How to make Wine & Balsamic Marinated Filet Mignon
This Wine & Balsamic Marinated Filet Mignon guarantees a delightful experience for your taste buds. The marinade enhances the natural flavors of the filet mignon, bringing out rich, delicious notes. Let’s grab our ingredients and start cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound filet mignon
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon rosemary (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon thyme (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the red wine, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well until combined.
- Marinate the Fillet: Place the filet mignon in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
- Preheat the Grill or Oven: If you are grilling, preheat your grill to high heat. If roasting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the Filet: Remove the filet from the marinade and let it rest for about 15 minutes at room temperature. Add the filet to the grill or oven. For medium-rare, cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. For medium, aim for about 5-6 minutes per side.
- Rest and Serve: Let the filet rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Wine & Balsamic Marinated Filet Mignon
This recipe is a hit for several reasons! First, the combination of red wine and balsamic vinegar adds depth and complexity to the meat. The herbs uplift the flavorful profile, offering a perfect balance. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for special occasions.
Nutritional Benefits
Filet mignon is a lean cut of beef, providing a high-quality source of protein and essential vitamins like B12 and iron. By marinating it in wine and vinegar, you not only enhance flavor but also infuse antioxidants from the wine, contributing to a healthier meal option.
What to Serve With Wine & Balsamic Marinated Filet Mignon
Pair this delectable dish with sides that complement its roasty flavors. Here are some excellent choices:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their creaminess balances the savory beef.
- Roasted Asparagus: The slight bitterness contrasts beautifully with the sweet marinade.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp greens and tangy dressing add freshness.
- Red Wine: Don’t forget a glass of the same red wine used in the marinade!
How to Store Wine & Balsamic Marinated Filet Mignon
To store any leftovers, allow the filet to cool completely. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days. For longer storage, it’s recommended to freeze the cooked filet, where it can last up to three months.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
- Do Not Skip the Marinade Time: The longer the steak marinates, the better it tastes. For best results, let it sit overnight.
- Don’t Overcook the Meat: Use a meat thermometer to achieve your desired level of doneness without risking dryness.
- Rest Before Slicing: This step is crucial for maintaining juiciness. Cutting too soon can lead to a dry steak.
Variations
- Herb Variations: Switch up the herbs according to your preference. Thyme and parsley work well too.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Different Cuts of Meat: While filet mignon is fantastic, this marinade works nicely with sirloin or ribeye.
FAQs
1. Can I marinate the filet mignon overnight?
Yes! Marinating overnight allows the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat, offering a richer taste.
2. How can I tell when my filet mignon is done?
A meat thermometer is best. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, look for 140-145°F (60-63°C).
3. What if I don’t have red wine?
You can substitute with beef broth or a mixture of grape juice and vinegar. The flavor will change slightly, but you’ll still achieve a tasty result.
This Wine & Balsamic Marinated Filet Mignon is sure to impress anyone you serve it to. Happy cooking!
Wine & Balsamic Marinated Filet Mignon
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon rosemary (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon thyme (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Main Ingredient
- 1 pound filet mignon
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix the red wine, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well until combined.
- Place the filet mignon in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Cooking
- If you are grilling, preheat your grill to high heat. If roasting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove the filet from the marinade and let it rest for about 15 minutes at room temperature. Add the filet to the grill or oven. For medium-rare, cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. For medium, aim for about 5-6 minutes per side.
- Let the filet rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy!