Filet Mignon with Thai Peanut Sauce
Highlighted under: World Taste Recipe Collection
I absolutely adore filet mignon, and when I discovered the beautiful fusion of flavors in Thai peanut sauce, I knew I had to try it. The tender, juicy steak paired with the sweet and spicy sauce creates an unforgettable dining experience. Every time I make this dish, I'm reminded of how perfectly the rich umami of the beef complements the creamy, nutty notes of the sauce. It’s not just another steak recipe; it’s an adventure for the taste buds that I can't resist sharing.
When I first attempted this recipe, I wanted to elevate the classic steak experience with an exotic twist. The secret to the perfect filet mignon lies in allowing it to rest at room temperature before cooking, which ensures even cooking throughout. As it cooked, the heavenly aroma of the Thai peanut sauce filled my kitchen, making it hard to wait for dinner!
Serving the filet with a generous drizzle of the sauce was the icing on the cake. The balance of flavors—savory, spicy, and slightly sweet—was a delightful match for the richness of the beef, taking it to a whole new level. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll understand why it's become a staple in my kitchen!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and tender filet mignon paired with a creamy peanut sauce
- Delightful balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors
- An exciting twist to a classic steak dinner
Perfecting the Filet Mignon
When cooking filet mignon, achieving the right doneness is key. For a medium-rare finish, cook the steak for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side over medium-high heat. You'll know it's ready when a crust forms and the meat has a beautifully brown exterior with a warm, red center. Use a meat thermometer if you want to be precise: aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F (54°C). Allowing your steaks to rest for at least 5 minutes afterward will ensure they stay juicy as they continue to cook slightly from residual heat.
Choosing high-quality filet mignon is also essential for the best flavor. Look for steaks with nice marbling; the intramuscular fat enhances the tenderness and richness. If you can't find filet mignon, a ribeye or sirloin can be a good substitute, although the flavor and texture will differ. Adjust your cooking time accordingly, as these cuts might require different handling due to their varying thickness and fat contents.
Crafting the Thai Peanut Sauce
The Thai peanut sauce is central to this dish, providing its signature flavor profile. To achieve the perfect consistency, whisk together the peanut butter and warm water until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more warm water if the sauce feels too thick—it should have a pourable texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the sriracha slowly; taste as you go, so you can control the heat level to your liking.
Storing leftovers? This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container. If you find that it thickens in the fridge, simply stir in a little warm water before serving, restoring its creamy texture. You can also use this versatile sauce as a dressing for salads or a dip for fresh spring rolls—its delicious flavor extends well beyond just pairing with steak.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
When it’s time to serve, consider pairing your filet mignon with complementary sides to create a balanced meal. Think about adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to enhance color and nutrition. Mashed potatoes seasoned with butter and garlic or a simple rice dish also work well to soak up the nutty sauce. For a twist, try serving it over a bed of quinoa or a fresh salad with crisp greens and a citrus vinaigrette to brighten the flavors.
Feel free to get creative with this dish! You can marinate the steaks in soy sauce and garlic for a few hours before cooking for an added depth of flavor, or try adding a splash of coconut milk to the peanut sauce for a richer profile. If you're entertaining, consider skewering bite-sized pieces of the filet mignon and drizzling the sauce over them as a delicious appetizer to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create a sensational dish:
For the Filet Mignon
- 2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Thai Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a perfect filet mignon with Thai peanut sauce:
Prepare the Thai Peanut Sauce
In a bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, sriracha, and warm water. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
Cook the Filet Mignon
Season the filet mignon steaks with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare (adjust time based on desired doneness).
Let it Rest
Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices.
Serve with Sauce
Place the rested steaks on plates, drizzle with the Thai peanut sauce, and garnish with chopped peanuts and cilantro.
Enjoy this delightful dish that combines elegant flavors!
Pro Tips
- For an added kick, try marinating the filet mignon in a splash of soy sauce and lime juice for a few hours before cooking.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you're planning a dinner party, you can make the Thai peanut sauce ahead of time. Just prepare the sauce, store it in the fridge, and reheat it gently on low heat before serving. You can also season and sear the filet mignon a few hours in advance. After searing, allow the meat to cool down to room temperature before refrigerating it, ensuring it's well covered to prevent drying out.
For an even easier dinner, consider preparing the sauce the day before. This will give the flavors a chance to meld together, making it even more flavorful when you serve it. Just remember to give it a good whisk before serving, and adjust with a bit of warm water if necessary to maintain its consistency.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your peanut sauce is gritty, this is usually due to the type of peanut butter used. Opt for natural, creamy peanut butter for the best results, as it blends more smoothly. Additionally, if it’s too salty, this can happen from high-sodium soy sauce; consider using a low-sodium variant next time or adjust the soy sauce quantity based on your preference.
Overcooked filet mignon can lead to dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to avoid this common pitfall, and remember to remove it from the pan just before it reaches your target temperature, as the meat will continue to cook while resting. Always trust your instincts—if it looks ready, take it off the heat!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! Cuts like sirloin or ribeye can also work well, but adjust cooking times as they may differ.
→ Is there a vegetarian alternative for the sauce?
Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter and use tofu instead of steak for a delicious vegetarian option.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain tenderness.
→ What side dishes pair well with this dish?
Steamed jasmine rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh green salad would complement this meal perfectly.
Filet Mignon with Thai Peanut Sauce
I absolutely adore filet mignon, and when I discovered the beautiful fusion of flavors in Thai peanut sauce, I knew I had to try it. The tender, juicy steak paired with the sweet and spicy sauce creates an unforgettable dining experience. Every time I make this dish, I'm reminded of how perfectly the rich umami of the beef complements the creamy, nutty notes of the sauce. It’s not just another steak recipe; it’s an adventure for the taste buds that I can't resist sharing.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: World Taste Recipe Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: Serves 2
What You'll Need
For the Filet Mignon
- 2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Thai Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, sriracha, and warm water. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
Season the filet mignon steaks with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare (adjust time based on desired doneness).
Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices.
Place the rested steaks on plates, drizzle with the Thai peanut sauce, and garnish with chopped peanuts and cilantro.
Extra Tips
- For an added kick, try marinating the filet mignon in a splash of soy sauce and lime juice for a few hours before cooking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Total Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 40g