Cooking Filet Mignon to Perfection: A Charcoal Grill Guide

Filet mignon, a tender and lean cut of beef, is a culinary delight that can be cooked to perfection on a charcoal grill. However, achieving the perfect doneness can be a challenge, especially for those new to grilling. In this article, we will explore the factors that affect the cooking time of filet mignon on a charcoal grill and provide a comprehensive guide on how to cook it to your desired level of doneness.

Table of Contents

Understanding Filet Mignon

Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of filet mignon. This cut of beef comes from the small end of the tenderloin and is known for its buttery texture and mild flavor. Filet mignon is a lean cut, which means it has less marbling (fat) than other cuts of beef. This leanness makes it more prone to drying out if overcooked, emphasizing the importance of precise cooking times.

Factors Affecting Cooking Time

Several factors can affect the cooking time of filet mignon on a charcoal grill, including:

Thickness of the steak: Thicker steaks take longer to cook than thinner ones.
Heat of the grill: Higher heat can cook the steak faster, but it also increases the risk of burning the outside before the inside is cooked to your liking.
Desired level of doneness: Cooking the steak to a higher level of doneness (e.g., well-done) takes longer than cooking it to a lower level of doneness (e.g., rare).
Grill temperature: The temperature of the grill can vary depending on the type of charcoal, airflow, and other factors.

Preparing the Grill and Steak

Before cooking the filet mignon, it’s essential to prepare the grill and steak properly.

Grill Preparation

To prepare the grill, follow these steps:

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F to 450°F).
Clean the grates with a wire brush to remove any debris or residue.
Oil the grates with a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent the steak from sticking.

Steak Preparation

To prepare the steak, follow these steps:

Bring the steak to room temperature by leaving it out for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Season the steak with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Cooking the Filet Mignon

Now that the grill and steak are prepared, it’s time to cook the filet mignon.

Cooking Times and Temperatures

The cooking time and temperature of filet mignon will depend on the desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines:

Note: These cooking times are approximate and may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the heat of the grill.

Cooking Techniques

To cook the filet mignon, follow these steps:

Place the steak on the grill and close the lid.
Cook for the recommended time per side, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak.
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to enhance your filet mignon grilling experience:

Use a cast-iron or stainless steel pan: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the filet mignon in a pan on the stovetop or in the oven.
Add aromatics: Add aromatics like garlic, thyme, or rosemary to the grill while cooking the steak for added flavor.
Try different seasonings: Experiment with different seasonings like paprika, cumin, or coriander to add unique flavors to the steak.
Use a grill mat: A grill mat can help prevent the steak from sticking to the grates and make cleanup easier.

Conclusion

Cooking filet mignon on a charcoal grill can be a rewarding experience, but it requires attention to detail and a understanding of the factors that affect cooking time. By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this article, you can achieve a perfectly cooked filet mignon that will impress your family and friends. Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to a safe internal temperature, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and techniques to enhance the flavor and texture of the steak.

What is the ideal thickness for filet mignon when grilling?

The ideal thickness for filet mignon when grilling is between 1-1.5 inches. This thickness allows for even cooking and helps prevent the outside from burning before the inside reaches the desired level of doneness. It’s essential to note that filets that are too thin may cook too quickly, leading to overcooking.

When selecting filets, look for those that are evenly cut and have a consistent thickness throughout. If your filets are too thick, you can consider cutting them in half or pounding them to achieve the desired thickness. Keep in mind that the thickness of the filet will also impact the cooking time, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I prepare filet mignon for grilling on a charcoal grill?

To prepare filet mignon for grilling on a charcoal grill, start by bringing the filets to room temperature. This helps the filets cook more evenly and prevents them from cooking too quickly on the outside. Next, season the filets with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Be sure to coat the filets evenly, making sure to season all sides.

Once the filets are seasoned, brush them with a small amount of oil to help prevent sticking to the grill grates. You can also add any additional flavorings, such as herbs or spices, to the oil for extra flavor. Finally, make sure the grill grates are clean and brush them with oil to prevent sticking.

What is the best way to heat a charcoal grill for grilling filet mignon?

The best way to heat a charcoal grill for grilling filet mignon is to use a two-zone heating method. This involves heating one side of the grill to high heat and leaving the other side at a lower heat. This allows you to sear the filets on the high-heat side and then finish cooking them on the lower-heat side.

To achieve this, light the charcoal and let it ash over until it’s covered in a thin layer of gray ash. Then, use a charcoal rake or tongs to move the coals to one side of the grill, creating a high-heat zone. Leave the other side of the grill without coals, creating a lower-heat zone. This will give you a temperature range of around 400-500°F on the high-heat side and 200-300°F on the lower-heat side.

How long does it take to grill filet mignon to medium-rare?

The cooking time for grilling filet mignon to medium-rare will depend on the thickness of the filets and the heat of the grill. As a general rule, a 1-inch thick filet will take around 4-5 minutes per side to cook to medium-rare. This assumes a high heat of around 400-500°F.

It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the filets are cooked to a safe internal temperature of at least 130°F for medium-rare. You can also use the finger test, where you press the filet gently with your finger. A medium-rare filet will feel soft and springy to the touch.

How do I prevent filet mignon from sticking to the grill grates?

To prevent filet mignon from sticking to the grill grates, make sure the grates are clean and brush them with oil before grilling. You can also brush the filets with oil before grilling to help prevent sticking. Additionally, make sure the grill is at the right temperature, as a grill that’s too cold can cause the filets to stick.

Another trick is to rotate the filets 90 degrees after searing them for a few minutes. This helps create a nice crust on the filets and prevents them from sticking to the grates. Finally, don’t press down on the filets with your spatula, as this can cause them to stick to the grates.

Can I grill filet mignon to well-done?

While it’s technically possible to grill filet mignon to well-done, it’s not recommended. Filet mignon is a tender cut of meat that’s best cooked to medium-rare or medium. Cooking it to well-done can make it tough and dry.

If you prefer your filet mignon well-done, it’s better to cook it using a different method, such as pan-frying or oven roasting. These methods allow for more even cooking and can help prevent the filets from becoming tough and dry.

How do I let filet mignon rest after grilling?

After grilling filet mignon, it’s essential to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the filets to retain their tenderness. To let the filets rest, remove them from the grill and place them on a plate or cutting board.

Cover the filets with foil or a plate to keep them warm, and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. During this time, the juices will redistribute, and the filets will retain their tenderness. After the filets have rested, slice them thinly against the grain and serve immediately.