Are you looking for a healthy and impressive dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this recipe for oven-baked deer tenderloin! This lean, flavorful cut of meat is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, and this recipe delivers juicy, tender results every time. Forget complicated cooking techniques – this guide makes preparing a delicious deer tenderloin dinner simpler than you think. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-1.5 lb) deer tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 cup red wine (optional, but adds great depth of flavor)
- 1/4 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
Equipment:
- Roasting pan or oven-safe skillet
- Meat thermometer
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Deer Tenderloin
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the deer tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear.
Step 2: Season the Meat
In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Generously rub the spice mixture all over the tenderloin, ensuring even coverage.
Step 3: Sear (Optional, but Recommended)
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloin for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a beautiful crust and enhances the flavor.
Step 4: Roast the Tenderloin
Transfer the skillet (or place the tenderloin in a roasting pan) to the preheated oven. If using, pour the red wine and beef broth into the bottom of the pan. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare, or 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy – this is crucial for perfect results.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful piece of meat. Slice against the grain and serve immediately. You can use the pan juices as a delicious sauce!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Deer Tenderloin:
- Don't overcook! Deer tenderloin is lean and can become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Trim the silver skin: This tough membrane can make the meat tough. Carefully remove it before seasoning.
- Let it rest: This step is crucial for juicy and tender results. Resist the urge to slice it immediately.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. Rosemary, sage, or paprika would also be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Garlic Herb Butter: Top the tenderloin with a mixture of softened butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs before roasting.
- Mushroom Sauce: Sauté mushrooms with shallots and garlic, then deglaze the pan with red wine and beef broth for a rich and savory sauce.
- Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the tenderloin in bacon before roasting for added flavor and richness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the size of the tenderloin and the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
This easy recipe for oven-baked deer tenderloin is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's perfect for those seeking delicious dishes and best recipes without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy your homemade cooking experience!