Beef tenderloin medallions are succulent cuts of meat that are often regarded as one of the most tender and flavorful parts of the beef. These small, round cuts are perfect for a fancy dinner or a special occasion. Cooking beef tenderloin medallions can be a bit intimidating at first, but with the right technique and a few key ingredients, you can create a meal that will impress your guests.
One important thing to remember when cooking beef tenderloin medallions is to season them well. The salt and pepper will help enhance the natural flavors of the meat. You can also add other herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or garlic, to further elevate the taste. Once seasoned, let the medallions sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
When it comes to cooking beef tenderloin medallions, a hot skillet or grill pan is key. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or butter to prevent sticking. Place the medallions in the pan and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice brown crust. This will help seal in the juices and create a delicious caramelized exterior.
Pro tip: For a perfect medium-rare doneness, cook the medallions until they reach an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking.
Once the beef tenderloin medallions are cooked to your desired doneness, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicy and tender result. Serve the medallions with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking beef tenderloin medallions, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary ingredients ready. Here is a list of ingredients you will need:
Ingredients:
- Beef tenderloin
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
- Garlic cloves
- Butter
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you can proceed with the preparation:
- Remove the beef tenderloin from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. This will allow the meat to cook more evenly.
- Using a sharp knife, trim off any excess fat or silver skin from the beef tenderloin. This will ensure that the meat is tender and free from any tough or chewy parts.
- Season the beef tenderloin generously with salt and black pepper on all sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Mince the garlic cloves and chop the fresh herbs. These will be used to flavor the butter sauce.
Now that you have prepared all the ingredients, you are ready to start cooking the beef tenderloin medallions. Move on to the next section to learn how to cook them to perfection.
Gather the necessary ingredients
Before you start cooking beef tenderloin medallions, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. Here’s what you will need:
Ingredients:
- Beef tenderloin
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Butter
- Fresh thyme
Having all the ingredients ready will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient. Now that you have gathered everything you need, you can move on to the next step.
Preheat the oven and season the beef
To begin, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your beef tenderloin medallions cook evenly and thoroughly.
Next, take your beef tenderloin medallions and season them generously with salt and pepper. The seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the meat and add a delicious touch to your dish.
If you prefer additional flavors, feel free to add other herbs and spices such as garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary. However, keep in mind that the beef tenderloin medallions have a delicate flavor on their own, so it’s important not to overpower them with too many seasonings.
Once you’ve seasoned the beef tenderloin medallions to your liking, allow them to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This will help the meat come to room temperature, ensuring more even cooking.
Ingredients: |
---|
– Beef tenderloin medallions |
– Salt and pepper |
– Optional: garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary |
Searing the Beef
After marinating the beef tenderloin medallions, it’s time to sear them to lock in the flavors and juices. Searing the beef gives it a delicious crust and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Step 1: Preheat the Pan
Start by preheating a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. It’s important to use a heavy-bottomed pan that can evenly distribute heat for a perfect sear.
Step 2: Add Oil
Once the pan is hot, add a tablespoon of cooking oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil. Swirl the oil around the pan to coat the bottom evenly.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
Using tongs, carefully place the marinated beef medallions into the hot pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan as it can lower the cooking temperature and result in steaming instead of searing.
Let the beef cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden brown crust forms. Gently flip the medallions using the tongs and repeat the process on the other side.
If you prefer a more well-done steak, you can cook it for an additional minute on each side. However, be careful not to overcook the medallions, as they can become tough.
Step 4: Remove from Heat
Once the beef is seared to your desired doneness, carefully remove it from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board or serving platter. Let the meat rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Now that your beef tenderloin medallions are perfectly seared, you can serve them as they are or incorporate them into a variety of dishes. Enjoy!
Heat the skillet and sear the beef
Before cooking the beef tenderloin medallions, it’s important to properly preheat the skillet. Place the skillet on the stove over medium-high heat and allow it to get hot for a few minutes. Preheating the skillet ensures that the beef will sear properly and develop a nice crust.
While the skillet is heating up, season the beef medallions with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of oil or butter to prevent the meat from sticking. Use tongs to carefully place the seasoned beef medallions in the hot skillet. Be cautious as the skillet and oil may splatter.
Let the beef medallions cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes on one side. This will allow the meat to develop a golden brown crust. Avoid moving or flipping the medallions too soon, as this will prevent proper searing.
After a few minutes, carefully flip the beef medallions using tongs. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side to ensure even cooking and a consistent sear.
Once the beef medallions have reached your desired level of doneness, remove them from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. Let the medallions rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become tender and flavorful.
By properly heating the skillet and searing the beef medallions, you’ll be able to achieve a delicious and professional-looking dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Transfer the beef to a baking dish
Once the beef tenderloin medallions are seared to perfection, it’s important to transfer them to a baking dish to finish cooking in the oven. This will ensure that the beef cooks evenly and stays juicy and tender.
Choose a baking dish that is large enough to hold all the medallions in a single layer. This will allow for even cooking and prevent overcrowding.
Carefully use tongs to transfer the seared beef medallions from the skillet to the baking dish. If there are any pan juices or leftover marinade from the searing process, pour it over the beef in the baking dish. This will help to further enhance the flavor of the medallions as they cook.
Spread out the beef medallions in the baking dish, making sure to leave space between each piece. This will help them to cook more evenly and thoroughly.
Place the baking dish with the beef medallions into a preheated oven at the recommended temperature and cook according to the recipe instructions. Keep a close eye on the medallions as they cook to avoid overcooking and drying them out.
Once the beef medallions are cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This rest time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful finished dish.
Cooking the Medallions
Once your beef tenderloin medallions have been seasoned and seared, it’s time to cook them to perfection! Here’s how:
1. Oven Method
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the seared medallions to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the preheated oven. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C).
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your medallions, so use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach your desired level of doneness.
2. Stovetop Method
If you prefer to cook the medallions on the stovetop, you can follow these steps:
- Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or butter.
- Place the seared medallions in the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C).
- Remove the medallions from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Remember, the key to perfectly cooked beef tenderloin medallions is to avoid overcooking. Aim for medium-rare to medium, as this will ensure they stay tender and juicy. Enjoy!
Q&A
What is beef tenderloin medallion?
Beef tenderloin medallions are small, thick cuts of beef taken from the tenderloin, one of the most tender and lean cuts of meat. They are typically cooked quickly and served as a main course.
How do I prepare beef tenderloin medallions?
To prepare beef tenderloin medallions, start by trimming the fat and silver skin from the tenderloin. Cut into 1 to 2-inch thick medallions. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices. Heat oil in a skillet over high heat and cook the medallions for a few minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
What is the best way to cook beef tenderloin medallions?
The best way to cook beef tenderloin medallions is to sear them in a hot skillet over high heat for a few minutes on each side. This will give them a nice crust while keeping them tender and juicy on the inside. Alternatively, you can also grill or broil them for a slightly different flavor.
What can I serve with beef tenderloin medallions?
Beef tenderloin medallions pair well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a sauce, such as a creamy peppercorn sauce or a red wine reduction.
How long does it take to cook beef tenderloin medallions?
The cooking time for beef tenderloin medallions will depend on the thickness of the medallions and your desired level of doneness. On average, they typically take about 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium. Thicker cuts may require a bit more time, while thinner cuts will cook faster.
What is beef tenderloin medallion?
Beef tenderloin medallion is a cut of beef that comes from the tenderloin area of a cow. It is a small, round piece of meat that is lean and tender.
How do I cook beef tenderloin medallions?
To cook beef tenderloin medallions, start by seasoning them with salt and pepper. Then, heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the medallions for about 2 minutes on each side. Once they are seared, transfer them to a preheated oven and cook for about 6-8 minutes for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness. Let the medallions rest for a few minutes before serving.