Grilled Fillet in Red Wine Flavored Sauce

The grilled fillet in red wine flavored sauce is a refined dish that combines the simplicity of grilling with the richness of a deep and tasty wine sauce. Here’s how to prepare it:

Ingredients

  • 4 beef fillets (about 200-250 g each)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 sprig of rosemary
  • 1 clove of garlic
  • 250 ml of good quality red wine
  • 1 tablespoon of cold butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon of tomato paste (optional)
  • Beef broth to taste (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in cold water (optional)

Preparation

  1. Prepare the fillets: first of all, take the beef fillets out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. This will ensure a more even cooking.

  2. Salt and pepper the meat: sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the fillets. You can also add a little extra virgin olive oil and lightly massage the meat.

  3. Cook the fillets: heat a griddle or pan over medium-high heat and, when it is hot, lay the fillets on it. Add the sprig of rosemary and the crushed garlic clove to flavor the oil. Cook the fillets for about 3-4 minutes per side (depending on thickness and cooking preferences). When ready, remove the fillets from the griddle and let them rest on a cutting board covered with a sheet of aluminum foil.

  4. Prepare the red wine sauce: in the same pan where you cooked the fillets (to not lose the released juices), add the chopped onion and let it fry until it becomes transparent. Deglaze with the red wine and add the bay leaves and the tomato paste to enrich the flavor, if using. Let the sauce reduce over low heat until it has reduced by half.

  5. Finish the sauce: if you want a thicker sauce, you can add the teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in cold water. Let the sauce simmer until it reaches the desired consistency. Remove from heat and add a tablespoon of cold butter, blending it into the sauce to achieve a glossy and velvety consistency. Season with salt and pepper.

  6. Serve: slice the fillets and arrange them on plates, then drizzle with the flavored red wine sauce.

Curiosity

The grilled fillet is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy this noble part of the beef. The red wine sauce not only adds depth to the dish but if prepared with a good-quality wine, can also elevate the gastronomic experience. Remember to choose a wine that would be pleasant to drink; the general rule is: if you wouldn’t drink it, don’t cook with it. Enjoy your meal!

Grilled Fillet in Red Wine Flavored Sauce