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National Filet Mignon Day

Food · August 13

A day for filet mignon, the small, thick, tender steak cut from the beef tenderloin, and the simple ways people cook and serve it at home.

National Filet Mignon Day falls on Friday, August 13, 2027. That is 290 days away.

Filet mignon is a small, thick steak cut from the tenderloin, a long muscle that runs along the inside of the cow's back. That muscle does very little work, which is why the meat is so tender you can almost cut it with a fork. The name is French, and it roughly means "dainty fillet."

What it offers in softness it gives up a little in flavor. The cut is lean, without the fat marbling of a ribeye, so cooks often lean on butter, a pan sauce, or a strip of bacon wrapped around the edge. A peppercorn crust is a classic. So is a spoonful of compound butter melting on top as the steak rests.

Most people cook it hot and fast. A heavy skillet gets a good sear on both flat sides, and then the steak may finish in the oven. Because it is lean, it can turn dry if it goes too far, which is why many cooks stop at rare or medium rare and use a thermometer rather than guessing.

It shows up on restaurant menus as the special-occasion steak, but it works fine at a kitchen table too. Mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus and a simple green salad all suit it. Since each piece is small and round, it also looks tidy on the plate, which may explain part of its reputation.

Leftover filet, if there ever is any, slices thinly for a very good sandwich the next day.

Ways to celebrate

• Sear a filet mignon in a hot cast iron skillet at home.
• Try a peppercorn crust or a dab of garlic herb butter.
• Make a quick pan sauce from the drippings and a splash of broth.
• Use a meat thermometer to find your preferred doneness.
• Slice any leftovers thin for a steak sandwich.

Dates

All national days on August 13

Also on August 13

• National Prosecco Day
• International Left-Handers Day

Categories: Food days