The perfect steak

Perfect Garlic and Herb Beef Tenderloin Steak

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 4-6 minutes
Total time: 16 minutes
Servings: 2

Who doesn't love the smell of tender, juicy meat sizzling in a pan? Beef tenderloin steak is a classic dish that combines elegance with simplicity and can become the star of any meal. This recipe will show you how to prepare a perfect steak, flavored with garlic and herbs, that is sure to impress anyone who tastes it.

A Brief History
Over time, steak has been a symbol of festive meals and dishes cooked with love. Whether it's a special dinner or a simple family meal, roasted meat has the power to bring people together, turning any occasion into a special moment. This dish is versatile and can be adapted to personal preferences, making it ideal for any cooking enthusiast.

Ingredients
- 1 piece of beef tenderloin (approximately 150 grams)
- Olive oil (for greasing the meat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 clove of garlic
- A little butter (for flavor)
- Sprigs of thyme, rosemary, or oregano (for added flavor)

Ingredient Details
Beef tenderloin is a very tender cut of meat, ideal for steak. It's important to bring the meat to room temperature before cooking, as this helps achieve even cooking. Olive oil provides an excellent base for cooking, and salt and pepper are essential to enhance the flavors of the meat. Garlic and herbs add a wonderful aroma and distinctive taste.

Step by Step for a Perfect Steak
1. Preparing the Meat
Remove the beef tenderloin from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking, to allow it to reach room temperature. This step is crucial to prevent uneven cooking.

2. Seasoning
Generously coat the beef tenderloin with olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over the entire surface of the meat, ensuring it is well covered.

3. Heating the Pan
Place a non-stick skillet over high heat and let it heat up well. Add a little olive oil, ensuring it is evenly distributed across the bottom of the pan.

4. Cooking the Meat
Place the beef tenderloin in the pan. Let it sear for one minute without moving it, to form a nice crust. After one minute, flip the meat. Use a spatula to carefully turn it over.

5. Flavoring
After flipping the meat, rub the exposed side with a clove of garlic cut in half. Let it cook for another minute. Then, flip the tenderloin again, add a little butter, and let it cook for one more minute. The butter will add a rich flavor and a velvety texture.

6. Finishing
The final flip is done after one minute, and to give it a unique flavor, use the thyme sprigs to brush the tenderloin with the fat from the pan. This step will add an extra layer of flavor.

7. Resting the Steak
Remove the beef tenderloin from the pan and place it on a plate. Let it rest for 2 minutes. This step is essential to allow the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring the steak will be juicy.

8. Serving
Slice the beef tenderloin and transfer the slices to a platter. You can drizzle a little olive oil over the drippings in the pan and mix to create a delicious sauce to pour over the steak.

Serving Suggestion
This perfect steak pairs wonderfully with fried new potatoes and a simple salad of little gem lettuce and watercress. A combination that will make your meal truly memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I achieve a more well-done steak?
If you prefer your meat more well-done, you can leave it in the pan for a few extra minutes, being careful not to let it dry out. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

- Can I use other herbs?
Absolutely! You can experiment with herbs like basil or tarragon, depending on your preferences.

- What other sides pair well with this steak?
Besides fried potatoes, you can serve the steak with grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Nutritional Benefits
Beef tenderloin is rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet. When consumed in moderation, it can contribute to maintaining healthy muscle mass and energy levels.

Calories
A serving of 150 grams of beef tenderloin steak contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on how much butter and oil you use. Make sure to balance the meal with healthy sides for an ideal dish.

In conclusion, garlic and herb beef tenderloin steak is a simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for any occasion. Once you master the technique, you can play with various spices and sides to customize your dish. Cook with love and enjoy every bite!