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The centre cut fillet is the most tender part of the beef, prized for its buttery texture and subtle flavour. This premium cut deserves a simple, precise cooking method to showcase its natural qualities. Whether seared and roasted for an elegant dinner or grilled for a special occasion, the centre cut fillet delivers an unforgettable eating experience.

INGREDIENTS
  • 1kg beef centre cut fillet, trimmed
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil (rapeseed or sunflower)
  • 50g unsalted butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
METHOD

  1. Remove the fillet from the fridge 1 hour before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
  2. Preheat the oven to 200°C fan (220°C conventional) / Gas 7.
  3. Pat the fillet dry with kitchen paper and season generously with salt and pepper.
  4. Heat a large ovenproof frying pan over high heat. Add the oil.
  5. Sear the fillet for 2–3 minutes on each side until well browned.
  6. Add the butter, garlic, and thyme/rosemary to the pan. Baste the fillet with the melted butter for 1–2 minutes.
  7. Transfer the pan to the oven and roast for:
    • Rare: 18–20 minutes (internal temp 50–52°C)
    • Medium-rare: 22–24 minutes (internal temp 55–57°C)
    • Medium: 26–28 minutes (internal temp 60–63°C)
  8. Rest the fillet, loosely covered with foil, for 15 minutes before slicing.

Adjustment for 500g fillet: Reduce oven cooking time by approximately one-third:

  • Rare: 12–14 minutes
  • Medium-rare: 15–17 minutes
  • Medium: 18–20 minutes

Multi-Cooker Option

Ninja Foodi / Multi-Cooker: Use the Sear/Sauté function to brown the fillet as above. Switch to Bake/Roast mode at 200°C and cook until desired internal temperature is reached (see timings above). Always rest before slicing.


What sides and matches work well with this?

Sides:

  • Dauphinoise potatoes – Thinly sliced potatoes baked in cream and garlic.
  • Charred asparagus – Lightly seasoned with sea salt and lemon.
  • Buttered baby carrots – Finished with fresh parsley.
  • Wild mushroom fricassée – Earthy and rich.
  • Yorkshire puddings – Perfect for soaking up juices.
  • Watercress salad – With a mustard vinaigrette for freshness.

Matches:

  • Flavours: black pepper, horseradish, red wine jus, truffle, garlic.
  • Ingredients: mushrooms, shallots, root vegetables, herbs.
  • Sauces: béarnaise, peppercorn, bordelaise.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25–40 minutes plus resting time (depending on size and doneness)

Hot Tips

  • Tie the fillet with butcher’s string to maintain an even shape.
  • Use a digital thermometer for perfect doneness.
  • Resting is essential – it redistributes juices for a tender result.
  • For extra flavour, marinate in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 24 hours before cooking.

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