Pepper-Crusted Filet Mignon

By Jackie618

Recipe from Martha Stewart

Filet mignons are often sold with a string tied around them to help keep their shape while cooking. Otherwise, tie them loosely with cotton kitchen twine yourself. (Be sure to remove strings before serving.)

Ingredients

• Red Wine Sauce, for serving (optional):
• 2 filet mignons, (5 to 6 ounces each, about 1 1/2 inches thick)
• Coarse salt and very coarsely ground pepper
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 tablespoons cold butter, cut up
• Coarse salt

Details

Servings 2
Adapted from marthastewart.com

Preparation

Step 1

1. Season filets very generously on both sides with salt and pepper (especially pepper), patting in firmly.
2. Heat oil in a small skillet over medium-high. Cook filets until desired doneness, 3 to 5 minutes per side (depending on thickness) for medium-rare.
3. Remove strings from filets, and serve with Red Wine Sauce, if desired.
4. To make Red Wine sauce: Place 1 cup red wine in a small saucepan; boil until reduced to 1/4 cup, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat; add 2 tablespoons cold cut-up butter, and swirl pan until butter is melted and sauce is thickened, about 1 minute. Season with coarse salt.