Filet Mignon braised with creamy shallot and peppercorn sauce is a dish that combines the tenderness of filet mignon with the richness of shallot and peppercorn cream sauce. This elegant meal is perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner.
Introduction
Imagine indulging in a luxurious dinner of tender filet mignon, perfectly complemented by a velvety cream sauce infused with shallots and peppercorns. This Filet Mignon with Creamy Shallot and Peppercorn Sauce recipe promises to elevate your dining experience, whether for a celebration or a cozy evening in.
Ingredients
To recreate this delectable dish, gather these simple yet premium ingredients:
- Filets: 4 filet mignon steaks (approximately 6 ounces each)
- Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- For the Creamy Shallot and Peppercorn Sauce:
- Butter: 1 tablespoon
- Shallots: 2, finely chopped
- Crushed Black Peppercorns: 1 tablespoon
- Cream: 1 cup
- Beef Broth: 1/2 cup
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: to taste
Preparation of Filet Mignon
Begin by generously seasoning the filet mignon steaks with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step ensures each bite is infused with savory flavor.
Searing the Filets
Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned filet mignon steaks until golden brown on both sides, achieving your desired level of doneness, typically 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Set the steaks aside to keep warm.
Making the Creamy Shallot and Peppercorn Sauce
Cooking the Shallots and Peppercorns
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, sauté the finely chopped shallots until they become translucent and fragrant, usually 2-3 minutes. Incorporate the crushed black peppercorns, cooking for an additional minute.
Adding Beef Broth and Deglazing
Pour in the beef broth, allowing it to simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This process, known as deglazing, enriches the sauce with concentrated flavors.
Incorporating Cream and Dijon Mustard
Next, add the cream and Dijon mustard to the skillet, stirring gently to combine all ingredients. Let the mixture simmer over low heat until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, typically 5-7 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
Serving
To serve, place each seared filet mignon steak on a plate and generously ladle the creamy shallot and peppercorn sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly cracked black pepper for an extra flourish of flavor.
Nutritional Information
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 720 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 servings
FAQs about Filet Mignon with Creamy Shallot and Peppercorn Sauce
What is filet mignon?
Filet mignon is a tender cut of beef known for its buttery texture and mild flavor, making it highly sought after in fine dining.
How do you achieve the perfect sear on filet mignon?
To achieve a perfect sear, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the filet mignon. Sear each side undisturbed for several minutes to develop a golden crust.
Can I substitute the filet mignon with another cut of beef?
While filet mignon is ideal for its tenderness, you can substitute with cuts like tenderloin steaks or ribeye for a slightly different flavor profile.
What makes the creamy shallot and peppercorn sauce special?
The creamy shallot and peppercorn sauce enhances the dish with a luxurious texture and a balanced peppery note, complementing the mildness of the filet mignon perfectly.
How can I adjust the sauce consistency?
If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash of beef broth or cream and adjust seasoning to taste until desired consistency is achieved.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to preparing Filet Mignon with Creamy Shallot and Peppercorn Sauce, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for any occasion. Enjoy the journey of creating and savoring this exquisite dish!