Are you craving a truly impressive yet surprisingly simple dinner that will wow your guests? Look no further! This beef tenderloin recipe takes inspiration from the culinary genius of Jamie Oliver, offering a delicious and elegant meal without the fuss. It's perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat when you want to feel like you’re dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant. This recipe delivers incredible flavour and tender, juicy beef every time, making it one of the best recipes in your healthy meals repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef tenderloin, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Beef
Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Searing the Beef
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step creates a delicious crust and locks in the juices.
Step 3: Building Flavor
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Deglazing and Simmering
Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits – this adds incredible depth of flavour to the sauce! Stir in the Dijon mustard and thyme leaves.
Step 5: Slow Cooking to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the beef reaches 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.
Step 6: Resting and Serving
Remove the beef from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in an incredibly tender and flavorful steak. While the beef rests, you can thicken the sauce slightly by simmering it on the stovetop for a few minutes. Slice the beef against the grain and serve immediately, drizzled with the delicious pan sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Beef Tenderloin:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the beef in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the beef is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Let it rest: Resting is crucial for a juicy and tender steak.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your tenderloin and your oven.
Variations:
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or oregano.
- Mushroom sauce: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions for a richer sauce.
- Garlic butter: Top the seared beef with a compound butter made with garlic, herbs, and salt before roasting for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This beef tenderloin recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver incredible results. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for impressing your family and friends. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal! It's a guaranteed addition to your list of homemade cooking triumphs and one of the best recipes for any occasion.