Are you looking to cook the perfect beef tenderloin? Sous vide cooking is a great way to achieve a perfectly cooked, tender and juicy piece of meat.
But how long should you cook it for? With so many different recipes and methods out there, it can be hard to know what’s best.
In this article, we’ll explore various techniques and provide you with some tips on how long to sous vide beef tenderloin for the perfect result. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this guide will help you achieve the perfect sous vide beef tenderloin every time.
So, let’s get started!
How Long To Sous Vide Beef Tenderloin?
When it comes to cooking beef tenderloin sous vide, the cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the meat and your desired level of doneness.
For a medium-rare beef tenderloin, set your sous vide cooker to 134°F / 56.7°C and cook for 2-3 hours. This will result in a perfectly cooked, juicy and tender piece of meat.
If you prefer your beef tenderloin cooked to medium, set the temperature to 140°F and cook for 2 hours. For a well-done beef tenderloin, set the temperature to 150°F and cook for 2-3 hours.
It’s important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your beef tenderloin. Thicker cuts will require longer cooking times, while thinner cuts will cook faster.
Why Sous Vide Cooking Is Perfect For Beef Tenderloin
Sous vide cooking is the perfect method for cooking beef tenderloin because it allows the meat to cook slowly and gently in its own juices, resulting in a perfectly cooked, tender and juicy piece of meat. Unlike traditional cooking methods, sous vide cooking traps the flavor and moisture of the beef, ensuring that it doesn’t dry out or lose any of its natural flavors.
Additionally, sous vide cooking is the best way to get a perfect cook every time. Since the meat cooks at a constant temperature, it’s less likely to overcook or undercook. This is especially important when cooking beef tenderloin, which is an expensive cut of meat that requires precision cooking to get it just right.
Another benefit of sous vide cooking is that it takes out the guesswork and potential for human error. The sous vide immersion circulator keeps the temperature tightly controlled, so the tenderloin never has a chance to overcook. This makes cooking a stress-free experience and ensures that you get perfect results every time.
Preparing Your Beef Tenderloin For Sous Vide Cooking
Before cooking your beef tenderloin sous vide, it’s important to properly prepare it. Start by patting the meat dry with paper towels. Next, truss the tenderloin with kitchen twine and season it liberally with salt.
If you’re using a plastic zip-lock bag, add your desired seasonings such as rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper to the bag along with the beef tenderloin. Alternatively, you can place the beef tenderloin in a vacuum-sealed bag and add your desired seasonings.
Once the beef tenderloin is seasoned and in the bag, remove as much air as possible from the bag by using a vacuum sealer or by slowly submerging the bag in water until all air is removed and then sealing it.
When ready to cook, attach your sous vide cooker to a large pot filled with water and set the temperature according to your desired level of doneness. Place the bag of beef tenderloin in the pot and clip it to the side of the pot so that it’s fully submerged but securely attached to the pot.
Cook for the recommended time based on your desired level of doneness and thickness of the meat. Once cooked, remove from the bag and pat dry with paper towels. Sear on all sides in a hot pan with some butter and minced garlic for added flavor before serving.
Sous Vide Beef Tenderloin Temperature And Time Guidelines
To help you determine the perfect temperature and time for your beef tenderloin, we’ve compiled some guidelines based on thickness:
– For beef tenderloin that is 1 inch to 2 inches thick, we recommend cooking at 131°F for 1-3 hours for medium-rare, 140°F for 1-3 hours for medium, and 150°F for 1-3 hours for well-done.
– For beef tenderloin that is 2 inches or more in thickness, we recommend cooking at 131°F for 2-4 hours for medium-rare, 140°F for 2-4 hours for medium, and 150°F for 2-4 hours for well-done.
It’s important to note that these guidelines are just a starting point. You may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature based on your personal preferences and the specific cut of beef tenderloin you are using. We recommend experimenting with different combinations until you find your perfect time and temperature. And always make sure to use a reliable sous vide machine to accurately regulate the temperature of the water bath.
Tips For Achieving The Perfect Sous Vide Beef Tenderloin
Achieving the perfect sous vide beef tenderloin requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your sous vide beef tenderloin:
1. Seasoning: Before placing your beef tenderloin in the sous vide bag, make sure to season it well with salt and pepper. You can also add fresh herbs, garlic, or olive oil for added flavor.
2. Cooking Time: As mentioned above, the cooking time for your beef tenderloin will depend on the desired level of doneness and thickness of the meat. It’s important to follow the recommended cooking times to ensure that your meat is cooked to perfection.
3. Sous Vide Bagging: When placing your beef tenderloin in the sous vide bag, make sure to remove as much air as possible using a vacuum sealer or the water displacement method. This will ensure even cooking and prevent any air pockets from forming.
4. Water Temperature: Make sure to set your sous vide cooker to the correct temperature for your desired level of doneness. It’s important to use a reliable thermometer to ensure that the water temperature is accurate.
5. Searing: After cooking your beef tenderloin in the sous vide, it’s important to sear it on high heat for a short amount of time to create a flavorful crust. Use a cast iron skillet or a grill for best results.
By following these tips, you can achieve a perfectly cooked and delicious sous vide beef tenderloin every time.
Searing Your Sous Vide Beef Tenderloin For Extra Flavor
Once your beef tenderloin has finished cooking in the sous vide, it’s time to give it some extra flavor and texture by searing it. Searing the beef tenderloin will create a delicious crust on the outside while locking in all the juices and flavors inside.
To sear your beef tenderloin, remove it from the sous vide bag and pat it dry with paper towels. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add some oil until it starts to smoke. Add the beef tenderloin to the skillet and sear on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
While searing, you can also add some butter, garlic, herbs, and spices to baste the beef tenderloin and enhance its flavor. Spoon the melted butter over the top of the meat as it sears for an extra burst of flavor.
If you prefer to grill your beef tenderloin instead of searing it in a skillet, preheat your grill to high heat and sear the meat for 30 seconds to 1 minute per side. The key is to get a nice char on the outside without overcooking the inside.
Remember, after searing or grilling your beef tenderloin, let it rest for 7-10 minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender piece of beef.
Serving Your Sous Vide Beef Tenderloin: Ideas And Suggestions
Once your beef tenderloin is perfectly cooked sous vide, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here are some ideas and suggestions for serving your beef tenderloin:
1. Slice it thin and serve with a side of horseradish sauce for a classic steakhouse feel.
2. Cut the beef tenderloin into medallions and serve on top of a bed of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal.
3. Top the beef tenderloin with a compound butter, such as garlic herb butter or truffle butter, for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Serve the beef tenderloin alongside a creamy mushroom sauce or red wine reduction for a decadent touch.
5. For a lighter option, slice the beef tenderloin thin and serve on top of a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
No matter how you choose to serve your sous vide beef tenderloin, it’s sure to be a hit at any dinner party or special occasion. Just remember to let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure maximum juiciness and tenderness.
