Filet Américain

Name: Filet Américain
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Belgian
Ingredients: 400g fresh beef tenderloin or sirloin, very finely minced; 2 tbsp capers, chopped; 2 tbsp finely diced shallots; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 egg yolk; 1 tbsp mayonnaise; Dash of Tabasco; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; Toast or crusty bread for serving; Pickles and cocktail onions

Filet Américain / Préparé (fee-LAY ah-may-ree-KAN)

Belgian Steak Tartare Spread

⏱ Prep Time 15 min

📈 Difficulty Easy

👥 Servings

🔥 Calories 284 kcal

A finely minced raw beef preparation seasoned with capers, onions, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard, spread on toast or served as a main — Belgium's unique take on steak tartare.

Nutrition & Info

Protein 22.0g

Carbs 4.0g

Fat 20.0g

Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

dairy-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ eggs

Equipment Needed

meat grinder or sharp knife mixing bowl

Presentation Guide

Vessel: plate or on toast

Garnishes: pickles, cocktail onions, capers

Accompaniments: toast, frites, salad

Ingredients

400g fresh beef tenderloin or sirloin, very finely minced
2 tbsp capers, chopped
2 tbsp finely diced shallots
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 egg yolk
1 tbsp mayonnaise
Dash of Tabasco
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Toast or crusty bread for serving
Pickles and cocktail onions

Instructions

1
Ensure beef is extremely fresh and high quality. Mince very finely with a sharp knife or grinder.
2
Mix the minced beef with capers, shallots, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, egg yolk, and mayonnaise.
3
Season with Tabasco, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
4
Shape into a mound or serve as a spread on toast.
5
Accompany with pickles, cocktail onions, and additional toast. Serve immediately.

💡

Did You Know?

Despite its name, Filet Américain has nothing to do with America — the "Américain" likely refers to the American-style mustard originally used in the seasoning.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

meat grinder or sharp knife
mixing bowl

Garnishing

pickles, cocktail onions, capers

Accompaniments

toast, frites, salad

The Story Behind Filet Américain

Filet Américain became a Belgian staple in the early 20th century, evolving from French steak tartare into a uniquely Belgian preparation that is more finely ground and seasoned differently. It is sold pre-made in every Belgian butcher shop and supermarket, enjoyed daily on sandwiches across the country.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed lunch or starter 📜 Origins: Early 20th century Belgium

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