- Herb butter, which can be made in advance, is a versatile seasoning that can be used for meat, seafood, and boiled vegetables.
- Finish refreshingly with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and chopped herbs, mainly cilantro, in 150g of grass-fed (unsalted) butter.
- Return the fillet steak to room temperature 30 minutes before grilling, and after grilling, let it rest for a few minutes before adding herb butter for a juicy result.
- It's convenient to cut and use only the amount you need. It can be stored frozen for about 1 month.
Herb Butter and Fillet Steak — A Classic Recipe Enjoyed with Refreshing Lemon Scent
Having herb butter in the fridge instantly brightens up your dining table. We've tried it ourselves, and the lemon-infused herb butter made even fatty fillet steak feel light and delicious from start to finish. This time, we'll carefully introduce the basic preparation, storage tips, grilling techniques, and even arrangement ideas. Honestly, it's a recipe that's hard to fail, even for first-timers.
Ingredients and Preparation (for 2-3 servings)
- Grass-fed butter (unsalted) 150g (unsalted butter can be substituted)
- Lemon juice 1 tbsp (add a small amount of grated lemon zest for more aroma, if desired)
- Cilantro (coriander) about 1 bunch; parsley, thyme as desired
- Salt a pinch
- Beef fillet 300g, salt and pepper a pinch
Return the butter to room temperature to soften. Wipe the herbs thoroughly before mincing. Cilantro is a polarizing herb, so if you don't like it, you can substitute Italian parsley for an easier-to-eat option.
How to Make Herb Butter (Detailed Steps and Tips)
Steps
- Place the softened butter in a bowl and knead with a rubber spatula until smooth.
- Add the minced cilantro, parsley, and thyme and knead further. Adjust the amount of herbs while tasting.
- Gradually add lemon juice and season with salt. Be careful not to add too much to preserve the flavor.
- Place on plastic wrap, form into a cylinder, close the ends, and shape. Chill in the freezer for about 1 hour to make it easier to handle.
Tips and Advice
Lemon juice is for flavoring, so add it little by little to adjust to your preferred tartness. Butter can separate if left at room temperature for too long, so it's important to work while monitoring its consistency. We found it convenient to divide it into portions after making it, wrap it in plastic, and cut off only the amount needed.
How to Grill Fillet Steak and Pairings
Basic Grilling Method
- Take the fillet out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling and let it return to room temperature (this ensures even cooking).
- Pat dry the surface and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat, add a thin layer of oil, place the meat, and cook to your desired doneness. A guideline is 2-3 minutes per side (depending on thickness).
- Once grilled, let it rest for 3-5 minutes wrapped in aluminum foil, and once the heat has settled, place the herb butter on top to melt.
Doneness Guidelines
The target internal temperature is 50-52°C for rare and 57-60°C for medium. Be careful not to overcook, as it will become tough; pay attention to the heat and resting time.
Pairing Ideas
Simple side dishes like roasted vegetables, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes pair well. Our recommendation is boiled asparagus with a squeeze of lemon. A light red wine was a good match for a refreshing pairing.
Storage, Arrangement, and Nutritional Points
- Use within approximately 1 month when frozen. When using, cut off only the necessary amount and let it return to room temperature slightly for easier handling.
- The combination of herbs is flexible. Adding rosemary or chives will change the flavor. Dill or lemon zest pairs well with seafood.
- Butter is high in calories, so using it in moderation helps maintain overall dietary balance. Nutritionally, it provides small amounts of vitamins and minerals but offers high satisfaction.
Summary
Lemon-flavored herb butter is a convenient stock seasoning that allows you to enjoy fillet steak refreshingly. The preparation is simple, and it's easy to store, which is why we've made it many times to expand our culinary repertoire. By mastering the basic grilling techniques and storage tips, you can easily enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs!
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice or treatment. If you have specific health conditions or allergies, please consult a qualified doctor or registered dietitian.