Beef tenderloin is a delicious and impressive meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a special holiday or just a fancy dinner with friends and family, beef tenderloin is sure to impress. But cooking a beef tenderloin can seem daunting, especially if you’re not a professional chef. Fortunately, with a little preparation and knowledge, anyone can cook beef tenderloin like a pro. In this article, we’ll go over the steps to prepare and cook beef tenderloin, as well as some health benefits and FAQs.
Ingredients:
– 1 beef tenderloin (about 4 to 5 pounds)
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, finely chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Remove the beef tenderloin from the packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning stick better.
3. Season the beef tenderloin generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. In a small mixing bowl, mix the olive oil, finely chopped garlic, rosemary, and thyme together.
5. Brush the herb mixture all over the beef tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
6. Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the beef tenderloin to the skillet.
7. Sear the beef tenderloin on all sides, about 2 minutes per side. This will create a nice crust on the outside of the beef and help to keep the juices inside.
8. Once the beef tenderloin is seared on all sides, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
9. Cook the beef tenderloin in the oven until it reaches your desired level of doneness. A meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness. The temperature for rare meat is 125°F, medium-rare is 135°F, medium is 145°F, medium-well is 150°F, and well-done is 160°F.
10. Once the beef tenderloin has reached your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before cutting into it.
11. To serve, slice the beef tenderloin into thin slices and arrange it on a serving platter.
Health benefits of beef tenderloin:
Beef tenderloin is a great source of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscle tissue. It is also a good source of iron, which helps to carry oxygen throughout the body. Additionally, beef tenderloin is rich in zinc, which boosts the immune system and supports healthy growth and development.
FAQs:
Q. How long does it take to cook beef tenderloin?
A. The cooking time for beef tenderloin depends on a few factors, including the size of the tenderloin and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, it takes about 20 minutes per pound of beef tenderloin in a 400°F oven.
Q. Do I need to let the beef tenderloin rest before slicing?
A. Yes, it’s important to let the beef tenderloin rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to distribute evenly throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.
Q. Can I cook beef tenderloin on the grill?
A. Yes, you can definitely cook beef tenderloin on the grill. Simply preheat the grill to medium-high heat and follow the same seasoning and searing steps as you would for the oven. Grill the beef tenderloin until it reaches your desired level of doneness, about 20 minutes per pound.
In conclusion, cooking beef tenderloin can seem intimidating, but with these steps and tips, you can easily prepare and cook a delicious meal that will impress your guests. Plus, with its high protein and nutrient content, beef tenderloin is a great choice for a healthy and satisfying meal.
