Description

Get ready for a sophisticated culinary experience with Seared Filet Mignon with Shallot Peppercorn Cream Sauce. This dish combines the unparalleled tenderness of filet mignon with the richness of a creamy sauce made with shallots and peppercorns. It's perfect for impressing guests at special dinners or transforming an ordinary meal into a restaurant-quality feast. Despite its refined appearance, the recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, ensuring that both beginners and seasoned cooks can enjoy this delightful dish without complications.

Ingredients

• For the steaks:
• 4 filet mignon steaks (about 6 ounces each)
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the shallot peppercorn cream sauce:
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon crushed black peppercorns
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt to taste

Preparation Method

Preparing the steaks:
Start by seasoning the filet mignon steaks with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring even coverage. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the steaks in the skillet, avoiding any movement to allow a golden, flavorful crust to form. Cook each side for about 4 to 5 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting the time to your preferred doneness. Remove the steaks from the skillet and keep them warm, covering them with aluminum foil.

Making the sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped shallots and sauté until soft and translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the crushed peppercorns, stirring to release their aroma.

Next, pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and incorporate the browned bits left from the steaks. Add the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, stirring until the sauce is smooth. Let the mixture simmer over low heat until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt as needed.

Plating and serving:
Place each filet mignon on an individual plate and generously spoon the creamy shallot peppercorn sauce over the top. For a final touch, garnish with fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley, and serve immediately.

Tips and Conclusion

For a classic accompaniment, serve this dish with gratin potatoes or buttery mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, a mix of grilled vegetables pairs beautifully. Another interesting variation is substituting the beef broth with dry red wine, which will add a more sophisticated flavor to the sauce.
Enjoying Seared Filet Mignon with Shallot Peppercorn Cream Sauce is like embarking on a journey of complex flavors and irresistible textures. This dish is a true celebration of the palate, combining ease of preparation with sophistication in presentation, making it a perfect choice for any special occasion. Explore other incredible recipes on our site and share this delight with your loved ones. Remember, every meal is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Bon appétit!