filet mignon
Definition
Noun: 1. A specific cut of beef: A small, round, and very tender steak cut from the thicker end of a beef tenderloin. It is known for its lean texture, mild flavor, and is typically one of the most expensive cuts of steak.
Usage
- As a countable noun: It is used to refer to a single serving or multiple servings of this steak.
- For our anniversary, I ordered the filet mignon with a red wine sauce.
- The restaurant serves excellent filets mignons.
- Describing preparation: It is often described by its cooking method (e.g., grilled, pan-seared) and doneness (e.g., rare, medium-rare).
- He prefers his filet mignon grilled to medium-rare.
Advanced Usage
- In culinary contexts: The term is used precisely to distinguish this premium cut from other steaks like sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak. It is often the centerpiece of a fine-dining menu.
- As a standard for tenderness: In food writing and criticism, "filet mignon" is frequently cited as the benchmark for a tender cut of beef.
- The texture was as soft as a well-prepared filet mignon.
Variants and Related Words
- Filet (also fillet): A more general term for a boneless cut of meat or fish. "Filet mignon" is a specific type of beef filet.
- Tenderloin: The whole, long muscle from which the filet mignon is cut. The tapered end of the tenderloin is often sold as a smaller "filet" or used for other dishes.
- Tournedos: Another name for a small round steak cut from the tenderloin, very similar or identical to filet mignon.
- Châteaubriand: A large, thick cut from the center of the tenderloin, typically meant for two or more people.
Synonyms
- Beef tenderloin steak: A more descriptive, less specific synonym.
- Fillet steak: A common synonym, especially in British English.
Related Phrases
- Filet mignon wrapped in bacon: A classic preparation where the lean steak is wrapped with a slice of bacon before cooking to add fat and flavor.
- The signature dish is a filet mignon wrapped in applewood-smoked bacon.
Noun
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small steak cut from the thick end of a beef tenderloin
