August 13th is National Filet Mignon Day, honoring the exquisite specialty cut of beef. Typically sourced from the tenderloin of a steer or heifer, this steak is renowned for its tenderness and flavor, making it a culinary delight. #NationalFiletMignonDay

Origins and History

The history of filet mignon is rooted in fine dining and culinary tradition:

• French Cuisine: The term "filet mignon" comes from French, with "filet" meaning "thick slice" and "mignon" meaning "dainty" or "cute." The cut has been a staple in French cuisine for centuries.
• Butchery: Filet mignon is cut from the smaller end of the tenderloin, which is found on the back of a cow. The tenderloin is a non-weight-bearing muscle, resulting in an exceptionally tender piece of meat.
• Culinary Prestige: Over the years, filet mignon has become synonymous with luxury and fine dining, often served at high-end steakhouses and gourmet restaurants.

The Significance of Filet Mignon

Filet mignon holds a special place in the culinary world for several reasons:

• Tenderness: It is known for being one of the most tender cuts of beef, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is highly prized by meat lovers.
• Flavor: While filet mignon is less marbled than other cuts like ribeye, it offers a subtle, rich flavor that pairs well with various sauces and seasonings.
• Versatility: This cut can be prepared in numerous ways, including grilling, pan-searing, broiling, and roasting, making it a versatile choice for different culinary techniques.

Ways to Celebrate National Filet Mignon Day

There are many enjoyable and delicious ways to celebrate National Filet Mignon Day:

1. Cook at Home: Prepare filet mignon at home using your favorite recipe. Whether you grill, sear, or roast it, cooking at home allows you to experiment with different flavors and techniques.
2. Visit a Steakhouse: Treat yourself to a meal at a high-end steakhouse known for its excellent filet mignon. Enjoy the experience of dining out and savoring a professionally prepared steak.
3. Host a Dinner Party: Invite friends and family over for a dinner party featuring filet mignon as the main course. Pair it with complementary sides and wines for a gourmet dining experience.
4. Experiment with Recipes: Try new and creative recipes that feature filet mignon. Consider dishes like filet mignon with a red wine reduction, steak au poivre, or filet mignon wrapped in bacon.
5. Learn About Beef Cuts: Take some time to learn about different cuts of beef and their characteristics. Understanding where filet mignon comes from can enhance your appreciation for this special cut.
6. Share on Social Media: Share photos and recipes of your filet mignon creations on social media using the hashtag #NationalFiletMignonDay. Connect with other food enthusiasts and get inspired by their posts.
7. Pair with Fine Wines: Pair your filet mignon with a selection of fine wines. Reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir complement the flavors of the steak beautifully.

Classic Filet Mignon Recipe

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for classic filet mignon:

Ingredients

• 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6-8 ounces each)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme

Instructions

1. Season the Steaks: Generously season the filet mignon steaks with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
2. Preheat the Pan: Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until hot. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the pan.
3. Sear the Steaks: Place the steaks in the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, creating a nice crust. Do not move the steaks during this time to ensure even browning.
4. Add Butter and Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, garlic, and rosemary or thyme to the pan. As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the steaks with the melted butter and aromatics.
5. Cook to Desired Doneness: Continue cooking and basting the steaks until they reach your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature (125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).
6. Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
7. Serve: Slice and serve the filet mignon with your favorite sides and sauces.

Fun Facts About Filet Mignon

• High-End Cut: Filet mignon is often one of the most expensive cuts of beef due to its tenderness and limited availability from each cow.
• Cooking Tip: Because filet mignon is lean, it’s important not to overcook it to prevent it from becoming dry. Cooking it to medium-rare or medium ensures the best texture and flavor.
• Alternative Names: In France, filet mignon refers specifically to the tenderloin of pork, while in the United States, it is used to describe the beef tenderloin cut.

Conclusion

National Filet Mignon Day is a celebration of one of the most exquisite cuts of beef. Whether you’re cooking at home, dining out, or hosting a dinner party, this day is all about savoring the tenderness and rich flavor of filet mignon. On August 13th, take the time to enjoy this luxurious steak and appreciate the culinary tradition behind it.