Spicy Marinated Beef Tenderloin in Puff Pastry

This Spicy Marinated Beef Tenderloin wrapped in puff pastry is a show-stopping dish perfect for special occasions. The tenderloin is infused with a blend of spices, encased in crispy puff pastry, and accompanied by sautéed vegetables and a rich tomato-based sauce. This dish combines elegance and comfort, making it a must-try for any food lover. Whether you’re cooking for a festive gathering or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Marinating Time: 1 hour (optional)
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (plus marinating time)

Ingredients (makes 4-6 servings)

  • For the Spicy Marinated Beef Tenderloin:
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 1 tsp black pepper
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • 1 tsp ground coriander
    • 1 tsp dried rosemary
    • 600 g (21.2 oz) beef tenderloin
  • For the Puff Pastry (Doll):
    • 400 g (14 oz) puff pastry
    • 50 g (1.8 oz) cheese, grated
  • For Rubbing:
    • 1 egg yolk
    • 1 tbsp milk
  • For Decorating the Puff Pastry:
    • Sesame seeds (to taste)
  • For the Vegetables:
    • 1 carrot, diced
    • 2 potatoes, diced
    • 1 zucchini, diced
    • 1 tsp salt
  • For the Sauce:
    • 1 onion, finely chopped
    • 1 red sweet pepper, finely chopped
    • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
    • 1 tsp sugar
    • 1 tsp salt
    • Black pepper (to taste)
    • 100 ml (3.5 oz) tomato paste/puree
    • 50 ml (1.7 oz) water
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • For Garnishing:
    • Fresh dill (to taste)

Directions

  1. Marinate the Beef Tenderloin:
    • Clean and Prep: Ensure the beef tenderloin is clean and pat-dried.
    • Season: Rub the tenderloin with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, coriander, and rosemary.
    • Marinate: Wrap the seasoned tenderloin in foil and let it marinate for at least 1 hour for enhanced flavor.
  2. Prepare the Puff Pastry (Doll):
    • Roll Out: Dust a clean surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry.
    • Assemble: Place the marinated beef tenderloin in the center of the pastry, sprinkle with grated cheese.
    • Wrap: Carefully wrap the tenderloin with the puff pastry, sealing the edges securely.
  3. Bake the Wrapped Beef Tenderloin:
    • Preheat: Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
    • Brush and Decorate: Brush the pastry with a mixture of egg yolk and milk, then sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
    • Bake: Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 40-55 minutes until the pastry is golden brown.
  4. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • Heat Oil: In a pan, heat some oil and add the diced carrot, potatoes, and zucchini.
    • Cook and Season: Sauté until tender, then season with salt. Cover with water and let simmer until fully cooked.
  5. Make the Sauce:
    • Sauté: In a separate pan, sauté the chopped onion, red pepper, and tomatoes until softened.
    • Add Seasoning: Stir in sugar, salt, black pepper, tomato paste, and water. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
    • Finish: Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  6. Serve:
    • Slice the puff pastry-wrapped beef tenderloin and serve it with the sautéed vegetables and sauce on the side.
    • Garnish with fresh dill.

Serving Suggestions

  • Accompany with mashed potatoes for a complete and hearty meal.
  • Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
  • Pair with a glass of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of freshness.

Cooking Tips

  • Let the beef rest after baking to ensure juicy and tender slices.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—aim for 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
  • Chill the puff pastry before wrapping to make it easier to handle.
  • Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Swiss for varied flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

  • High Protein: The beef tenderloin is rich in protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Antioxidants: The fresh vegetables and herbs provide antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
  • Balanced Meal: This dish offers a balance of macronutrients, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
  • Healthy Fats: The dish contains healthy fats from the olive oil and cheese, beneficial for heart health.

Dietary Information

  • High Protein: Rich in protein from beef and cheese.
  • Moderate Carbohydrates: Puff pastry and vegetables contribute to a moderate carbohydrate content.
  • Contains Dairy and Gluten: Not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity.
  • Balanced Meal: Suitable for those following a balanced diet but not ideal for low-carb or vegan diets.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 520
  • Protein: 34g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sodium: 980mg

Storage

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: You can freeze the baked puff pastry for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
  • Reheat: To reheat, warm in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Impressive Presentation: The puff pastry-wrapped tenderloin looks and tastes like a gourmet dish.
  • Flavorful Marinade: The spices penetrate the meat, creating a deeply flavorful tenderloin.
  • Versatile: Great for special occasions or a comforting weekend dinner.
  • Complete Meal: The combination of beef, vegetables, and sauce offers a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

This Spicy Marinated Beef Tenderloin in Puff Pastry is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and textures in a beautifully presented package. The tender, flavorful beef paired with the crispy puff pastry and sautéed vegetables make for a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of spices, creamy cheese, and savory sauce is a true culinary delight.


Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I marinate the beef overnight? Yes, marinating the beef overnight allows the flavors to penetrate more deeply, enhancing the taste.
  2. Can I use store-bought puff pastry? Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry works perfectly and saves time.
  3. What’s the best way to reheat the leftovers? Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to maintain the crispiness of the puff pastry.
  4. Can I substitute the beef tenderloin with another cut of meat? Yes, you can use other cuts like sirloin or even chicken breast, but cooking times may vary.
  5. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the beef and wrap it in the puff pastry a few hours ahead, then bake when ready.
  6. How do I know if the beef is cooked to the desired doneness? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium.
  7. Can I add other vegetables to the sauté mix? Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus for variety.
  8. Is there a vegetarian alternative to this dish? You can substitute the beef with a large portobello mushroom or a vegetarian meat alternative.
  9. How can I make the dish spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.
  10. What can I serve with this dish? Serve it with mashed potatoes, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.