Filet mignon is a tender and flavorful cut of beef that is often considered one of the finest steaks available. It comes from the tenderloin, which is a muscle that runs along the backbone of the cow. Filet mignon medallions are small, round pieces of filet mignon that are typically about one inch thick. Due to their small size, they cook quickly and can be easily overcooked, so it’s important to pay attention to the cooking time.
Before cooking filet mignon medallions, it’s important to let them come to room temperature. This ensures that the meat cooks more evenly and helps to prevent it from becoming tough. To do this, simply take the medallions out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you plan to cook them. This will allow them to warm up slightly without getting too warm.
When it comes to cooking filet mignon medallions, the key is to keep it simple. Because the meat is already so flavorful and tender, you don’t need to do much to enhance the taste. Simply season the medallions with salt and pepper, and then sear them in a hot skillet with a bit of oil or butter. This will create a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the inside nice and juicy.
After searing the medallions, you can finish cooking them in the oven if desired. This will ensure that they are cooked to the desired internal temperature without overcooking the outside. Simply transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and let the medallions cook for a few minutes until they reach the desired level of doneness. Let the meat rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Filet mignon medallions are a delicious and elegant dish that can be enjoyed for a special occasion or any time you want to treat yourself to a gourmet steak. With a few simple steps, you can cook them to perfection and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.
Preparing filet mignon medallions
Filet mignon medallions are a delicious and tender cut of beef that are perfect for a special meal or a dinner party. The key to preparing filet mignon medallions is to ensure they are properly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Follow these simple steps to prepare mouthwatering filet mignon medallions:
- Start by selecting high-quality filet mignon medallions from your local butcher or grocery store. Look for medallions that are evenly sized and have a good amount of marbling.
- Remove the medallions from the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature. This will ensure even cooking.
- Season the medallions generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add additional herbs and spices such as garlic powder or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan to prevent sticking.
- Once the pan is hot, carefully place the medallions in the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your desired doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the medallions have reached the desired internal temperature. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 135°F (57°C).
- Remove the medallions from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a juicy and tender steak.
- Serve the filet mignon medallions with your favorite sides and sauces. Some popular accompaniments include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a rich red wine sauce.
With these simple steps, you can easily prepare restaurant-quality filet mignon medallions at home. Enjoy!
Choosing the right cut
When it comes to cooking filet mignon medallions, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. The filet mignon comes from the tenderloin area of the beef, which is known for its tenderness and melt-in-your-mouth texture. This cut of meat is often considered one of the most prized and expensive cuts available.
Here are a few tips to help you choose the right cut of filet mignon for your dish:
- Look for well-marbled meat: Marbling refers to the small streaks of fat that are evenly distributed throughout the meat. This fat not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the meat moist and tender during cooking. Look for filet mignon that has a good amount of marbling for the best results.
- Consider the thickness: Filet mignon medallions are typically cut to be about 1 to 2 inches thick. Thicker cuts are more forgiving when it comes to cooking and allow for a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- Choose a reputable source: Buying filet mignon medallions from a trusted butcher or reputable source is important to ensure the quality and freshness of the meat. They will be able to provide you with the best cuts available and offer guidance on cooking techniques.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you choose the right cut of filet mignon medallions for your meal. Remember, the quality of the meat will greatly impact the outcome of your dish, so it’s worth investing in a high-quality cut for the best results.
Seasoning and Marinating
Before cooking your filet mignon medallions, it is important to season and marinate them to enhance their flavor and tenderness.
Start by patting the medallions dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasoning adhere better to the meat.
Next, season the medallions generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The seasoning will not only add flavor to the meat but also create a nice crust when searing.
You can also add additional herbs and spices to the medallions, such as garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary, to further enhance the taste. However, be careful not to overpower the natural flavor of the filet mignon.
Once the medallions are seasoned, place them in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour over your choice of marinade, which can be a simple mixture of olive oil and Worcestershire sauce, or a pre-made marinade from the store.
Cover the medallions with the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. If using a bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat evenly.
Marinate the medallions in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but preferably for a few hours or overnight. The longer they marinate, the more flavor they will absorb.
Before cooking the filet mignon medallions, remember to discard the marinade and pat them dry once again to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve a better sear and prevent the meat from steaming instead.
Note: Always follow food safety guidelines when handling raw meat and marinating.
Preheating the grill
Before cooking the filet mignon medallions, it’s important to preheat the grill to ensure even cooking and searing. Follow these steps to properly preheat your grill:
- Make sure the grill is clean and free from any leftover debris or residue. This will help prevent any unwanted flavors or burning.
- Turn on the grill and set it to medium-high heat. This will allow the grill to reach the desired temperature for searing the medallions.
- Close the lid and let the grill heat up for about 10-15 minutes. This will ensure that the grill grates are hot enough for a good sear.
- While waiting for the grill to preheat, prepare the filet mignon medallions by seasoning them with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
Once the grill is fully preheated, it’s time to cook the filet mignon medallions. Following these preheating steps will help you achieve a perfectly cooked and flavorful dish.
Cooking on the grill
Grilling filet mignon medallions can create a delicious and flavorful dish. Here are some tips to ensure a successful grilling experience:
- Preheat the grill: Start by preheating your grill to a high heat. This will help sear the meat and lock in the juices.
- Prepare the filet mignon: Season the filet mignon medallions with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasoning. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Oil the grill grates: Use a brush or paper towel to oil the grill grates. This will help prevent the meat from sticking to the grill.
- Grill the filet mignon: Place the medallions on the hot grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness.
- Let it rest: Once cooked to your liking, remove the filet mignon from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Serve and enjoy: Slice the filet mignon medallions against the grain and serve them hot. They pair well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Grilling filet mignon medallions is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this tender cut of beef. With these tips, you’ll be able to create mouthwatering grilled filet mignon medallions that will impress your family and friends.
Resting and serving
Once the filet mignon medallions are cooked to your desired doneness, it’s important to let them rest before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful, tender steak.
Transfer the cooked filet mignon medallions to a cutting board and tent them loosely with foil. Allow the steaks to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This short resting period will help the juices settle back into the meat.
After the filet mignon medallions have rested, it’s time to serve them. Carefully remove the foil and transfer the steaks to individual serving plates. You can serve them as they are, or pair them with your favorite sauce or side dish.
Remember, filet mignon medallions are best enjoyed when cooked to your preferred level of doneness, whether it’s rare, medium-rare, medium, or well done. So be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the perfect steak for your taste.
FAQ
What is filet mignon?
Filet mignon is a steak cut from the tenderloin of a beef. It is known for its tenderness and rich flavor.
How do I cook filet mignon medallions?
To cook filet mignon medallions, heat a skillet over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Season the medallions with salt and pepper, then sear each side for about 2-3 minutes for medium-rare doneness. Let the medallions rest for a few minutes before serving.
What can I serve with filet mignon medallions?
Filet mignon medallions pair well with a variety of side dishes such as roasted potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a green salad. You can also serve them with a sauce like béarnaise or red wine reduction to enhance the flavor.
How should I season filet mignon medallions?
Filet mignon medallions can be seasoned with a simple mixture of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. You can also add some garlic powder or herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional taste.