Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Garlic and Herbs

Beef tenderloin, a prized cut known for its tenderness and rich flavor, serves as the centerpiece of many exquisite meals. When infused with garlic and herbs, this dish reaches new heights of culinary delight. Here’s a comprehensive guide to crafting a delectable beef tenderloin dish that’s sure to impress your palate and those of your guests.

Introduction to Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin, often regarded as the king of steaks, comes from the loin of the cow and is celebrated for its buttery texture and minimal marbling. It’s a versatile cut that lends itself beautifully to various cooking methods, making it a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike.

Selecting the Right Cut

Choosing the perfect beef tenderloin involves understanding the different grades available and selecting a cut that suits your recipe requirements. Opt for prime or choice grades for superior tenderness and flavor.

Preparation Steps

Begin by trimming excess fat and silver skin from the tenderloin. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs to enhance its natural flavors.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the beef over high heat to create a flavorful crust before finishing it in the oven ensures a succulent and evenly cooked tenderloin. Use a meat thermometer to achieve the desired level of doneness.

Garlic and Herb Infusion

Create a tantalizing marinade or rub with fresh garlic, aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme, and olive oil. Allow the flavors to meld by marinating the tenderloin for an hour or more before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your beautifully cooked beef tenderloin with classic sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.

Tips for Variations

Experiment with different herb combinations or spice blends to customize the flavors of your beef tenderloin according to your preferences.

Health Benefits of Beef Tenderloin

While indulging in this dish, relish the fact that beef tenderloin is a great source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins, contributing to overall health.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overcooking the tenderloin, as it can compromise its tenderness. Also, ensure the meat reaches room temperature before cooking for even cooking.

Cultural Significance

From upscale restaurants to family gatherings, beef tenderloin with garlic and herbs finds its place in various cuisines worldwide, symbolizing celebration and culinary finesse.

Expert Tips and Insights

Chef recommendations include experimenting with different wood chips for smoking the meat or trying sous vide cooking for precise doneness.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for the marinade? Yes, dried herbs can be used in the marinade, but fresh herbs typically offer more vibrant flavors.
2. What’s the recommended internal temperature for medium-rare beef tenderloin? For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of around 135°F (57°C).
3. How long should I let the meat rest after cooking? Allow the beef tenderloin to rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
4. What can I substitute for garlic in the marinade? Shallots or roasted garlic paste can be used as substitutes for garlic in the marinade.
5. Can I cook beef tenderloin on a grill instead of roasting it? Yes, grilling is an excellent method for cooking beef tenderloin, offering a smoky flavor.

Conclusively, mastering the art of preparing beef tenderloin with garlic and herbs elevates your culinary expertise. Whether for a special occasion or a delightful family meal, this dish encapsulates flavors that delight and satisfy. Dive into the world of culinary finesse and create memorable dining experiences with this exquisite recipe.

Source: sunkissedkitchen.com

Yield: 4

Eggplant Rollatini

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Eggplant Rollatini is a classic Italian dish that features thin slices of eggplant filled with a rich ricotta mixture, rolled up, and baked in a savory marinara sauce. It's a delightful vegetarian option that's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering.

Prep Time 30 minutes

Cook Time 1 hour

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant sliced 1/8" thick, (or 20 pieces)
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt for salting eggplant
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour for dredging
• 5 large eggs beaten
• olive oil for frying
• 4 cups marinara sauce see notes below
• 2 tablespoons Pecorino Romano grated
• For the filling (mix together):
• 1 1/4 pounds ricotta
• 1/2 pound mozzarella shredded
• 1/4 cup Pecorino Romano grated
• 1/4 cup parsley minced
• 1 large egg beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• For the seasoned breadcrumbs (mix together):
• 3 cups plain breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup parsley minced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Peel and slice eggplant into ⅛” thick pieces. A mandoline really helps! Salt eggplant pieces in a colander with kosher salt in layers. Do this for 1 hour, then rinse eggplant to remove excess salt. Thoroughly pat dry the eggplant pieces.

• Next, dip eggplant pieces into flour and shake off excess. Then dip into egg and shake off, and finally the seasoned breadcrumbs. Place breaded eggplant pieces on a parchment paper lined tray and prepare oil for frying.

• Add a 1/2" olive or vegetable oil to a large heavy pan and heat to 350f. Fry eggplant pieces until golden on both sides (about 2 minutes per side) and place on a wire rack or paper towel lined tray. At this point, preheat the oven to 375f and set a rack to the middle level.

• Place a 1/4" of marinara sauce into the bottom of a 10 by 15" baking dish.

• Place 2-3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture into the middle of each eggplant piece and roll. Place all the filled eggplant rollatini seam side down into the baking dish.

• Spoon a bit more sauce on top of each piece of rollatini (don't completely cover) and grate 2 tablespoons of Pecorino Romano on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot. Serve eggplant rollatini with remaining sauce. Enjoy!

Notes

• Makes 4 large or 6 moderate-sized servings.
• Use this marinara sauce.  Or make your own or use a store-bought version.
• Use 2 baking dishes if required to fit all of the rollatini.
• The exact oil amount will vary.  You will need enough to fill your pan a 1/2" high.
• A mandoline speeds up and makes the slicing process far easier for this recipe, but a sharp knife can 100% be used with success.
• Salting the eggplant can be skipped, but removing the water from the eggplant helps with achieving a better fry, taste, and texture.
• Leftovers can be saved for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven at 325f until warm or in the microwave.
• Extra marinara sauce is helpful to serve on the side or on the bottom of individual plates since the eggplant rollatini can get dry from the baking process.

Nutrition Information:

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 859