Introduction
Beef tenderloin is the king of cuts, often reserved for special occasions and extravagant dinners. It has a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, buttery flavor that makes it a favorite among meat lovers. However, cooking beef tenderloin can be intimidating for even the most experienced home cooks. In this article, we will provide a complete guide to cooking beef tenderloin that is approachable for beginners and experts alike. From selecting the right cut to carving the finished product, we’ve got you covered.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
The first step in cooking beef tenderloin is selecting the right cut. Look for a cut with a consistent thickness and a bright red color. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 beef tenderloin (4-5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Season the beef tenderloin with olive oil, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and minced garlic. Place the beef tenderloin in a roasting pan and top with fresh rosemary sprigs. Roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare. Let the beef tenderloin rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
To carve the beef tenderloin, remove the twine and slice into 1-inch thick rounds. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Some tips for seasoning your beef tenderloin include using a dry rub or marinade with herbs and spices like garlic, thyme, and paprika. Cooking times will vary based on the size of your beef tenderloin and your desired level of doneness. For medium, cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and for well-done, cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Video Tutorial
Watching a video tutorial can be helpful for visual learners who want to see the cooking process in action. Check out the video tutorial below for a step-by-step guide to cooking beef tenderloin:
Some additional tips from the video tutorial include marinating the meat overnight for added flavor and experimenting with different cooking techniques like grilling or smoking. Carving the beef tenderloin against the grain will also ensure tenderness and deliciousness.
History of Beef Tenderloin
Beef tenderloin has a long and rich history as a popular dish around the world. It is often associated with special occasions and high-end restaurants. In Europe, beef tenderloin was a staple of Renaissance feasts and royal banquets. In France, it is known as filet mignon and is popularly served with a rich wine sauce. In Japan, beef tenderloin is used in sushi and is known as wagyu beef.
Today, beef tenderloin remains a beloved cut of meat that is used in a variety of dishes and preparations. Regional variations include South American-style chimichurri sauce, Asian-inspired stir-fry, and classic beef Wellington.
Chef Recipes
Here are some unique beef tenderloin recipes from world-renowned chefs:
Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Vegetables by Bobby Flay
Bobby Flay is a celebrity chef and restaurateur who is known for his bold flavors and creative presentations. This grilled beef tenderloin recipe with vegetables is perfect for summertime barbecues and outdoor gatherings.
- 1 beef tenderloin (4-5 pounds)
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 red bell peppers, sliced
- 2 zucchini, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon coriander
- 1 lime, juiced
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Season the beef tenderloin with olive oil, kosher salt, cumin, and coriander. Grill the beef tenderloin for 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare. Toss the sliced vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill until tender. Serve the sliced beef tenderloin and grilled vegetables with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce by Julia Child
Julia Child was a legendary chef and TV personality who introduced French cuisine to the American public. Her filet mignon recipe with red wine sauce is a classic dish that showcases the elegance of beef tenderloin.
- 4 beef tenderloin steaks (6-8 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 shallot, minced
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef tenderloin steaks with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steaks from the pan and set aside. Add the minced shallot to the pan and cook until softened. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, and simmer until reduced by half. Stir in the dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the filet mignon with the red wine sauce spooned over the top.
Healthy Twist on Beef Tenderloin
If you’re looking for a healthier way to enjoy beef tenderloin, here’s a recipe that uses a spice rub instead of butter or oil:
Spiced Beef Tenderloin with Roasted Vegetables
- 1 beef tenderloin (4-5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 3 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Rub the spice mixture all over the beef tenderloin. Place the beef tenderloin in a roasting pan and surround with sliced red onion and bell peppers. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare. Let the beef tenderloin rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving with the roasted vegetables.
By adding more vegetables to the recipe and reducing the use of fatty ingredients like butter and oil, you can enjoy the delicious taste of beef tenderloin while still maintaining a healthy diet.
Beginner’s Guide to Cooking Beef Tenderloin
If you’re new to cooking beef tenderloin, here are a few tips to get started:
- Invest in a meat thermometer: Knowing the internal temperature of your beef tenderloin is crucial for ensuring it is cooked to the right level of doneness. A meat thermometer will prevent you from overcooking your meat or serving it undercooked.
- Let the meat rest: After cooking your beef tenderloin, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful piece of meat.
- Experiment with seasoning: Beef tenderloin is a versatile cut of meat that can be prepared in many different ways. Don’t be afraid to try new seasoning blends and cooking techniques to customize your recipe to your taste.
For more advanced techniques and inspiration, check out online cooking classes or cookbooks that specialize in beef tenderloin recipes.
Conclusion
Cooking beef tenderloin can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, it can be a delicious and rewarding experience. By following our step-by-step instructions, watching a helpful video tutorial, experimenting with different recipes and seasonings, and taking advantage of helpful resources, you can become a master of cooking beef tenderloin in no time.
