What Is Chateaubriand?

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Diners and chefs alike consider Chateaubriand the epitome of haute cuisine. The chef who created this legendary dish christened it after a public figure -- French writer and statesman François Auguste René Chateaubriand. Since its creation, Chateaubriand, a sumptuous meal typically cooked for two, has become one of the most expensive and sought-after dishes worldwide.

History

François Auguste René, the vicomte de Chateaubriand, led the Romanticism movement in writing during the 18th and 19th centuries. He held many diplomatic positions, eventually becoming ambassador to England for Louis XVIII. Legend has it that his chef created the famous dish in his honor -- roasting the expensive cut of meat until the ends were well cooked but leaving the center portion rare.

Cut of Meat

Chateaubriand steaks come from the center portion of beef tenderloin. The cut ranges from one-and-a-half to five or six inches in thickness and typically weighs 12 to 16 ounces. It should be large enough to serve two or three people. Due to its high cost, many butchers only cut a Chateaubriand by special order. When ordering, ask your butcher to cut a thick one-pound steak from the center of the tenderloin.

Preparation

The thickness of the cut requires that care be taken to prevent charring the outside while leaving the center raw. Also, grilling too closely to flame dries out the meat. The best recipes call for olive-oil rub sprinkled with Kosher salt and coarsely ground pepper. Sear the meat on a grill or in a stove-top pan, then transfer to a baking pan. Roast it in the oven at 445 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 12 to 15 minutes until rare or medium -- and internal temperature of 130 to 140 degrees.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the Chateaubriand on the diagonal and place them on warmed plates. Deglaze the roasting pan with butter, red wine and shallots. Pour the demi-glace wine sauce over the Chateaubriand and adorn it with fresh tarragon. Chateaubriand may also be served with a béarnaise sauce. Traditional side dishes include steamed or sautéed vegetables and chateau potatoes, which are parboiled small potatoes roasted in butter.