Mouthwatering Beef Tenderloin Steak: An Exquisite Culinary Delight

Beef Tenderloin Steak Recipe

The beef tenderloin is a luxurious cut of meat that is known for its tenderness, flavor, and juiciness. It is a popular choice for special occasions and can be cooked in a variety of ways. This recipe will show you how to cook a perfect beef tenderloin steak that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

1 (1-pound) beef tenderloin steak
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Rub steak with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Place steak on a baking sheet and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until desired doneness.
Let steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Benefits:

Beef tenderloin steak is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
It is also a good source of iron, which is important for red blood cell production.
Beef tenderloin steak is a low-fat cut of meat, making it a healthier choice than other cuts of beef.

Tips:

Tip 1: Choose a high-quality steak. The quality of the steak will have a big impact on the flavor and tenderness of the finished dish.

Tip 2: Season the steak generously. Salt and pepper are the only essential seasonings, but you can also add other herbs and spices to taste.

Tip 3: Cook the steak to the desired doneness. The internal temperature of the steak should be 125 degrees F (52 degrees C) for rare, 130 degrees F (54 degrees C) for medium-rare, 135 degrees F (57 degrees C) for medium, 140 degrees F (60 degrees C) for medium-well, and 145 degrees F (63 degrees C) for well-done.

Tip 4: Let the steak rest before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Tip 5: Serve the steak with your favorite sides. Some popular sides for beef tenderloin steak include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and asparagus.

Conclusion:
Beef tenderloin steak is a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. By following the tips in this recipe, you can cook a perfect beef tenderloin steak that is sure to impress your guests.

Key Aspects of Beef Tenderloin Steak Recipe

Beef tenderloin steak is a luxurious cut of meat that is known for its tenderness, flavor, and juiciness. It is a popular choice for special occasions and can be cooked in a variety of ways. Here are eight key aspects to consider when preparing a beef tenderloin steak recipe:

Cut: The beef tenderloin is a long, narrow muscle that runs along the spine of the cow. It is one of the most tender cuts of beef available.
Grade: The grade of beef refers to its quality. The higher the grade, the more tender and flavorful the steak will be.
Seasoning: Beef tenderloin steak can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices. Salt and pepper are essential, but you can also add garlic, thyme, rosemary, or other spices to taste.
Cooking method: Beef tenderloin steak can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, roasting, pan-frying, or sous vide. The cooking method you choose will depend on your personal preference and the desired level of doneness.
Temperature: The internal temperature of the steak is important for determining the level of doneness. For a rare steak, the internal temperature should be 125 degrees F (52 degrees C). For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be 130 degrees F (54 degrees C). For a medium steak, the internal temperature should be 135 degrees F (57 degrees C). For a medium-well steak, the internal temperature should be 140 degrees F (60 degrees C). For a well-done steak, the internal temperature should be 145 degrees F (63 degrees C).
Resting: After cooking, it is important to let the steak rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Sides: Beef tenderloin steak can be served with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or asparagus.
Presentation: Beef tenderloin steak is a beautiful cut of meat, so it is important to present it well. Slice the steak against the grain and arrange it on a plate with your chosen sides.

These are just a few of the key aspects to consider when preparing a beef tenderloin steak recipe. By following these tips, you can cook a perfect steak that is sure to impress your guests.

Cut

The cut of beef is one of the most important factors that determines the tenderness and flavor of a steak. The beef tenderloin is a long, narrow muscle that runs along the spine of the cow. It is one of the most tender cuts of beef available because it is not used for locomotion. This means that the muscle fibers are very fine and there is very little connective tissue. As a result, beef tenderloin steak is very tender and flavorful.

When choosing a beef tenderloin steak, it is important to look for a steak that is at least 1 inch thick. This will ensure that the steak is cooked evenly and that it remains juicy. You should also look for a steak that has a good amount of marbling. Marbling is the white fat that runs through the steak. It adds flavor and helps to keep the steak moist during cooking.

Beef tenderloin steak can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, roasting, pan-frying, or sous vide. The cooking method you choose will depend on your personal preference and the desired level of doneness. However, no matter which cooking method you choose, it is important to cook the steak to the proper internal temperature. For a rare steak, the internal temperature should be 125 degrees F (52 degrees C). For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be 130 degrees F (54 degrees C). For a medium steak, the internal temperature should be 135 degrees F (57 degrees C). For a medium-well steak, the internal temperature should be 140 degrees F (60 degrees C). For a well-done steak, the internal temperature should be 145 degrees F (63 degrees C).

Once the steak is cooked to the desired level of doneness, it is important to let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Beef tenderloin steak is a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. By following the tips above, you can cook a perfect beef tenderloin steak that is sure to impress your guests.

Grade

The grade of beef is a crucial factor in determining the quality of a beef tenderloin steak. The grading system is based on the amount of marbling, or intramuscular fat, in the steak. Marbling is what gives beef its flavor and tenderness. The higher the grade of beef, the more marbling it will have, and the more tender and flavorful it will be.

Prime grade beef is the highest quality beef available. It has the most marbling and is the most tender and flavorful. Prime grade beef is typically only found in high-end restaurants and butcher shops.
Choice grade beef is the second highest quality grade of beef. It has less marbling than Prime grade beef, but it is still very tender and flavorful. Choice grade beef is widely available in supermarkets and butcher shops.
Select grade beef is the third highest quality grade of beef. It has less marbling than Choice grade beef, and it is not as tender or flavorful. Select grade beef is typically used in ground beef and other processed beef products.

When choosing a beef tenderloin steak for your recipe, it is important to look for a steak that is at least Choice grade. Prime grade steak is the best choice, but it can be expensive. Choice grade steak is a good compromise between quality and price.

Seasoning

Seasoning is an essential part of cooking beef tenderloin steak. The right combination of herbs and spices can enhance the natural flavor of the steak and create a truly memorable dining experience. Salt and pepper are the two most basic seasonings, but there are many other options to choose from. Garlic, thyme, and rosemary are all classic pairings for beef, but you can also experiment with other herbs and spices, such as paprika, cumin, or chili powder.

Facet 1: The Role of Salt
Salt is an essential seasoning for beef tenderloin steak because it helps to draw out the natural flavors of the meat. It also helps to create a crispy crust on the outside of the steak, while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Facet 2: The Role of Pepper
Pepper is another essential seasoning for beef tenderloin steak because it adds a subtle spiciness that complements the flavor of the meat. Black pepper is the most common type of pepper used for seasoning steak, but you can also use white pepper or green peppercorns.
Facet 3: The Role of Herbs
Herbs can add a variety of flavors to beef tenderloin steak. Some popular herbs to use include thyme, rosemary, and oregano. Herbs can be used fresh or dried, and they can be added to the steak before or during cooking.
Facet 4: The Role of Spices
Spices can add a more intense flavor to beef tenderloin steak. Some popular spices to use include paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Spices can be used fresh or dried, and they can be added to the steak before or during cooking.

The best way to season beef tenderloin steak is to experiment with different combinations of herbs and spices until you find a combination that you like. There is no right or wrong answer, so feel free to be creative and have fun with it.

Cooking method

The cooking method is an important part of any beef tenderloin steak recipe. The method you choose will affect the flavor, texture, and juiciness of the steak. Grilling is a popular method for cooking beef tenderloin steak because it gives the steak a slightly smoky flavor. Roasting is another popular method, and it results in a more evenly cooked steak. Pan-frying is a quick and easy method, but it can be difficult to get the steak evenly cooked. Sous vide is a newer method of cooking steak, and it results in a very tender and juicy steak.

The desired level of doneness is also an important factor to consider when choosing a cooking method. Rare steaks are cooked to an internal temperature of 125 degrees Fahrenheit. Medium-rare steaks are cooked to an internal temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Medium steaks are cooked to an internal temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Medium-well steaks are cooked to an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Well-done steaks are cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Once you have chosen a cooking method and determined the desired level of doneness, you can begin cooking your beef tenderloin steak. Be sure to follow the recipe instructions carefully to ensure that the steak is cooked to perfection.

Here are some examples of beef tenderloin steak recipes that use different cooking methods:

Grilled beef tenderloin steak: This recipe is for a grilled beef tenderloin steak that is seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. The steak is grilled over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
Roasted beef tenderloin steak: This recipe is for a roasted beef tenderloin steak that is seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs. The steak is roasted in a preheated oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
Pan-fried beef tenderloin steak: This recipe is for a pan-fried beef tenderloin steak that is seasoned with salt, pepper, and flour. The steak is pan-fried in a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
Sous vide beef tenderloin steak: This recipe is for a sous vide beef tenderloin steak that is seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs. The steak is placed in a vacuum-sealed bag and cooked in a water bath at 130 degrees Fahrenheit for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.

No matter which cooking method you choose, be sure to cook the beef tenderloin steak to the desired level of doneness. Overcooked steak is tough and chewy, while undercooked steak can be dangerous to eat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the steak is cooked to the desired temperature.

Temperature

The internal temperature of a beef tenderloin steak is crucial for achieving the desired level of doneness. The temperature determines the steak’s texture, juiciness, and flavor.

Facet 1: The Role of Temperature in Determining Doneness
The internal temperature of the steak directly corresponds to the level of doneness. A rare steak has an internal temperature of 125 degrees F (52 degrees C), while a medium-rare steak has an internal temperature of 130 degrees F (54 degrees C). As the internal temperature increases, the steak becomes more well-done. A medium steak has an internal temperature of 135 degrees F (57 degrees C), a medium-well steak has an internal temperature of 140 degrees F (60 degrees C), and a well-done steak has an internal temperature of 145 degrees F (63 degrees C).
Facet 2: The Impact of Temperature on Texture
The internal temperature also affects the texture of the steak. A rare steak is very tender and juicy, while a well-done steak is more firm and dry. This is because the higher the internal temperature, the more the muscle fibers in the steak contract and squeeze out the juices.
Facet 3: The Influence of Temperature on Flavor
The internal temperature also has an impact on the flavor of the steak. A rare steak has a more intense flavor than a well-done steak because the lower internal temperature preserves the natural juices and flavors of the meat.
Facet 4: Using a Meat Thermometer
To ensure that the steak is cooked to the desired level of doneness, it is important to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bones or fat. The thermometer should be inserted horizontally to get an accurate reading.

By understanding the relationship between temperature and the level of doneness, you can cook a beef tenderloin steak to perfection every time. Whether you prefer a rare, juicy steak or a more well-done steak, the key is to cook it to the desired internal temperature.

Resting

Resting the steak is a crucial step in the beef tenderloin steak recipe. It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. The resting period also allows the steak to relax, which makes it easier to slice.

Facet 1: Redistribution of Juices
When steak is cooked, the juices are forced to the center of the steak. Resting the steak allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more evenly cooked steak.
Facet 2: Relaxation of Muscles
When steak is cooked, the muscles contract. Resting the steak allows the muscles to relax, which makes the steak more tender.
Facet 3: Enhanced Flavor
Resting the steak allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful steak.
Facet 4: Easier Slicing
Resting the steak makes it easier to slice because the muscles have relaxed.

By following this simple step, you can ensure that your beef tenderloin steak is cooked to perfection and is bursting with flavor.

Sides

When it comes to beef tenderloin steak, the choice of sides is almost endless. However, certain sides complement the delicate flavor and texture of the steak better than others. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and asparagus are all classic sides that pair well with beef tenderloin steak.

Facet 1: Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish for beef tenderloin steak because they are creamy, rich, and flavorful. They provide a nice contrast to the steak’s slightly smoky flavor. Additionally, mashed potatoes are a good way to soak up the steak’s juices.
Facet 2: Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are another great side dish for beef tenderloin steak. They are healthy, colorful, and flavorful. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, which complements the steak’s savory flavor. Some good vegetables to roast include carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes.
Facet 3: Asparagus
Asparagus is a light and refreshing side dish that pairs well with beef tenderloin steak. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, and it has a slightly bitter flavor that complements the steak’s richness. Asparagus can be roasted, grilled, or steamed.

When choosing sides for beef tenderloin steak, it is important to consider the flavors and textures of the steak. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and asparagus are all good choices because they complement the steak’s flavor and texture without overpowering it.

Presentation

The presentation of a beef tenderloin steak is an important part of the dining experience. A well-presented steak is visually appealing and makes the meal more enjoyable. There are a few simple steps you can follow to ensure that your steak is presented beautifully.

First, slice the steak against the grain. This means slicing perpendicular to the muscle fibers. This will make the steak more tender and easier to chew. To slice against the grain, simply look for the lines of muscle fibers in the steak and slice across them.

Once the steak is sliced, arrange it on a plate with your chosen sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and asparagus are all classic sides that pair well with beef tenderloin steak. When arranging the steak on the plate, be sure to leave some space around it so that it can breathe. This will help to keep the steak warm and juicy.

Finally, garnish the steak with a sprig of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. This will add a touch of elegance to the presentation and make the steak even more flavorful.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your beef tenderloin steak is presented beautifully and enjoyed by all.

A beef tenderloin steak recipe is a culinary guide that provides instructions on how to prepare a dish featuring beef tenderloin, a highly prized cut of meat known for its tenderness and flavor. This recipe typically involves searing the steak in a pan to create a flavorful crust, then cooking it in the oven or on the grill to achieve the desired level of doneness.

Beef tenderloin steak is a popular choice for special occasions and fine dining experiences due to its exceptional quality and taste. It is a versatile cut that can be prepared in various ways, including grilling, roasting, or pan-frying. The preparation methods and ingredients used in a beef tenderloin steak recipe can vary depending on personal preferences and culinary traditions.

To begin exploring the main topics related to beef tenderloin steak recipes, let’s delve into the intricacies of selecting the perfect cut of meat, mastering different cooking techniques, and discovering the art of creating flavorful accompaniments that complement the steak’s inherent qualities.

FAQs About Beef Tenderloin Steak Recipe

Beef tenderloin steak is a delectable and sophisticated dish that requires careful preparation to achieve its full potential. This FAQ section addresses common concerns and misconceptions surrounding beef tenderloin steak recipes, providing valuable insights to elevate your culinary skills.

Question 1: How do I choose the best cut of beef tenderloin for my recipe?

Answer: When selecting beef tenderloin, look for a cut that is evenly thick throughout, with minimal marbling. The color should be a deep red, and the surface should be slightly moist but not wet. Avoid any cuts with excessive fat or sinew.

Question 2: What is the ideal internal temperature for a perfectly cooked beef tenderloin steak?

Answer: The desired internal temperature depends on your preferred level of doneness. For a rare steak, aim for 125F (52C); for medium-rare, 130F (54C); for medium, 135F (57C); for medium-well, 140F (60C); and for well-done, 145F (63C).

Question 3: Can I marinate beef tenderloin steak overnight?

Answer: While marinating can enhance the flavor of tougher cuts of meat, it is not recommended for beef tenderloin. Prolonged marinating can break down the delicate muscle fibers, resulting in a less tender steak.

Question 4: What is the best way to sear a beef tenderloin steak?

Answer: To achieve a flavorful crust, heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper, then sear it for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms.

Question 5: How long should I rest a beef tenderloin steak before slicing and serving?

Answer: Resting the steak allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak. Let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Question 6: What are some classic sides that pair well with beef tenderloin steak?

Answer: Classic sides that complement the richness of beef tenderloin steak include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts), and asparagus.

By addressing these frequently asked questions, we hope to have provided you with a deeper understanding of beef tenderloin steak recipes. Remember that cooking is an art that requires patience, precision, and a willingness to experiment. With practice and the guidance provided in this FAQ section, you can master the art of creating a delectable and memorable beef tenderloin steak.

Transition to the Next Article Section:

Now that we have covered some of the most common questions about beef tenderloin steak recipes, let’s explore some advanced techniques and variations to elevate your culinary skills even further.

Conclusion

Throughout this exploration of the “beef tenderloin steak recipe,” we have delved into the intricacies of selecting the perfect cut of meat, mastering different cooking techniques, and discovering the art of creating flavorful accompaniments. By understanding the nuances of beef tenderloin and applying the techniques outlined in this article, you can elevate your culinary skills and create a restaurant-quality steak in the comfort of your own home.

Remember, cooking is a continuous journey of learning and experimentation. As you explore different recipes and techniques, you will develop your palate and refine your skills. Embrace the process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors and ingredients to create your own unique culinary masterpieces. With dedication and passion, you can master the art of cooking beef tenderloin steak and impress your family and friends with your culinary prowess.