FILET MIGNON WITH BEARNAISE SAUCE

Recipe courtesy Tyler Florence

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Take the beef tenderloin and drizzle with olive oil.  Season well all over with plenty of kosher salt and freshly ground  black pepper all over.  Make sure it is at room temperature before cooking.  Place a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat on the stove top and sear tenderloin all over.   Place the whole pan in the oven and roast the tenderloin for 15-17 minutes (depending on how thick your tenderloin is).  An internal thermometer when inserted into the thickest part of the meat should read 130 degrees F for medium-rare.  If you want it medium, cook for a further 3 minutes in the oven.  Remove from the oven and tent with foil while you let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting.

BLENDER BEARNAISE SAUCE

Make the béarnaise reduction first. In a small saucepan, combine half of the tarragon, shallots, vinegar and wine over medium-high heat.  Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Blend yolks and béarnaise reduction together.  With the blender running, add one third of the butter in a slow steady stream. Once it emulsifies, turn the blender speed up to high and add the remaining butter.  Add the remaining half bunch of fresh tarragon, season with salt and pepper and give it one more buzz.  Set aside in a warm spot to hold the sauce.

Edited: October 14th, 2009