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Filet mignon

When one thinks of a romantic dinner, the classic dish of Filet Mignon often comes to mind. Buttery, succulent, and downright delectable, this beef cut is sure to please even the most sophisticated of foodies.

Filet mignon


A filet mignon is taken from the tenderloin of a cow. It is an oval-shaped cut of meat best served cooked rare or medium-rare in order to preserve its delicate flavor and juicy texture. Often seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic, filet mignon is sometimes sautéed in butter and olive oil, but it can also be grilled, broiled, or optioned up with a curated combination of herbs and spices for extra pizzazz.

The result? A juicy morsel of premium beef that's guaranteed to melt in your mouth, full of flavor and with a tenderness that you won't find in any other cut of steak. What's more, filet mignon pairs well with a variety of side dishes to create a complete meal. From wild mushrooms to roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a fresh salad, you can explore a world of flavor that's sure to tantalize the taste buds.

All in all, filet mignon is the perfect dinner to indulge in a romantic setting. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary or just looking for something special to impress a dinner guest, this classic steak is sure to satisfy. So when you're in the mood for something truly outstanding and unique, give filet mignon a try - you won't be disappointed!

The origin of Filet mignon

Filet mignon is a classic dish, of French origin, renowned for its succulent delight and delicate butteriness. It is one of the most iconic dishes of French haute cuisine, with records indicating it has been on the menu of many fine dining establishments since the 18th century. However, its beginnings are shrouded in mystery.

Some say Filet mignon originated from the Mediterranean region during the reign of the Roman Empire, where slabs of beef were wrapped in bacon or prosciutto for additional flavor and moistness. Others posit that the dish was actually invented by the French nobleman Philippe de Mignon, Viscount of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, who was known for his culinary genius and love of rare delicacies.

Whatever its true origin may be, Filet mignon is undoubtedly a timeless dish – one that we still savor today. Its celebrated tenderness comes from the cut of meat – taken from the small end of the tenderloin – and its propensity to melt in the mouth like butter, which makes it a coveted dish at upscale restaurants around the world.

The preparation of this dish varies depending on the chef, though it typically involves pan searing or grilling the filets, along with a variety of accompaniments such as herbs, spices, and sauces. Many favor the classic filet mignon - served with a red wine sauce and mushrooms - while others opt for more creative recipes, infusing the filets with flavors such as mustard and Dijon or shallot and tarragon.

No matter which way you prepare it, Filet mignon is sure to please and delight. A dish fit for a king or queen, this timeless specialty is truly one of the greatest culinary accomplishments of all time.

FAQs about Filet mignon

How is filet mignon supposed to be cooked?

Filet mignon is typically cooked to medium-rare, which is 145 degrees Fahrenheit internally. To achieve this, it should be cooked for about 4 minutes per side on a hot pan or grill. Be sure to let the filet rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking before serving it.


What is filet mignon vs steak?

Filet mignon is a very tender cut of beef that comes from the small end of the tenderloin. Because of its tenderness and delicate flavor, it is considered the most prized of all steaks. Filet mignon is usually cooked rare or medium-rare to preserve its tenderness and flavor.

Steak is a generic term used to refer to any cut of beef suitable for grilling or frying. It can be taken from any part of the cow, from the tenderloin to the ribeye. Steaks are usually tougher than filet mignon, but they still have a great beefy flavor.


What is so special about filet mignon?

Filet mignon is a cut of beef that is particularly tender and lean, making it a highly sought-after steak for its delicate texture and rich flavor. It is one of the most expensive cuts of beef because it is so tender and requires minimal seasoning to bring out the flavor. The French name literally means "dainty filet" due to its small size and shape, making it ideal for preparing steak dishes.


Which is better filet mignon or ribeye?

This is largely a matter of personal preference. Filet mignon is generally considered to be the more tender and buttery cut of steak, while ribeye is known for its bold flavor and marbling. Both cuts can make a delicious steak dinner!


Types of Filet mignon

Filet mignon is a staple of high-end restaurants and dinner parties alike, offering an array of succulent flavors that tantalize the taste buds. As a dish, it lends itself to a variety of approaches, so no matter your preferences there’s a type of filet mignon that suits everyone.

The classic filet mignon is a cut of beef tenderloin which has been cut into thick medallions, which are then cooked in butter or oil and finished with a wine sauce. This preparation results in a juicy and tender steak, making it a great option for those who like their steak more on the rare side.

A variation of the classic filet mignon is the béarnaise filet. Unlike the classic option, thisfilet mignon is marinated in a béarnaise sauce prior to being seared and grilled. This adds a richer flavor and a nice crunchy texture to the steak. Béarnaise can also be served as a side condiment for a more traditional filet mignon dish.

For those looking for something a little more adventurous, there is the stuffed filet mignon. Chopped herbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, spinach, or mushrooms are some of the ingredients that are usually used to stuff the medallions of beef. The mixture is then rolled up, secured with twine, and roasted in the oven until done.

Finally, there is the bacon-wrapped filet mignon. Slivers of bacon are wrapped around slices of beef tenderloin, giving them a delicious smoky flavor. After the slivers of bacon have been added, the pieces of steak are seared in a hot pan and finished off in the oven.

No matter what type of filet mignon you choose, you can’t go wrong. Choose the one that appeals to you the most, and get ready to savor the unique flavors and textures of this classic culinaric delicacy.