Have you ever made filet Américain at home? It’s incredibly simple and absolutely delicious. You can adjust the flavors exactly to your liking. This is my go-to recipe, including some tasty topping suggestions!
What Is Filet Américain?
Filet Américain is made from finely ground raw beef mixed with various seasonings. Depending on where you live in the world, you might know if from your local butcher or from the supermarket. It has been a popular sandwich spread in the Netherlands for as long as I can remember — and now, with this recipe, you can easily make it at home! (check out all my Dutch recipes here)
The Origin of Filet Américain
Interestingly, Filet Americain originated in Belgium, where it’s known as Américain préparé. Despite the name, it has no actual connection to America. The name became popular during the 1920s — the roaring twenties — when American culture was all the rage in Europe.
Recipe Ingredients
- Ground beef (tartare-quality)
- Mayonnaise
- Dijon mustard
- Worcestershire sauce
- Paprika powder
- Soy sauce
- Sambal (Indonesian chili paste)
- Ketchup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make This Recipe
Making this popular Dutch spread is really very simple. You need a food processor (preferably small) and you simply add all the ingredients to it. Blend until you have a smooth, creamy consistency. If you want it to be even creamier, you can add more mayonnaise. And that’s all there is to it. Serve on delicious crusty bread (like homemade sourdough or easy sourdough crackers) and use your favorite toppings. I give you some suggestions below.
Topping Ideas
While a sandwich with just the spread is already delicious, here are some favorite topping ideas to elevate it:
- My personal favorite: homemade pesto
- Raw onions – finely chopped
- Hard-boiled egg slices
- (Truffle) mayonnaise
- Lettuce, cucumber, and tomato
- Tapenade
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Olives
- Pine nuts
Spicy Variation: “Broodje Martino”
A spicy version of Filet Américain is known in the southern Netherlands and Belgium. Add:
- A few drops of Tabasco (or another hot sauce)
- A pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder
- Finely chopped onion
- Pickles
Storage Tips
Store your homemade Filet Américain in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for about 1–2 days. For best freshness, keep it on the bottom shelf, where the temperature is coldest.
Want to store it longer? You can freeze it for up to one month.
FAQ Filet Americain
Is Filet Américain safe to eat raw?
Yes, as long as you’re using high-quality, fresh tartare-grade beef and consuming it shortly after preparation, it’s safe. Always follow food safety guidelines. For pregnant women, it is not advised to eat raw meat.
Can I use regular ground beef?
It’s best to use beef labeled specifically for tartare or filet américain to ensure safety and the right texture.
Can I make it without a food processor?
Yes, you can mix it by hand using a fork or whisk, though it may not be quite as smooth. Chopping the meat with a knife until it is thin enough might be hard to do.
Can I make a vegetarian version?
While not traditional, some people use mashed chickpeas or plant-based ground meat with similar seasoning for a veggie alternative.
Ingredients
- 250 gram tartar
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp paprika powder
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sambal
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Equipment
- Food processor
INSTRUCTIONS (how to make this recipe):
- Put all the ingredients in a small food processor or mincer.
- Blend until smooth. For an even creamier texture, add extra mayonnaise to taste.
- And you’re done! Use it as a filling or add extra toppings of your choice.
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