To marinate, or not marinate, a prime tenderloin?

Unknown · December 2008

Last year I made a whole beef tenderloin using the marinade often posted on here (soy, bourbon, worchestershire, brown sugar, etc.) Can't remember who gets credit for it but it was awesome -- great flavor and lots of raves.

Now, however, I find that my butcher (NY Butcher Shoppe in Sandy Springs -- a great source!) has whole prime tenderloins that aren't a lot more expensive than Costco's cuts, and I can't pass that up.

Sooo.... is it heresy to marinate a super premium cut of beef like that? Sure was good last year but I kind of hate to mess with a prime cut of beef!

emilluca · December 2008

Marinate for flavor is acceptable for me.
Most flavor's though can be added as a condiment rather then a soak. Remember mustards, soy sauce, etc are acids and break down protein. A prime tenderloin does not need the flesh to be broke down for tenderness.

E

fishlessman · December 2008

im not the biggest fan of tenderloin but i probably wouldnt marinate it. a sauce like bernaise or hollandaise is another option, do a serch on jalapeno hollandaise sauce.

stike · December 2008

well. i vote 'no'. for one thing, you might not get a chance to have prime tenderloin again, and it would be nice to taste what prime tenderloin tastes like.

like fishless said, go classic, with a bernaise, on the side. it will add to the flavor without hiding it.

if prime, it should be marbled, and fat is flavor. try letting it ride on its own and see what you think.

Rooster K · December 2008

Ditto.

Austin Smoker · December 2008

Marinate prime? Heresy for sure IMO. Sea Salt + fresh coarse cracked pepper = yum!

fishlessman · December 2008

i think the flavor is better steaked instead of as a roast, more flavor from whatever spice you use to season it with and its not as "mushy" steaked

William-N-MT · December 2008

When it comes to tenderloin, I have to agree, I want the flavor from the meat, not a marinade. However, the marinade you just described sounds delightful. Where can I find a copy of that recipie?

Unknown · December 2008

at jackcapdir@hotmail.com and I'll be glad to forward it to you.

To marinate, or not marinate, a prime tenderloin?

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