Introduction to BBQ Filet Mignon

bbq filet mignon recipe. BBQ filet mignon is a dish that combines the tenderness of filet mignon with the rich flavors of barbecue. Filet mignon, which translates to “dainty filet” in French, is a cut of beef taken from the small end of the tenderloin. It is known for its buttery texture and mild flavor, making it a popular choice for special occasions. When paired with the bold flavors of barbecue, filet mignon becomes a truly unforgettable dish.

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History of BBQ Filet Mignon

The concept of BBQ filet mignon is a relatively modern creation, as filet mignon has traditionally been cooked using more delicate methods such as pan-searing or oven roasting. However, with the rise of outdoor cooking and the popularity of barbecue, chefs and home cooks began experimenting with grilling filet mignon. The result is a dish that is both familiar and innovative, combining the classic flavors of barbecue with the luxury of filet mignon.

Nutritional Information

Filet mignon is a lean cut of beef, making it a relatively healthy option for those looking to indulge in a special occasion meal. A 3-ounce serving of filet mignon contains approximately 150 calories, 3 grams of fat, and 25 grams of protein. When paired with the bold flavors of barbecue, the nutritional content of BBQ filet mignon will vary depending on the ingredients used in the marinade and sauce.

Ingredients and Equipment

To make BBQ filet mignon, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:

1-2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 ounces each)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup barbecue sauce (see below for recipe)
Wood chips or chunks (optional)
Grill or grill pan
Meat thermometer
Tongs or spatula

Marinade Options

One of the key components of BBQ filet mignon is the marinade. A good marinade will add flavor to the filet mignon and help to tenderize it. Here are a few marinade options to consider:

Classic BBQ Marinade: Mix together olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Asian-Inspired Marinade: Mix together soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
Spicy Marinade: Mix together olive oil, chili flakes, garlic, cumin, and coriander.

Grilling Techniques History of BBQ Filet Mignon

Grilling is a crucial step in making BBQ filet mignon. Here are a few grilling techniques to consider:

Direct Heat Grilling: Grill the filet mignon directly over high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Indirect Heat Grilling: Grill the filet mignon over low heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Sous Vide Grilling: Grill the filet mignon after cooking it sous vide to ensure a perfectly cooked interior.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

To make BBQ filet mignon, follow these step-by-step cooking instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together the marinade ingredients.
Marinate the Filet Mignon: Place the filet mignon in a large zip-top plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the filet mignon and massage the meat to coat it evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using wood chips or chunks, add them to the grill according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Remove the Filet Mignon from the Marinade: Remove the filet mignon from the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Grill the Filet Mignon: Grill the filet mignon over direct heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the filet mignon. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 130-135°F.
Let the Filet Mignon Rest: Once the filet mignon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the filet mignon to retain its tenderness.
Serve the Filet Mignon: Slice the filet mignon against the grain and serve it with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad.

Barbecue Sauce Recipe

To make a delicious barbecue sauce to serve with your BBQ filet mignon, follow this recipe:

1 cup ketchup
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth. Brush the sauce over the filet mignon during the last 5 minutes of grilling.

bbq filet mignon recipe

Recommended Side Dishes

Here are a few side dish ideas that pair well with BBQ filet mignon:

Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini are a natural pairing with BBQ filet mignon.
Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes are a comforting side dish that pairs well with the rich flavors of BBQ filet mignon.
Salad: A simple green salad or a more substantial grain salad are both great options to serve with BBQ filet mignon.
Grilled Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered with butter and seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika is a delicious side dish that pairs well with BBQ filet mignon.

Variations of the Recipe

Here are a few variations of the BBQ filet mignon recipe to consider:

Different Seasoning Options: Try using different seasoning options such as garlic and herb, lemon and pepper, or spicy Cajun seasoning.
Alternative Cooking Methods: Try cooking the filet mignon using alternative methods such as pan-searing, oven roasting, or sous vide.
Different Types of Wood: Try using different types of wood such as hickory, oak, or mesquite to add unique flavors to the filet mignon.

Conclusion

BBQ mignon is a delicious and impressive dish that is perfect for special occasions. With its tender texture and rich flavors, it is sure to impress your family and friends. By following the step-by-step cooking instructions and using the recommended ingredients and equipment, you can create an exceptional BBQ filet mignon dish that will be remembered for years to come. Whether you are a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Grilling Filet Mignon

When grilling filet mignon, there are several common mistakes to avoid in order to ensure that your BBQ filet mignon turns out tender and flavorful every time. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:

Overcooking: Filet mignon is best served medium-rare, so it’s essential to avoidcooking can make the file overcooking it. Overt mignon tough and dry.
Not letting the meat come to room temperature: Before grilling, it’s essential to let the filet mignon come to room temperature. This helps the meat cook more evenly and prevents it from cooking too quickly on the outside.
Skipping the resting period: After grilling, it’s essential to let the filet mignon rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to retain its tenderness.
Over-marinating: If using a marinade, be sure not to over-marinate the filet mignon. Over-marinating can make the meat too salty or acidic.
Using dull knives to cut the finished steak: Using dull knives to cut the finished steak can cause the meat to tear and become uneven.

Tips for Cooking Filet Mignon to Different Levels of Doneness

To cook filet mignon to different levels of doneness, follow these tips:

Rare: Cook the filet mignon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 120-130°F.
Medium-rare: Cook the filet mignon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F.
Medium: Cook the filet mignon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F.
Medium-well: Cook the filet mignon for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 150-155°F.
Well-done: Cook the filet mignon for 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160-170°F.

Using a Meat Thermometer to Achieve the Perfect Level of Doneness

To use a meat thermometer to achieve the perfect level of doneness, follow these steps:

Insert the thermometer: Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the filet mignon, avoiding any fat or bone.
Check the temperature: Check the temperature of the filet mignon and compare it to the desired level of doneness.
Adjust the cooking time: Adjust the cooking time based on the temperature reading. If the filet mignon is not yet at the desired temperature, continue cooking it in 30-second increments until it reaches the desired temperature.
Let it rest: Once the filet mignon has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Additional Tips for Achieving Tender and Flavorful Filet Mignon

To achieve tender and flavorful filet mignon, follow these additional tips:

Use high-quality filet mignon: Choose high-quality filet mignon that is fresh and has a good marbling score.
Season the filet mignon: Season the filet mignon with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings before grilling.
Use a hot grill: Use a hot grill to sear the filet mignon and lock in the juices.
Don’t press down on the filet mignon: Avoid pressing down on the filet mignon with your spatula, as this can cause the juices to escape and the meat to become tough.
Let it rest: Let the filet mignon rest for a few minutes before serving, as this allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to retain its tenderness.

By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure that your BBQ filet mignon turns out tender and flavorful every time.