In any restaurant, filet mignon will be the most expensive cut of steak. There are a few good reasons behind this. This steak cut is one of the tenderest of all beef and of the high quality too. Its availability is quite limited and it contains high amount of nutrients for your health. Given its superior texture, nutrition and cost, it’s important to learn how to cook filet mignon perfectly.
Filet Mignon and Steak Cuts
Filet mignon is cut from a cow’s tenderloin. The tenderloin is the softest type of beef. Unlike a brisket, this is a muscle that is rarely exercised during the animal’s life. It has very little connective tissue and this contributes to its tenderness. The tenderloin is also a small section, which makes it somewhat exclusive. Because it’s expensive, learn how to cook filet mignon properly to get value for your buck.
Health Benefits of Filet Mignon
Besides being one of the best sources of protein, filet mignon has an array of vitamins and minerals. One serving of filet mignon can contribute largely to your daily intake of iron. This tender cut also boasts high levels of phosphorus, potassium and magnesium. B vitamins are also prominent in filet mignon, and perform metabolic and disease-preventing functions.
Learning how to cook filet mignon is very good for your health. The vitamins and minerals it contains are important for your red blood cells, oxygen transportation, blood pressure regulation, bone and muscle health and fluid balance. If you have a heart condition, eat smaller portions and in moderation. Filet mignon has saturated fats that can damage arteries.
How to Cook Filet Mignon
There are 3 basic steps to learning how to cook filet mignon: seasoning, searing and baking.
Seasoning Filet Mignon
- Seasoning is the simplest step because filet mignon doesn’t require much of it. It is advisable to keep your seasoning simple and preferably dry. Too much can dissolve the tender tissue and break it apart. Make a dry rub with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder and other dry spices.
Pan-Searing Filet Mignon
Step 1:
Add 2 tablespoons of olive or sesame oil into a pan and heat. Place the filet mignon inside the pan and cook each side until a crust forms.
Step 2:
Preheat oven to 450 F and bake on a tray or dish until done. For a medium rare filet mignon, the internal temperature should be between 130 and 135 F. Medium steak temperatures range from 140-145 F and medium well from 155 to 160 F. If it’s lower than 130 F, it’s rare. Anything above 160 F is well done.
Filet mignon is a high-quality steak cut with excellent texture and flavor. It should be seasoned carefully with mild spices and cooked under close supervision. To ensure accuracy, it is advisable to use a meat thermometer and insert it in the middle of the steak for a reading. Once you learn how to cook filet mignon, serve with vegetables, mashed potatoes and sauces.
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