Jillian Hamill, a culinary savant with a deep passion for grilling and barbecuing, holds an esteemed degree from the Culinary Institute of America. Prior to her decision to divulge her unique grilling methods to the world, she honed her skills in multiple Michelin-starred establishments. Jillian's expertise, now available through Grill Matey, embodies the perfect blend of professional training and practical experience.
Grilling a filet mignon to perfection requires a delicate balance of technique and attention to detail. As an expert in grilling and barbecuing, I'm here to guide you through the process step by step.
1. Start with a high-quality filet mignon: The first step to grilling a perfect filet mignon is choosing a high-quality cut of meat. Look for well-marbled steaks with a deep red color. The marbling adds flavor and juiciness to the meat.
2. Preheat your grill: Preheating your grill is essential to ensure even cooking. For a gas grill, preheat it to medium-high heat (around 400°F). If you're using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly lit and covered in gray ash before cooking.
3. Season the filet mignon: Keep the seasoning simple to let the natural flavors of the filet mignon shine. Sprinkle both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add a touch of garlic powder or your favorite dry rub for extra flavor.
4. Oil the grill grates: Prevent the filet mignon from sticking to the grill by oiling the grates. Dip a folded paper towel in vegetable oil and, using tongs, rub it over the grates. This will create a non-stick surface.
5. Grill the filet mignon: Place the filet mignon on the preheated grill. For a 1-inch thick steak, grill for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 135°F.
6. Use the 2-zone grilling method: To achieve the perfect sear on the outside and a juicy interior, use the 2-zone grilling method. Start by searing the filet mignon over direct heat for a couple of minutes on each side to develop a nice crust. Then, move the steak to the cooler side of the grill and continue cooking until it reaches your desired doneness.
7. Let it rest: After grilling, remove the filet mignon from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
8. Serve and enjoy: Slice the filet mignon against the grain and serve it immediately. You can pair it with your favorite side dishes like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Remember, practice makes perfect when it comes to grilling filet mignon. Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and cooking times to find your preferred flavor and doneness. And if you're looking for more grilling tips and recipes, be sure to check out our website, Grill Matey, for a wealth of information to enhance your grilling experience. Happy grilling!