Ret Soup
Introduction
Valentine’s Day calls for an exquisite meal, and this Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter is the perfect choice. It’s a deliciously tender dish that melts in your mouth and makes a romantic dinner truly special.
Ingredients
Beef tenderloin: 1.5 kg
Unsalted butter: 150 g, softened
Garlic: 10 cloves, minced
Fresh rosemary: 15 g, chopped
Fresh thyme: 15 g, chopped
Fresh parsley: 15 g, chopped
Olive oil: 60 ml
Sea salt: 10 g
Black pepper: 5 g
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
2. Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels and season generously with sea salt and black pepper on all sides.
3. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat. Spread the garlic herb butter mixture over the top of the tenderloin.
6. Place the skillet in the oven and roast the beef for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 60°C (140°F) for medium-rare. Adjust timing as necessary based on your preferred doneness.
7. Remove from the oven, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
8. Slice and serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Tenderloin
Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels and season generously with sea salt and black pepper on all sides.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley until well combined.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Step 5: Apply the Garlic Herb Butter
Remove the skillet from the heat. Spread the garlic herb butter mixture over the top of the tenderloin.
Step 6: Roast the Beef
Place the skillet in the oven and roast the beef for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 60°C (140°F) for medium-rare. Adjust timing as necessary based on your preferred doneness.
Step 7: Rest the Beef
Remove from the oven, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Slice the beef tenderloin and serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Notes
Note 1: Cooking Time Variations
Adjust cooking time according to the size of the beef tenderloin and desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Note 2: Butter Consistency
Ensure the butter is well softened to allow for easy spreading on the beef.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with red wine and sides like creamy garlic mashed potatoes or seasonal roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Note 4: Resting Time
Allowing the beef to rest is crucial to maintain its juiciness, so do not skip this step.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Store any leftover Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, wrap the beef tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
For an exquisite dining experience, consider serving the Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter alongside roasted seasonal vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. A glass of full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the flavors and providing a sophisticated touch.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approx. 150g of cooked beef tenderloin):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 35g
– Total Fat: 22g
– Saturated Fat: 9g
– Cholesterol: 90mg
– Sodium: 300mg
– Carbohydrates: 1g
– Fiber: 0g
– Sugars: 0g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on preparation and ingredients used.)
Ingredient Substitutions
– Beef Tenderloin: If unavailable, you can use fillet mignon or ribeye steak for a similar tender experience.
– Unsalted Butter: Substitute with ghee or olive oil if dairy-free.
– Garlic: Garlic powder can be used in half the quantity if fresh garlic is not available.
– Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs can be used as a substitute; use approximately one-third of the amount specified.
– Olive Oil: Any neutral oil, such as avocado oil or canola oil, can replace olive oil in the recipe.
– Sea Salt: Kosher salt or table salt can be used in equal amounts, adjusting to taste.
– Black Pepper: Any type of ground pepper can be used based on preference.
Cook Techniques
Preparing the Beef Tenderloin
Patting the beef tenderloin dry ensures a better sear, which enhances flavor and texture. Season generously for a well-rounded taste.
Searing
Searing the tenderloin in a hot skillet creates a flavorful crust. Do this on medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side.
Basting with Garlic Herb Butter
After searing, spreading the garlic herb butter over the tenderloin adds moisture and rich flavor, making the dish extra special.
Roasting in the Oven
Roasting the tenderloin helps achieve a perfect internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness according to preference.
Resting the Meat
Letting the beef rest for 10 minutes after roasting allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier slice.
Slicing
Slice against the grain for a more tender bite. This technique helps keep the beef succulent.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
While beef tenderloin is the most tender cut, you can substitute with ribeye or strip steak, but cooking times may vary.
How do I know when the beef tenderloin is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 60°C (140°F) for medium-rare, 65°C (150°F) for medium.
What can I serve with beef tenderloin?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad are excellent side options to accompany the tenderloin.
Can I prepare the garlic herb butter in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic herb butter ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
Conclusion
This Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings elegance to your table. Perfectly seared and infused with aromatic herbs, it promises to impress your special someone this Valentine’s Day. Pair it with delightful sides to create a memorable culinary moment that will linger in your hearts long after the last bite.
Combination with Red Wine
Enjoy your tenderloin with a robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, to complement the rich flavors of the beef.
Complementary Sides
Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or garlic roasted asparagus for a well-rounded meal that enhances the dish’s flavors.
Gourmet Sauces
Prepare a red wine reduction or peppercorn sauce to drizzle over the beef for an added layer of sophistication.
Dessert Pairing
Finish the evening with a classic chocolate fondue or a delicate raspberry tart for a sweet conclusion to your romantic dinner.
Herb Variations
Experiment with different herbs like tarragon or dill in the garlic herb butter for unique flavor profiles to suit your palate.
