Beef tenderloin with sauce

Beef Tenderloin with Sauce: A Recipe that Combines Tradition with Comfort

When I was a child, there was a dish that always brought a smile to my face: beef tenderloin with sauce, served with steaming pasta. Simply put, there was no other way I liked beef. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for bringing a touch of nostalgia to the plate and is ideal for the whole family. Plus, the meat becomes so tender that it melts in your mouth. Let's see how we can achieve this delicious dish, step by step.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Essential ingredients:
- 1 beef tenderloin (approximately 500-600 g)
- 5-6 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
- Olive oil (enough to cover the meat)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon of flour (about 4 tablespoons of oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar (to taste)
- 250 g of pasta (for serving)
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by trimming the tenderloin of any membranes. This is an important step, as well-trimmed meat will have a more pleasant texture. Once you've cleaned the meat, slice it into pieces about 1-2 cm thick. Use a meat mallet to pound the slices, which will make the meat more tender.

2. Seasoning: Add salt and pepper to taste on both sides of the meat slices. This step is essential for adding flavor to the meat.

3. Cooking the meat: In a large pot, pour enough olive oil to cover the bottom. Medium heat is ideal. Place the meat slices in the hot oil and fry them until they change color and become golden. This process will turn into slow cooking, which will keep the meat juicy.

4. Making the roux: Once the meat is cooked, remove it to a plate. In the remaining oil, you can make a roux. If you prefer, you can use another pot. Add a tablespoon of flour and fry for a minute, stirring constantly until the flour turns golden. This will give the sauce a rich consistency.

5. Adding liquid: Deglaze with a cup of water, stirring well to avoid lumps. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Now it's time to bring the meat back into the pot and pour the roux over it.

6. Adding flavors: Add the sliced garlic and bay leaves. These ingredients will enrich the sauce with delicious flavors. Cover the pot and lower the heat, letting the meat simmer for 10-15 minutes. If you notice that the liquid reduces too much, you can add water so that the meat is almost submerged in the sauce.

7. Finalizing the sauce: When the meat is ready, add the vinegar. Taste to adjust the flavors to your liking. This ingredient will add a touch of acidity that will balance the flavors.

8. Cooking the pasta: In another pot, boil the pasta according to the package instructions. This will be the perfect side to absorb the delicious sauce.

9. Serving: Place the pasta on a plate, and on top, add the slices of tenderloin with sauce. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan over the dish will add an extraordinary flavor note.

Practical tips:
- Make sure to use quality, fresh beef for the best results. You can ask your butcher for recommendations to choose the best cuts.
- If you want to add a touch of extra flavor, you can include fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme during cooking.
- Vinegar can be replaced with lemon juice for a more citrusy taste.

Nutritional benefits:
Beef tenderloin is an excellent source of protein and iron, essential for muscular and energetic health. Garlic has antioxidant properties and can help strengthen the immune system. Flour, used in moderation, provides necessary carbohydrates for energy.

Vegetarian variant:
If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the beef tenderloin with mushrooms, such as Portobello or oyster mushrooms, which have a meaty texture and absorb the sauce's flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace the beef tenderloin with pork or chicken fillet, but the cooking time will change.

2. How can I make the sauce creamier?
Add cream or coconut milk to the final sauce for a creamy consistency.

3. What side dishes pair best?
Besides pasta, you can serve this dish with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.

This beef tenderloin with sauce recipe, accompanied by pasta, is not just a dish but a true family story, full of memories and unforgettable moments. I invite you to prepare it and share it with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!