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- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Brandy or Cognac: 2 tablespoons (optional, but it adds a luxurious depth of flavor).
- White Wine: 1/4 cup (to deglaze the pan and add acidity to balance the richness).
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the sauce.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons for finishing the sauce and making it silky.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
How to Make Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream
This recipe may sound like something you’d order at a high-end restaurant, but with a few key steps, you can easily prepare it at home and impress your guests or loved ones. Here’s how to make Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream.
Step 1: Prepare the Filet Mignon
- Season the Steaks: Start by patting your filet mignon steaks dry with paper towels. This helps the steak sear properly. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Preheat the Pan: Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add about 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Let it heat up until it shimmers.
- Sear the Filets: Add the steaks to the hot pan and sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the time to your preferred doneness (use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure). After searing, add 2 tablespoons of butter and a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to the pan, basting the steaks with the melted butter for extra flavor.
- Rest the Steaks: Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the pan and let them rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the steaks tender.
Step 2: Make the Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan (without wiping it clean), add 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped shallots and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift any flavorful bits from the bottom. Let the wine cook off for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the lobster stock and let it simmer for 2 minutes, reducing slightly. Then, add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-5 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Add the lobster meat and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until heated through. Taste the sauce and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the brandy or cognac (if using) and cook for 1 minute. Add another tablespoon of butter to make the sauce extra silky and rich.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Place each filet mignon on a plate and spoon the shrimp and lobster cream sauce over the top, ensuring that both the shrimp and lobster meat are nestled in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) for a pop of color, and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Tips for the Perfect Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream
- Use High-Quality Meat and Seafood: The quality of the filet mignon and seafood is key to this dish. Opt for well-marbled steaks and fresh, sustainably sourced shrimp and lobster.
- Don’t Overcook the Filet: Filet mignon is best served medium-rare to medium. Overcooking will cause it to lose its tenderness and juiciness.
- Customize the Sauce: While the lobster and shrimp make a luxurious base, feel free to add extra ingredients like fresh herbs or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat in your cream sauce.
- Make it Ahead: While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and lobster cream sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Simply reheat the sauce and add the shrimp and lobster right before serving.
- Pair with Wine: To complement the richness of the filet and the seafood, pair this dish with a full-bodied white wine, such as a Chardonnay or a light red wine, like a Pinot Noir.
Conclusion
Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream is the ultimate indulgence—combining the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of filet mignon with the luxurious richness of a creamy lobster sauce, all accented by succulent shrimp. Whether you’re treating yourself to a special meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish is sure to wow with its elegant presentation and unforgettable flavor.
With just a few simple steps and a bit of attention to detail, you can create a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your own home. Serve it with a glass of wine and your favorite sides, and you have the perfect meal for any occasion.
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