Are you looking for a show-stopping yet surprisingly simple recipe to impress your guests or just treat your family to a delicious meal? Look no further! This smoked beef tenderloin recipe is the perfect answer for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals without sacrificing flavor. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. Prepare to be amazed by how incredibly tender and flavorful this tenderloin turns out!
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lb beef tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup beef broth
Equipment:
- Smoker (pellet smoker, charcoal smoker, or gas smoker are all suitable)
- Meat thermometer
- Small bowl
- Basting brush
Instructions:
Preparing the Tenderloin:
- Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps create a good bark during smoking.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Rub the spice mixture generously all over the tenderloin, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Smoking the Tenderloin:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Different smokers will require different techniques to achieve this temperature – consult your smoker’s manual if you are unsure.
- Place the seasoned tenderloin on the smoker grate.
- Smoke for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature accurately. This is crucial for achieving perfect results.
- Every 30 minutes, baste the tenderloin with beef broth to keep it moist and add flavor.
Resting and Serving:
- Once the tenderloin reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
- Slice the tenderloin against the grain into thin pieces and serve immediately.
Delicious Serving Suggestions:
This smoked beef tenderloin is incredibly versatile. Serve it as the star of the show with simple sides like roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. It's also delicious on crusty bread with horseradish cream or in a gourmet sandwich.
Tips for Success:
- Trim the Silver Skin: Removing the silver skin from the tenderloin before seasoning ensures even cooking and prevents tough spots.
- Don't Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature carefully. Overcooked beef tenderloin will be dry and tough.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the tenderloin to rest is essential for retaining its juiciness.
Variations:
- Add Different Spices: Experiment with other spices like cumin, coriander, or chipotle powder to customize the flavor profile.
- Use a Wood Chip Blend: Enhance the smoky flavor by using a blend of wood chips like hickory, applewood, or mesquite.
- Add a Glaze: During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the tenderloin with a sweet and smoky glaze for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of the tenderloin and serving portions. For a 3-lb tenderloin, serving size of 4oz:
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 15g
This recipe provides delicious and healthy meals, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy this easy and flavorful smoked beef tenderloin!