Grilled Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Béarnaise Sauce

Introduction:

Grilled Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Béarnaise Sauce is a sophisticated and delicious appetizer featuring tender slices of beef atop crispy crostini, all drizzled with a rich, herb-infused Béarnaise sauce. Perfect for special occasions or as an elegant starter for your next dinner party.

Ingredients

• 1 baguette loaf
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 beef tenderloin filets (about 6 oz each, 2 inches thick)

For the Béarnaise Sauce:

• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 2 tbsp shallots, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped
• 3 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Baguette Crostini

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice and Oil: Slice the baguette into 1/4-inch thick slices. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet.
3. Bake: Bake for 10 minutes or until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool.

Cook the Beef Tenderloin

1. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season: Season the beef tenderloin filets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill: Grill the filets for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time based on your desired doneness.
4. Rest and Slice: Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Make the Béarnaise Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, wine, shallots, and half of the tarragon. Bring to a boil, then reduce to about 2 tablespoons of liquid.
2. Strain and Cool: Strain the mixture into a bowl and let it cool slightly.
3. Whisk Egg Yolks: Whisk in the egg yolks and place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method). Whisk constantly until the sauce thickens.
4. Add Butter: Slowly drizzle in the melted butter while whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth and emulsified.
5. Season: Stir in the remaining tarragon and season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Crostini

1. Top Crostini: Place a slice of grilled beef tenderloin on each crostini.
2. Add Sauce: Spoon a small amount of Béarnaise sauce over the beef.
3. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional chopped tarragon if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 35 mins
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Sauce: For a twist on the Béarnaise sauce, you can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a bit of tang.
• Beef: Substitute beef tenderloin with filet mignon or sirloin if preferred.
• Garnish: Experiment with different herbs like chives or basil for varying flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the crostini and beef tenderloin separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Béarnaise sauce can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the beef tenderloin in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. Warm the Béarnaise sauce gently over a double boiler.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make the Béarnaise sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can make it up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
2. What can I use instead of a double boiler for the sauce? You can use a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
3. How do I know when the beef tenderloin is cooked to medium-rare? It should reach an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) and be slightly pink in the center.
4. Can I use pre-sliced baguette for the crostini? Yes, pre-sliced baguette can be used, but ensure it’s fresh and not too soft.
5. What if I don’t have fresh tarragon? Dried tarragon can be used as a substitute, but use less as it is more concentrated.
6. How thick should the beef tenderloin slices be? Slice the beef into thin pieces, about 1/4 inch thick.
7. Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce? Parmesan can be substituted, but it will change the flavor of the sauce.
8. Is there a vegetarian alternative for this dish? You can use grilled vegetables or portobello mushrooms as a substitute for beef.
9. How can I make the crostini more flavorful? Try rubbing the baguette slices with a garlic clove before brushing with olive oil.
10. Can I freeze the crostini? Crostini can be frozen, but they are best served fresh. Reheat in the oven to regain crispness.

Conclusion

Grilled Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Béarnaise Sauce is a luxurious appetizer that brings together tender beef, crispy crostini, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering or enjoying a special treat. With simple steps and a bit of preparation, you can create a dish that’s both elegant and delicious.

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