Beef filet tenderloin, often referred to simply as filet or tenderloin, is a prized and highly sought-after cut of beef known for its exceptional tenderness and delicate flavor. It is sourced from the tenderloin muscle, which is located in the loin area of the animal and is not heavily exercised, resulting in its buttery texture.
Filet tenderloin is lean and boasts a fine-grained texture. It is typically cylindrical in shape, tapering towards one end, and is usually sold as a whole piece or as individual steaks, often referred to as filet mignon. This cut is prized for its tenderness as it contains little connective tissue or fat marbling, making it exceptionally tender and requiring minimal effort to chew.