Tender and Flavorful Marinated Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Introduction

Beef tenderloin, known for its buttery texture and rich flavor, is elevated to new heights with this mouthwatering marinade. This recipe combines savory, sweet, and aromatic ingredients that deeply penetrate the tenderloin, resulting in a succulent, flavorful roast. Grilling on the Arteflame ensures even cooking and a beautiful sear, making this marinated tenderloin perfect for special occasions or any time you want to impress.

Ingredients

• 2-3 lbs beef tenderloin, trimmed
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika until well combined.

2. Marinate the Tenderloin

Place the beef tenderloin in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the tenderloin, ensuring it's evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.

3. Fire Up the Grill

Prepare your Arteflame grill by placing vegetable oil-soaked paper napkins in the grill, stacking firewood over them, and lighting the grill. Allow it to heat for about 20 minutes until the center grate is extremely hot for searing, while the surrounding flat cooktop is ready for even cooking.

4. Sear the Tenderloin

Remove the tenderloin from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the tenderloin on the center grill grate for a high-temperature sear. Sear each side of the tenderloin for about 2-3 minutes until a deep, golden-brown crust forms.

5. Cook to Desired Doneness

After searing, move the tenderloin to the flat cooktop area to finish cooking over medium heat. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Cook until it reaches your desired doneness: 120-125°F for medium-rare, 130-135°F for medium.

6. Rest and Serve

Remove the tenderloin from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring tenderness. Slice the tenderloin into thick medallions and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips

• Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the tenderloin overnight, but if you're short on time, a minimum of 4 hours will still yield great results.
• Don’t Skip the Resting: Letting the tenderloin rest after grilling is crucial for maintaining its juicy, tender texture.
• Different Doneness Levels: Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness, using a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Recipe Variations

1. Garlic and Herb Tenderloin: Increase the garlic to 6 cloves and add fresh basil and oregano for a robust herb flavor.
2. Spicy Mustard Tenderloin: Add 1-2 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
3. Maple-Glazed Tenderloin: Replace honey with pure maple syrup and add a touch of cinnamon for a sweet, autumn-inspired flavor.
4. Asian-Inspired Tenderloin: Substitute balsamic vinegar with rice vinegar, and add 1 teaspoon of grated ginger and sesame oil for an Asian twist.
5. Smoky Chipotle Tenderloin: Add 1 teaspoon of chipotle powder and a splash of lime juice for a smoky, spicy flavor profile.

Pairings

• Wine: A rich red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the deep flavors of the tenderloin.
• Side Dish: Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh Caesar salad.
• Dessert: A decadent chocolate lava cake or a classic crème brûlée pairs well with the luxurious beef tenderloin.

Conclusion

This marinated grilled beef tenderloin is a show-stopper, offering a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors. The marinade enhances the natural tenderness of the beef, making it a luxurious and satisfying dish.