Filet Mignon

how to charcoal grill filet mignon

How to Charcoal Grill Filet Mignon: A Flavorful Guide from Louisiana

Grilling filet mignon over charcoal can bring out the best flavors of this tender cut of meat. As a proud Louisiana native, I’ve perfected the art of charcoal grilling filet mignon, and I’m here to share my expertise with you. From choosing the right filet mignon to serving the perfect steak, follow these steps to create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends.

Choosing the Right Filet Mignon

When it comes to grilling filet mignon, selecting high-quality cuts is essential for a delicious end result. In Louisiana, we pride ourselves on sourcing fresh, well-marbled filet mignon from local butchers or specialty meat markets. Look for steaks that are about 1.5 inches thick for the best grilling results.

Preparing the Filet Mignon

Before grilling, let the filet mignon come to room temperature to ensure even cooking. Season the steaks generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. In Louisiana, we love to use a blend of Cajun spices for a hint of heat and complexity that elevates the flavors of the meat.

Preparing the Charcoal Grill

For charcoal grilling, choose high-quality charcoal and use a charcoal chimney starter to ensure even heat distribution. In Louisiana, we prefer hardwood lump charcoal for a clean, natural flavor that complements the filet mignon. Set up a two-zone fire by stacking charcoal on one side of the grill for direct heat and leaving the other side empty for indirect grilling.

Grilling the Filet Mignon

Place the seasoned filet mignon over the direct heat zone and sear each side for 2-3 minutes to create a beautiful crust. Then, move the steaks to the indirect heat zone and continue grilling until they reach the desired level of doneness. Remember to flip the steaks occasionally for even cooking.

Checking for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the filet mignon reaches the perfect internal temperature. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. Let the steaks rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite.

Serving the Perfect Filet Mignon

Once grilled to perfection, slice the filet mignon against the grain for maximum tenderness. In Louisiana, we love to serve grilled filet mignon with a side of creamy garlic mashed potatoes and a fresh green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. Don’t forget to pour a glass of your favorite red wine to complement the rich flavors of the steak.

Tips and Tricks

– Avoid flare-ups by keeping a close eye on the grill and adjusting the vents as needed.
– Experiment with different wood chips like hickory or mesquite for added smoky flavor.
– For extra decadence, top your grilled filet mignon with a pat of herb butter right before serving.

Related Questions:

Q: How long should I let the filet mignon rest after grilling?

A: It’s crucial to let the grilled filet mignon rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful steak.

Q: Can I marinate filet mignon before grilling?

A: While filet mignon is a tender cut of meat that doesn’t require marinating for tenderness, you can enhance the flavors by marinating the steak in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and citrus zest for a few hours before grilling.

Q: How can I prevent my filet mignon from sticking to the grill?

A: To prevent sticking, make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the filet mignon on them. Additionally, avoid moving the steaks around too much while grilling to promote beautiful grill marks and prevent sticking.

Outbound Resource Links:

The Kitchn: How to Grill the Perfect Steak on a Charcoal Grill

Weber: How to Grill Steak on Charcoal Like a Pro

Certified Angus Beef: Grilling and Roasting Instructions

Great steaks in Louisiana

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