Crusted Tenderloin with Chipotle Onions

Crusted Tenderloin with Chipotle Onions Recipe - Native American Cuisine

Region / culture: Native America | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

This recipe for Crusted Tenderloin with Chipotle Onions is a flavorful and spicy dish that is sure to impress your guests. The tenderloin is coated in a delicious blend of spices and nuts, then roasted to perfection. The chipotle onions add a smoky and slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender meat.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on a classic beef tenderloin dish. The combination of spices and nuts in the crust adds a unique and delicious flavor to the meat. The addition of chipotle chiles and onions brings a spicy and smoky element to the dish, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

1 tbsp juniper berries
1 tbsp coriander seed
1 tbsp dried oregano
5.5 tsp black peppercorns
0.5 tsp kosher salt
5 whole allspice
2 whole cloves
1.5 tbsp chopped pecans
4 cloves of garlic, chopped
1 beef or buffalo tenderloin - (4 to 5 lb (2.27 kg)), fat trimmed
1 canned chipotle chile
1 onion - (0.5 lb (227 g)), thinly sliced
1 tbsp salad oil
2 cups beef broth
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to prepare

In a blender, finely grind juniper berries, coriander, oregano, peppercorns, kosher salt, allspice, cloves, and pecans.
Add the garlic and blend until a paste forms.
Rub the seasoning paste all over the tenderloin.
Place the meat on a rack in a roasting pan measuring 12 by 17 inches.
Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (218°C) for 20 minutes.
Rinse the canned chipotle chile, discard the seeds and veins, and mince the chile.
Mix the onion slices with oil and add them to the roasting pan.
Continue cooking for an additional 30 to 40 minutes.
Transfer the roast to a platter and let it rest in a warm place for 10 to 15 minutes. Skim and discard any fat from the drippings in the roasting pan.
Add the minced chipotle and broth to the onions in the pan.
Set the pan over high heat and scrape off any browned bits, stirring until the mixture boils vigorously.
Slice the meat and serve with the chipotle-onion sauce spooned over each portion.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Variations

Substitute the beef tenderloin with pork tenderloin for a different flavor profile.
Use different nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, in the crust for a unique twist.
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the chipotle-onion sauce for a tangy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely grind the spices and nuts in a blender to create a smooth paste for the crust.

- Roast the tenderloin at a high temperature to ensure a crispy and flavorful crust.

- Let the meat rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat tender.

- Skim off any excess fat from the pan drippings before making the chipotle-onion sauce for a lighter and healthier dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Crusted Tenderloin with Chipotle Onions with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the tenderloin at a high temperature ensures a crispy and flavorful crust.

- Letting the meat rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

- Skimming off excess fat from the pan drippings creates a lighter and healthier sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of nuts in place of pecans for the crust.

- Substitute the chipotle chile with smoked paprika for a milder flavor.

- Use chicken or turkey tenderloin in place of beef for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

The seasoning paste can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- The chipotle-onion sauce can be made in advance and reheated before serving.

- The tenderloin can be roasted ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the tenderloin and arrange it on a platter with the chipotle-onion sauce drizzled over the top. - Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color. - Serve on a bed of greens or grains for a complete and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, to complement the rich flavors of the meat.

- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a hearty salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Crusted Tenderloin with Chipotle Onions contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. Each serving contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The pecans in the crust add healthy fats to this dish, providing essential nutrients and a rich flavor. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Beef tenderloin is a lean source of protein, making this dish a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which are essential nutrients for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (pecans) and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a balanced and nutritious option for a special occasion or holiday meal. It is high in protein and essential nutrients, while being low in carbohydrates.

Summary

This Crusted Tenderloin with Chipotle Onions is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal. The tenderloin is coated in a spicy and nutty crust, then roasted to perfection. The chipotle onions add a smoky and sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender meat. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something special. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria at her cozy little cottage in the countryside. Maria was known in our town as the best cook around, and I was always eager to learn from her.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most tantalizing aroma. Maria was standing at the stove, a look of concentration on her face as she seared a beautiful piece of tenderloin in a cast iron skillet. The meat sizzled and popped, filling the room with the most mouth-watering scent.

"What are you making, Maria?" I asked, unable to contain my curiosity.

"Oh, just a little something I picked up from an old friend," she replied with a twinkle in her eye. "Crusted tenderloin with chipotle onions. It's a real showstopper."

I watched in awe as Maria expertly seasoned the tenderloin with a blend of spices and herbs, creating a crust that was both savory and fragrant. The chipotle onions sizzled in a separate pan, their smoky aroma mingling with the scent of the searing meat.

As Maria plated the dish, I couldn't wait to take my first bite. The tenderloin was perfectly cooked, juicy and tender, with a flavorful crust that added a delightful crunch. The chipotle onions were the perfect accompaniment, adding a spicy kick that balanced out the richness of the meat.

I savored every bite, savoring the flavors that danced on my tongue. This was no ordinary dish – it was a masterpiece, a symphony of flavors and textures that left me speechless.

After finishing my meal, I begged Maria to teach me how to make the dish. She smiled and agreed, happy to pass on her knowledge to a willing student. We spent the rest of the afternoon in her kitchen, with Maria guiding me through each step of the recipe.

I learned how to select the perfect cut of tenderloin, how to season it just right, and how to sear it to perfection. I learned the secret to creating the perfect crust – a blend of spices and herbs that added depth and complexity to the dish.

But the real magic, I soon discovered, lay in the chipotle onions. Maria showed me how to caramelize them just so, how to infuse them with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers. The onions were a revelation, adding a fiery kick that elevated the dish to a whole new level.

As I cooked alongside Maria, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. I was learning from the best, mastering a recipe that had been passed down through generations. This wasn't just about cooking – it was about tradition, about honoring the past while creating something new and exciting.

When the dish was finally ready, I plated it with care, just as Maria had shown me. The tenderloin gleamed with a golden crust, the chipotle onions glistening with caramelized goodness. It was a work of art, a feast for the senses that I was proud to have created.

As I took my first bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. It was a dish that spoke to me, that captured the essence of good food and good company. It was a dish that brought people together, that created memories and stories to be shared for years to come.

And so, every time I make crusted tenderloin with chipotle onions, I think back to that warm summer day in Maria's kitchen. I think of the laughter and the camaraderie, of the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. I think of the tradition and the heritage that I am proud to carry on.

This recipe may have come from an old friend, but it has become a part of me. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us, to bring us closer together. And for that, I am forever grateful.