How to Cook Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon: A Culinary Delight

Before diving into the cooking process, it's essential to select high-quality ingredients:

1. Filet Mignon: Known for its tenderness and mild flavor, filet mignon is a premium cut from the tenderloin of beef. Look for thick, evenly-sized cuts for consistent cooking.
2. Beef Bacon: Opt for thinly sliced bacon with a good balance of meat and fat. This will ensure the bacon crisps up nicely while adding flavor and moisture to the filet.
3. Seasonings: Simple yet effective seasonings such as salt, freshly ground black pepper, and herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the meat's natural flavors.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Filet Mignon Trimming: Start by ensuring your filet mignon steaks are trimmed of excess fat and silver skin, which can hinder even cooking.
2. Seasoning: Season each filet with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can incorporate finely chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth.
3. Wrapping with Bacon Wrapping Technique: Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around the circumference of each filet mignon steak. Secure the bacon by gently pressing the ends into the steak or using toothpicks (which should be removed after cooking).
4. Preparing for Cooking Room Temperature: Allow the wrapped filets to come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before cooking. This ensures more even cooking throughout the steak.

Pan-Seared Method

1. Preparation: Begin by preheating a heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat. This type of skillet retains heat well and ensures an even sear.
2. Searing: Place the bacon wrapped filet in the skillet with the bacon seam-side down. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the bacon becomes crispy, and the steak develops a beautiful brown crust. Don’t forget to sear the edges by holding the filets with tongs and rolling them in the skillet.

Finishing in the Oven:

1. After searing, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the filets for 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 135-140°F (57-60°C).
3. Adjust the time according to your preferred level of doneness.
4. Once cooked, let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Grilling Method

1. Preparation: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400-450°F (200-230°C). Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
2. Grilling: Place the bacon-wrapped filets directly on the grill grates. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring an even sear. Rotate the filets halfway through each side’s cooking time to create appealing grill marks.
3. Indirect Heat: If the bacon causes flare-ups, move the filets to indirect heat (the more remarkable part of the grill) after searing, and cover with the grill lid to continue cooking.
4. Use a meat thermometer to check for the desired internal temperature of 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium-rare.
5. Adjust the cooking time for your preferred doneness.

Key Tips

1. Resting: After cooking, allow the steaks to rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the meat reabsorb its juices, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.
2. Temperature Monitoring: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure precise cooking. This tool helps avoid overcooking, preserving the filet’s delicate texture.
3. Even Cooking: Bringing the steaks to room temperature before cooking ensures more even heat distribution, resulting in a perfectly cooked filet mignon.

By mastering these cooking methods, you can create a perfectly cooked bacon wrapped beef tenderloin that impresses with its rich flavors and tender texture.

Serving Suggestions

1. Resting: Once your filet mignon wrapped in bacon reaches the desired doneness, rest for about 5 minutes. This rest period is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy steak.
2. Accompaniments: To complement the richness of the filet mignon, consider serving it with a variety of sides. Classic choices include garlic mashed potatoes, which add a creamy, comforting element, and roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, which provide a contrasting texture and freshness. For a lighter option, a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the meal beautifully.
3. Sauces: Elevate your dish with a sauce. A red wine reduction, creamy peppercorn sauce, or even a simple herb butter can add an extra layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tender beef and smoky bacon.

Tips for Success

1. Quality Matters: The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the final dish. Choose premium cuts of filet mignon and high-quality bacon. Freshly ground black pepper and kosher salt also make a noticeable difference in seasoning.
2. Temperature Control: Achieving the perfect doneness is essential. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, aim for 135-140°F (57-60°C). Remember that the temperature will continue to rise slightly during the resting period.
3. Wrapping Technique: Ensure the bacon is tightly wrapped around the filet mignon. If necessary, use toothpicks to secure the bacon, but remember to remove them before serving.
4. Cooking Method: Whether you pan-sear or grill, ensure the heat is sufficient to crisp the bacon while cooking the filet to perfection. Preheating the oven or grill is essential for consistent results.
5. Resting: Never skip the resting step. It allows the steak to reabsorb its juices, making each bite tender and flavorful.

By following these serving suggestions and tips, you can ensure your bacon-wrapped filet mignon is a stunning centerpiece that visually and gastronomically impresses.

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