The Perfect Steakhouse Filet
{who it's by}: 
{what it is}: Main Dish
{prep time}: 
{cook time}: 
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{serves}: 2
 
It's so simple you don't even need a recipe - but just in case, here it is.
Ingredients
  • 2 beef tenderloin (filet mignon) steaks, about 1/2 pound each
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil or other neutral oil, preferably with a high smokepoint (I've also used a mixture of butter and olive oil)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
  1. Allow the meat to come to room temperature before all else. About an hour on the counter will do the trick. Season all sides generously - and make it rain with the salt especially.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Get a cast-iron or stainless steel (nonstick won't give you the sear you're looking for) oven-proof skillet going over high heat. When it's super-hot and starts to smoke a little, add the oil.
  3. Drop the steaks into the pan and sear each side for about 2 minutes - until you get a rich, brown crust on all sides. Use tongs to turn the meat.
  4. Place a pat of butter on top of each steak, and put the skillet in the oven. Set the timer for 6 minutes for a perfect medium-rare.
  5. Transfer the steaks to a plate. Cover in aluminum foil and let them rest for 10 minutes. This ensures that all of the delicious juices stay where they belong - inside the steaks! And they'll continue to cook a bit more, too.
  6. Serve immediately, preferably with your favorite Cab.
Recipe by 20something cupcakes at http://www.20somethingcupcakes.com/2012/02/how-to-video-cook-the-perfect-steakhouse-filet/