Summary
Filet mignon is a high-protein, low-carb dish that is rich in essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12. However, it is also high in fat and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Summary
Char-grilled filet mignon is a decadent and delicious dish that is perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner for two. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own backyard. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer evening, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for a barbecue dinner. As I watched her effortlessly prepare the char-grilled filet mignon, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.
Margaret had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She explained to me that the key to a perfect char-grilled filet mignon was in the marinade. It consisted of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. The flavors were simple yet bold, enhancing the natural taste of the tender filet mignon.
As I watched Margaret season the steaks and let them marinate for a few hours, I could almost taste the deliciousness that awaited us. The anticipation grew as she fired up the grill and the aroma of the sizzling meat filled the air. The sound of the steaks searing on the hot grates was music to my ears.
Once the filet mignon was cooked to perfection, Margaret served it with a side of grilled vegetables and a glass of red wine. The first bite was like a symphony of flavors exploding in my mouth. The meat was juicy and tender, with a slightly charred crust that added a delicious smokiness.
I couldn't get enough of the char-grilled filet mignon. It was the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication, a true culinary masterpiece. I begged Margaret to teach me how to make it, and she graciously agreed.
Over the next few weeks, I visited Margaret often, eager to learn the art of making the perfect char-grilled filet mignon. She taught me the importance of choosing high-quality meat, properly seasoning it, and cooking it just right to achieve that mouth-watering char.
I practiced diligently, grilling filet mignon after filet mignon until I perfected the technique. I experimented with different marinades and cooking times, always striving to improve my skills. With each batch, I gained more confidence and excitement for the dish.
Finally, the day came when I felt ready to showcase my newfound talent. I invited my family over for a barbecue dinner and proudly served them my char-grilled filet mignon. The looks of delight on their faces as they took their first bites were all the validation I needed.
From that day on, the recipe for perfect char-grilled filet mignon became a staple in my repertoire. I shared it with friends and family, passing down the tradition just as Margaret had done for me. It became a symbol of love and connection, a dish that brought people together around the dinner table.
As the years went by, I continued to refine the recipe, always striving for perfection. I added my own twist to it, incorporating new herbs and spices to enhance the flavors even more. But no matter how many variations I tried, the original recipe remained close to my heart.
Now, as I sit in my kitchen, preparing another batch of char-grilled filet mignon, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that led me here. The recipe that once captivated me with its simplicity has become a part of who I am, a legacy that I will pass down to future generations.
And as I take that first bite of the perfectly char-grilled filet mignon, I am reminded of the joy and satisfaction that cooking brings me. It is a gift that I will cherish forever, a reminder of the love and memories shared around the dinner table.
Categories
| Bacon Recipes | Beef Tenderloin Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Prepared Salad Dressing Recipes |