Beef Tenderloin is one of the most sought after cuts of beef. A 1 lb piece (excluding refuse) of trim, select grade, cooked, and roasted beef tenderloin with 1/8" fat contains around 1040 calories. This cut of beef is both tender and lean, making it a popular choice for those who want a healthy and delicious meal.

Beef tenderloin is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It also contains a variety of important vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamins B12 and B6.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for cooking and serving beef tenderloin. We'll also take a look at the health benefits and risks of consuming this cut of beef, and provide some tips on how to save money when buying it.

Caloric Content of Beef Tenderloin

As mentioned earlier, a 1 lb piece (excluding refuse) of trimmed, select grade, cooked, and roasted beef tenderloin with 1/8" fat contains around 1040 calories. This makes it a relatively high-calorie cut of beef, but it is also very nutrient-dense. If you're trying to watch your calorie intake, consider serving beef tenderloin with plenty of vegetables and a small portion of carbohydrates, such as rice or potatoes.

Protein Content of Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin is an excellent source of protein, with a 1 lb piece (excluding refuse) containing around 139 grams of protein. This makes it a great choice for athletes and bodybuilders who need plenty of protein to support muscle growth and repair. If you're trying to increase your protein intake, consider adding beef tenderloin to your diet. It's a delicious and easy way to get plenty of high-quality protein.

What Else is in Beef Tenderloin?

In addition to protein, beef tenderloin also contains a variety of important nutrients. It is an excellent source of iron, zinc, and vitamins B12 and B6, all of which are essential for good health. Iron is important for producing red blood cells, while zinc is important for supporting a healthy immune system. Vitamins B12 and B6 are essential for maintaining healthy nerve and brain function.

Cooking Tips for Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin is a relatively easy cut of meat to cook, but it does require a bit of care to ensure that it comes out tender and juicy. First, make sure to let the beef come to room temperature for about an hour before cooking. This will help it cook more evenly. Next, season the beef with salt and pepper, and sear it in a hot, oiled pan until it is browned on all sides. Finally, transfer the beef to a preheated oven and cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 135-140°F for medium-rare, or 145-150°F for medium. Once the beef is cooked to your desired doneness, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing it against the grain.

How to Serve Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin is a versatile cut of beef that can be served in a variety of ways. Some popular serving suggestions include:

• Slicing the beef thin and serving it with a horseradish or mustard sauce.
• Serving the beef in a sandwich or wrap with arugula, tomato, and mayonnaise.
• Serving the beef with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
• Using the leftovers to make a delicious beef stroganoff or stew.

Health Benefits of Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin has a variety of health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet. It is an excellent source of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins B12 and B6, all of which are essential for good health. In addition, beef tenderloin contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including reducing inflammation, supporting weight loss, and improving heart health.

Dangers and Risks of Consuming Beef Tenderloin

While beef tenderloin can be a healthy and nutritious food, it also comes with some potential risks and drawbacks. One of the main concerns with beef is its high saturated fat content, which has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other health issues. In addition, beef tenderloin can be quite expensive, making it a less practical choice for those on a tight budget. If you're concerned about the saturated fat content of beef, consider choosing leaner cuts, such as sirloin or round steak. These cuts are lower in fat and can still provide plenty of protein and other important nutrients.

How Does Beef Tenderloin Compare to Other Cuts of Beef?

Beef tenderloin is one of the leanest and most tender cuts of beef available. It is also one of the most expensive, due to its popularity and limited availability. Other cuts of beef, such as sirloin or round steak, are generally less expensive but may be slightly tougher and less flavorful than beef tenderloin. Ultimately, the best cut of beef for you will depend on your personal preferences and budget.

Why is Beef Tenderloin So Expensive?

Beef tenderloin is one of the most expensive cuts of beef for several reasons. First, the tenderloin muscle itself is relatively small and makes up only about 4% of the total weight of a cow. This means that there is a limited supply of beef tenderloin available, which drives up the price. In addition, beef tenderloin is a very tender and lean cut of beef, which makes it more difficult to raise and process than other cuts. This also contributes to its higher cost.

Ways to Save Money When Buying Beef Tenderloin

Despite its high cost, there are several ways to save money when buying beef tenderloin. First, look for sales or discounts at your local grocery store or butcher shop. You may be able to find beef tenderloin at a reduced price during holiday sales or other special promotions. Another option is to buy a whole beef tenderloin and trim it yourself. This can be a more cost-effective option, as whole tenderloins are often sold at a lower price per pound than pre-trimmed cuts. However, trimming a tenderloin can be time-consuming and requires some knowledge of meat cutting techniques.