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Grilling the perfect filet mignon can be a daunting task, but with a little bit of knowledge and technique, you can achieve a tender, juicy, and flavorful steak every time.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of grilling a perfect filet mignon, sharing tips and tricks to ensure that your steak comes out perfectly cooked and delicious.
How To Grill Filet Mignon
Choose the right cut of steak
The first step to grilling the perfect filet mignon is to choose the right cut of meat. Look for a steak that’s at least 1 1/2 inches thick and has good marbling, which are small flecks of fat throughout the meat that will help to keep the steak moist and tender during the cooking process.
Season the steak
Once you’ve chosen your steak, it’s time to season it. Keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or add your own favorite spices and seasonings to create a unique flavor profile. Be sure to season both sides of the steak generously, pressing the seasoning into the meat to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Preheat your grill
Before grilling your filet mignon, it’s important to preheat your grill to a high temperature (around 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit). This will help to create a strong sear on the outside of the steak, locking in the juices and creating that delicious crust that’s characteristic of a perfectly cooked filet steak.
Grill the steak
Once your grill is preheated, it’s time to grill the filet mignon. Place the steak on the grill and let it cook undisturbed for around 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip it over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side. For a medium-rare steak, look for an internal temperature of around 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit, while a medium steak will be around 140-145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Let the steak rest
When the filet mignon is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it’s tender and juicy when you cut into it.
Serve and enjoy
Once the steak has rested for a few minutes, it’s time to slice and serve. Use a sharp knife to cut the steak against the grain, creating slices that are tender and easy to chew. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
A Few More Tips For Grilling Filet Mignon
In addition to these basic steps, there are a few other tips and tricks you can follow to ensure your filet steak turns out perfectly every time.
For example, consider using a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the meat, as this will help you achieve the perfect level of doneness without overcooking the steak. You can also experiment with different grilling techniques, such as searing the steak on high heat before moving it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking.
It’s also important to note that filet steak is a relatively lean cut of beef, which means that it may not have as much flavor as other cuts like ribeye or sirloin. To enhance the flavor of your filet steak, consider serving it with a flavorful sauce or topping, such as a red wine reduction, compound butter, or sautéed mushrooms.
How Is Filet Mignon Different From Other Popular Types Of Steak?
A filet mignon is a popular cut of beef that’s known for its tenderness and subtle flavor. It’s a relatively lean cut of meat, which means that it’s not as marbled with fat as some other cuts of steak, such as ribeye or strip steak. This can make it a good choice for those looking for a healthier cut of meat, but also means that it may require a little more attention to prevent overcooking and drying out.
Compared to other cuts of steak, a filet mignon is typically smaller and thinner, with a more cylindrical shape. It’s also often cut from the tenderloin, which is a long, narrow muscle that runs along the spine of the cow. This muscle is not used as much as other muscles in the cow’s body, which contributes to the filet’s tenderness.
In terms of flavor and texture, a filet mignon is often described as having a mild, buttery flavor and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s typically cooked by grilling, broiling, or pan-searing, and can be seasoned with a variety of spices, rubs, and marinades to add flavor and variety.
A filet is generally considered to be a more luxurious and upscale option. It’s often associated with special occasions and fine dining, and is typically more expensive than other cuts of beef.
Overall, a filet steak is a delicious and versatile cut of beef that’s perfect for grilling and can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic steak dinners to more creative recipes like steak salads and stir-fries. Whether you’re a steak lover or simply looking to add a little variety to your meal rotation, a filet is definitely worth trying.
Final Thoughts
Grilling the perfect filet steak takes a combination of skill, knowledge, and technique, but with a little practice and some careful attention to detail, anyone can master the art of cooking a delicious and tender steak.
By choosing the right cut of meat, seasoning the steak, preheating your grill, grilling the steak to your desired level of doneness, letting it rest, and slicing it against the grain, you can create a steak that’s sure to be the stuff of legend.
