Braided beef muscle baked
Braided beef tenderloin in the oven: A special recipe for special moments
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Marinating time: 2-4 hours
Baking time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
It is said that a well-cooked dish is not just food, but a story told through flavors and textures. Braided beef tenderloin is a recipe that transforms a simple piece of meat into a feast of tastes, making it ideal for special occasions or a weekend dinner with family. The rich flavors of fresh herbs, combined with the tenderness of the meat, make this recipe a true culinary indulgence. Let’s explore the necessary steps to achieve a perfect result!
Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg beef tenderloin
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 5 garlic cloves
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- A pinch of chili (optional)
- A pinch of curry (optional)
- 2-3 basil leaves (preferably red for a touch of color)
- 4-5 wild garlic leaves
- 2-3 green onion leaves
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 200 ml wine (white or red, depending on preference)
- 100 g homemade sausage (for added flavor)
- 250 g forest mushrooms (or frozen mushrooms if fresh ones are not available)
- 1 carrot (to add sweetness and color)
Step by step:
1. Preparing the beef tenderloin: Start by slicing the beef tenderloin into three lengthwise pieces, being careful not to cut all the way through. This technique will allow you to braid the meat, creating an attractive presentation.
2. Spice mixture: In a bowl, combine the spices to taste: salt, pepper, sweet paprika, chili, and curry. Add the finely chopped garlic, green onion, basil, and wild garlic. All these herbs will enhance the meat's flavor. Add the olive oil and mix well. This aromatic mixture will penetrate the meat, giving it an irresistible taste.
3. Seasoning the meat: Take each strip of meat and coat it with the spice mixture. Once you have seasoned each strip, carefully braid them together, ensuring that the spice mixture stays inside. Use a toothpick to secure the end, making sure the dish remains compact.
4. Marinating: Place the beef tenderloin in a dish and add the wine. This will not only enhance the meat's flavor but also help tenderize it. Let it marinate for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator to intensify the flavors.
5. Preparing for baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a baking dish, add enough water to cover half of the meat and place the tenderloin. Slice the carrot and add it to the dish along with the mushrooms. If using sausage, you can add it between the strips of meat for extra flavor.
6. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake the dish for 50 minutes. In the last 10 minutes, remove the foil to allow the tenderloin to brown nicely. This will create a delicious crust while keeping the inside juicy.
7. Serving: Once the tenderloin is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it sliced, alongside vegetable sides or mashed potatoes, to complete the feast. A fresh salad is also an excellent choice!
Useful tips:
- Choosing the meat: Choose a fresh beef tenderloin with a light layer of fat, which will add juiciness to the dish. Check the label to ensure it is of high quality.
- The wine: Use a wine that you enjoy drinking. Its taste will be reflected in the dish, so a quality wine will provide a deeper flavor.
- Vegetarian option: Although this recipe is dedicated to meat lovers, you can adapt the dish using large mushrooms or marinated tofu instead of meat, resulting in a delicious and healthy outcome.
Nutritional information:
This braided beef tenderloin recipe provides an excellent source of protein, as well as essential vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh ingredients used. Each serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sausage used. It is a good choice for a balanced meal that offers necessary nutrients while also being a culinary treat.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I choose other spices? Absolutely! You can experiment with your favorite spices. Herbs like oregano, sage, or parsley can add a unique flavor.
2. How can I store leftovers? If you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet to maintain juiciness.
3. What sides pair well? This recipe pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh seasonal salad.
I encourage you to put your personal touch on this recipe by adding ingredients you love and experimenting with flavors. Braided beef tenderloin is more than just a meal; it is a culinary experience that brings people together. Serve it with love and joy, and every meal will become a celebration of taste!
Ingredients: 1 kg beef muscle, 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme, 5 cloves of garlic, salt, pepper, sweet paprika, a pinch of chili powder, a pinch of curry powder, 2-3 leaves of basil (I used red), 4-5 leaves of wild garlic, 2-3 leaves of green onion, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 200 ml of wine, 100 g of homemade sausages, 250 g of wild mushrooms, 1 carrot.
