What You’ll Need:
- 1 whole beef filet (about 4-5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- A meat thermometer
Step 1: Preparing the Beef Filet
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare the beef filet properly. Begin by trimming off any excess fat and silver skin from the meat. Tying the filet with kitchen twine at regular intervals will help it retain its shape during cooking. Let the filet sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes prior to cooking.
Step 2: Seasoning the Filet
Seasoning is crucial in bringing out the flavor of the beef filet. Rub the entire surface of the filet with olive oil to help the seasoning adhere. Generously season the filet with salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Ensure all sides are evenly coated.
Step 3: Prepare Your Cooking Method
Deciding how to cook your beef filet depends on your preference. The two most popular methods are grilling and roasting. If grilling, preheat your grill to high heat. For roasting, preheat your oven to 425°F.
Step 4: Cooking the Filet
If grilling, place the beef filet directly on the hot grill grates. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes or until a crust forms. Reduce the heat to medium and continue grilling for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the desired doneness is achieved.
If roasting, place the seasoned filet on a rack in a roasting pan. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the filet, ensuring it does not touch any bone. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches your preferred level of doneness.
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once the beef filet is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill or oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become tender. After resting, remove the twine and slice the filet into thick, juicy portions.
Serve your cooked beef filet with your favorite steak accompaniments, such as garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a red wine reduction sauce. Be prepared to impress your guests with your culinary prowess!
With this ultimate guide, you now have the knowledge and confidence to cook a whole beef filet like a pro. Whether you choose to grill or roast, the result will be a mouthwatering steak that will impress even the most discerning palates. Happy cooking!