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When the holiday season approaches, the quest for a standout main dish begins. This year, I found myself yearning for something beyond the typical turkey fare. That’s when I stumbled upon my new favorite centerpiece: an ale-glazed beef fillet with a crispy onion crust. The first time I prepared this showstopper, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of rich malt and sautéed onions, instantly shifting my dinner plans to a festive celebration.

Imagine tender beef, lovingly glazed to perfection, topped with a savory crunch that adds delightful texture to every bite. The beauty of this dish is not just in its luxurious flavor but also in its simplicity—ideal for those rushed holiday moments when you want to impress without the stress. Paired with vibrant Chantenay carrots and silky baby spinach, this beef fillet will steal the show at your Christmas table, leaving your guests raving about your culinary prowess long after the last bite is gone. Ready to elevate your holiday feast? Let’s dive into this fabulous recipe!

Why is ale-glazed beef fillet irresistible?

Decadent, Rich Flavors: The unique ale glaze infuses the beef with warm, malty notes that perfectly complement the savory onion crust.

Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress friends and family this holiday season.

Perfect Holiday Centerpiece: Ditch the turkey and opt for this stunning dish that invites festive conversations and admiration at the table.

Versatile Pairings: This beef fillet harmonizes beautifully with seasonal sides like roasted potatoes or winter salads, making every bite a winter delight.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a fancy dinner party, this dish is sure to be the highlight of the meal!

Ale-Glazed Beef Fillet Ingredients

For the Beef
• Beef Fillet (800g) – The star of the dish, offering tenderness and flavor; choose high-quality meat for best results.
• Sunflower Oil – Ideal for searing the beef with a high smoke point; can be substituted with vegetable oil.
• Pale Ale (500ml) – Forms the glaze’s base, imparting a rich, malty flavor; light beer can be used as an alternative.
• Malt Extract (180g) – Adds sweetness and depth to the glaze; honey can work as a suitable substitute.
• Yeast Extract (50g) – Enhances flavor with umami notes; use this optional ingredient if available.
• Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) – Contributes saltiness and rich flavor to the glaze.
• Sherry Vinegar (1 tbsp) – Provides necessary acidity to balance sweetness in the glaze.

For the Crispy Onion Crust
• Crispy Fried Onions – These add a delightful crunch; you can find them in supermarkets or online.

For the Sides
• Chantenay Carrots (400g) – Sweet and tender, they complement the beef; regular carrots are a great substitute if needed.
• Unsalted Butter (50g) – Adds richness to the carrots; use salted butter if that’s what you have, but reduce extra salt.
• Fennel Seeds (2 tbsp) – Introduce a unique flavor to the carrots; feel free to replace with anise or omit entirely.
• Baby Spinach (200g) – Adds freshness as a side; any leafy green can be swapped in for versatility.

Experience the magic of this ale-glazed beef fillet with a crispy onion crust— an elegant centerpiece sure to elevate your Christmas festivities!

How to Make Ale-Glazed Beef Fillet

Prepare Glaze: In a saucepan, whisk together the pale ale, malt extract, yeast extract, soy sauce, and sherry vinegar. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes until it thickens to a sticky consistency.
Crush Onions: Place crispy fried onions in a food processor and blitz until they reach a fine consistency. This will create the luscious topping for your beef fillet.
Sear Beef: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Generously season the beef fillet. In a frying pan, heat sunflower oil and sear the beef on all sides for about 10 minutes until nicely browned.
Roast Beef: Transfer the seared beef to a roasting rack. Brush it generously with the prepared glaze and roast in the oven for 10 minutes. Flip the beef, glaze again, and repeat. Aim for a core temperature of 52°C for rare or 55-60°C for medium-rare. Once done, let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
Cook Carrots: Boil the Chantenay carrots in salted water for 5-7 minutes until they are tender. Drain and return them to the frying pan used for the beef. Mix in butter and fennel seeds, frying until golden, then add baby spinach and the remaining glaze until the spinach wilts.
Serve: Roll the rested glazed beef in the crushed crispy onions, carve it into slices, and serve alongside the sautéed carrots and spinach for a beautiful presentation.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for added vibrancy and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Ale-Glazed Beef Fillet with Crispy Onion Crust?

Creating the perfect festive table is all about pairing flavors and textures that complement each other beautifully. Let’s explore some delicious accompaniments that will elevate your meal to new heights!

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth, buttery texture balances the savory crunch of the beef, adding a comforting element to the meal.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These nutty, caramelized sprouts add a delightful crunch and a hint of bitterness that contrasts elegantly with the sweet glaze.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: While you already have Chantenay carrots, adding a honey glaze brings an additional layer of sweetness to harmonize with the ale flavors.
Winter Salad: A mix of greens, such as arugula and kale, with slices of pear and walnuts, adds freshness and a peppery bite that cuts through the richness of the beef.
Savory Yorkshire Puddings: These pillowy delights are a traditional pairing with beef and can soak up the ale glaze, making every bite a flavor exploration.
Mulled Wine: A warm glass of spiced mulled wine will uplift the meal, blending perfectly with the festive spirit of your overarching flavor palette.

Bring joy and satisfaction to your Christmas table with these festive pairings that transform your ale-glazed beef fillet into a truly memorable feast!

Tips for the Best Ale-Glazed Beef Fillet

Choose Quality Beef: Select a fresh, high-quality beef fillet for the best tenderness and flavor. This can make or break your ale-glazed beef fillet experience.
Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the beef reaches the perfect doneness. This avoids the common mistake of overcooking.
Rest for Juiciness: Always allow the beef to rest after roasting. This step retains moisture, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
Adjust Glaze Consistency: If your glaze feels too thick, add a splash of ale to adjust the consistency, making it easier to brush on the beef.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. This saves time and enhances flavors as it sits!
Experiment with Sides: While Chantenay carrots and spinach are great, don’t hesitate to try seasonal vegetables that complement the beef, enhancing your holiday feast.

Make Ahead Options

These ale-glazed beef fillets are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a festive feast without the last-minute panic! You can prepare the glaze and the crispy onion crust up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them separately to maintain their quality. Additionally, sear the beef fillet ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, roast the beef briefly while brushing it with the glaze, then roll it in the crisp onions and let it rest. This “make ahead” method ensures your holiday meal is just as delicious, saving you precious time for celebration with loved ones!

Ale-Glazed Beef Fillet Variations

Feel free to get creative with your ale-glazed beef fillet! Here are some fun twists to personalize this festive dish.

Pork Tenderloin: Swap the beef for pork tenderloin to create a different yet equally delightful flavor profile. The ale glaze will complement the pork’s natural sweetness beautifully.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace the beef with hearty cauliflower steak brushed with the ale glaze. This plant-based version retains all the flavors and flair of the original dish.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic kick that pairs perfectly with the rich maltiness of the ale.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the glaze to give your dish a subtle heat. It’s a fantastic way to surprise your taste buds!
Savory Mushroom Mix: Add sautéed mushrooms into the roasted veggies for a rich umami addition that enhances the earthiness of the dish, pairing wonderfully with the beef.
Mustard Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard with the glaze for added depth and tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the malt extract.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free beer and soy sauce to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners, ensuring everyone can enjoy it!
Vegan Adaptation: Use a vegan ale, swap the butter for plant-based alternatives, and replace beef with a robust vegetable like portobello mushrooms to create a showstopping vegan meal.

These variations not only enhance the dish but also allow everyone at the table to enjoy their perfect version of this holiday favorite!

Storage Tips for Ale-Glazed Beef Fillet

Fridge: Store leftover sliced ale-glazed beef fillet in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain flavor and moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 150°C until warmed through, to keep it juicy and tender.

Leftover Uses: Slice and add to salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries for a delightful twist on your meals!

Ale-Glazed Beef Fillet with Crispy Onion Crust Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select a quality beef fillet for this recipe?
When choosing a beef fillet, look for meat that is bright red in color with minimal dark spots, which can indicate age. Select a cut that feels firm and has even marbling for the best flavor and tenderness. It’s always best to buy from a reputable butcher or grocery store to ensure freshness and quality.

How should I store leftover ale-glazed beef fillet?
Leftover sliced ale-glazed beef fillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze it. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for 2-3 months while maintaining its flavor and tenderness.

Can this dish be frozen, and how do I do it properly?
Absolutely! To freeze the ale-glazed beef fillet, let it cool completely after cooking. Slice it and wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped pieces into a freezer-safe ziplock bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven at 150°C to keep it juicy.

What adjustments can I make if I don’t have certain ingredients like yeast extract or malt extract?
If you don’t have yeast extract, you can omit it without affecting the overall flavor too much. For malt extract, honey or maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness and depth to your glaze. Just make sure to adjust the quantity according to personal taste. This flexibility allows your ale-glazed beef fillet to shine, even with adaptations!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the pale ale with a gluten-free beer, and use tamari instead of soy sauce. Ensure all your other ingredients, like malt extract, are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of this ale-glazed beef fillet without the gluten.

Can my pet eat beef fillet leftovers?
While plain cooked beef is safe for dogs in moderation, avoid giving them any glazed or seasoned portions. The glaze contains ingredients like soy sauce and vinegar that might not be good for pets. Always consult with your vet before sharing human food with your furry friend.