Savory Merlot-Infused Grilled Beef Filets
Elevate your grilling game with these Savory Merlot-Infused Grilled Beef Filets. This recipe marries the richness of beef with the deep flavors of merlot wine, complemented by the umami of Worcestershire sauce and the aromatic essence of garlic. The marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also imparts a delightful sweetness from brown sugar and a hint of heat from freshly ground black pepper. Perfect for a weekend meal or a special occasion, these filets are best served alongside fluffy rice and seasonal grilled vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Filet of beef
4 (Trimmed of excess fat)
Merlot wine
1/2 cup (N/A)
Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon (N/A)
Garlic cloves
4 (Minced)
Brown sugar
1 tablespoon (N/A)
Freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon (N/A)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the merlot, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
2
Add the trimmed beef filets to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 10 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
3
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4
Remove the beef filets from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
5
Place the marinated beef filets on the preheated grill. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if desired.
6
While the filets are grilling, pour the reserved marinade mixture into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to enhance flavors.
7
Once the filets are cooked to your liking, remove them from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
8
Pour the simmered sauce over the cooked filets before serving. Enjoy with your choice of rice and grilled vegetables.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Merlot-Infused Grilled Beef Filets?
These are high-quality beef filets marinated in a mixture of Merlot wine, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and brown sugar, then grilled to perfection and served with a reduced wine sauce.
What cut of beef is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for filet of beef, also known as filet mignon, which is known for its extreme tenderness and lean profile.
How long should I marinate the beef?
You should marinate the beef for a minimum of 10 minutes, but for the best flavor infusion, you can leave it for up to 2 hours.
Can I marinate the steaks overnight?
While you can, the recipe suggests a maximum of 2 hours because the acidity in the wine may start to break down the muscle fibers of the tender filet too much if left too long.
What type of Merlot should I use?
Any dry Merlot wine you enjoy drinking will work perfectly for this recipe as the flavors will concentrate during the reduction process.
Is there a substitute for Merlot wine?
Yes, you can substitute Merlot with another medium-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir.
How do I prepare the garlic for the marinade?
The garlic should be finely minced to ensure the aromatic oils are released into the marinade and the sauce.
What is the purpose of brown sugar in this recipe?
Brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity of the wine and helps create a beautiful caramelized crust on the beef during grilling.
What grill temperature is recommended?
A medium-high heat is ideal for grilling beef filets to get a good sear while maintaining a juicy interior.
How long do I cook the filets for medium-rare?
Cook the filets for approximately 4-5 minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare finish.
Why do I need to boil the marinade?
Boiling the reserved marinade for 10 minutes is essential for food safety and to reduce the liquid into a flavorful, thick sauce.
Is it safe to use marinade that touched raw meat?
Yes, provided you bring it to a full rolling boil for at least 10 minutes as the instructions state to kill any bacteria.
Should I let the beef rest after grilling?
Yes, let the filets rest for a few minutes after removing them from the grill to allow the juices to redistribute through the meat.
What side dishes pair well with these filets?
This dish pairs exceptionally well with fluffy white or brown rice and a side of seasonal grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.
Can I make this recipe on a stovetop?
Yes, you can sear the filets in a heavy cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat if a grill is not available.
What does Worcestershire sauce add to the dish?
It provides a deep umami flavor and saltiness that complements the richness of the beef and wine.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people, with one filet per person.
Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure the beef is completely thawed in the refrigerator before beginning the marinating process.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Check your Worcestershire sauce label; most are gluten-free, but some brands contain barley malt vinegar.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute for brown sugar if needed.
How do I know if my steak is medium-rare without a timer?
A meat thermometer should read 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit (54-57 degrees Celsius) for medium-rare.
Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh?
Fresh garlic is preferred for its aromatic quality, but you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
Should I trim the fat from the filets?
Yes, the recipe recommends trimming excess fat to ensure a clean presentation and even cooking.
Is the Merlot sauce very alcoholic?
No, most of the alcohol evaporates during the 10-minute boiling and simmering process, leaving behind only the flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover filets and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best way to reheat the beef?
To prevent overcooking, reheat the beef slowly in a pan over low heat with a bit of the leftover sauce.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Yes, this Merlot marinade also works well with lamb chops or thick-cut pork chops.
Do I need to grease the grill?
It is recommended to lightly oil the grill grates before preheating to prevent the tender beef filets from sticking.
What kind of pepper should I use?
Freshly ground black pepper is best as it provides a sharper, more vibrant heat than pre-ground pepper.
Is this recipe suitable for a special occasion?
Absolutely! The use of Merlot and filet mignon makes this an elegant and impressive dish for holidays or anniversaries.