What Is Tenderloin?
Tenderloin is one of the most highly prized cuts in the culinary world and is still considered one of the finest dishes on many restaurant menus. But what exactly is beef or pork tenderloin? At Enrique Tomás, we know you appreciate great food and premium-quality products, so we'd like to tell you everything you need to know about tenderloin and what makes it such a special cut. Just thinking about the incredible dishes you can prepare with this delicious meat is enough to make your mouth water. So grab a pen and paper and let's get started!
Where Does Tenderloin Come From?
Tenderloin is a muscle located in the loin of the animal, between the lower ribs and the spine, just beneath the loin itself. It's one of the most tender parts of the pig because it does very little work compared to the other muscles.
Types of Tenderloin
When talking about beef tenderloin, the whole cut can weigh around 3 kg (6.5 lb). It has a tapered shape and is divided into several sections: the head, the chain, the centre and the tip. The most popular cuts include:
Chateaubriand
The thickest section, usually large enough for two servings.
Tournedos
A thick, cylindrical steak cut from the centre of the tenderloin.
Filet mignon
Cut from the tip and considered the most tender part of the entire animal.
Types of Tenderloin
1. Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is one of the best-known cuts of pork. Like beef tenderloin, this long, narrow muscle is found in the loin, between the lower ribs and the spine. It is lean, tender and juicy, although if overcooked it can quickly become dry or tough.
2. Beef Tenderloin
Beef tenderloin is a naturally lean cut with very little intramuscular fat. Thanks to its versatility and exceptional flavour, it has become the star of countless classic dishes. If beef tenderloin is beyond your budget, you can choose mock tender instead. This cut comes from the shoulder area and is also known as the shoulder clod tender. Although it contains more connective tissue than true tenderloin, it is still juicy, flavoursome and excellent value.
3. Chicken Tenderloin
If you've ever wondered what chicken tenderloin is and whether it's worth trying, our answer is definitely yes. Chicken tenderloin is the small strip of meat attached to the underside of the chicken breast. It is boneless, naturally tender and has a rounded, tapered shape.
4. Turkey Tenderloin
Turkey tenderloin refers to the inner muscle of the turkey breast. It is a juicy, high-protein cut that is naturally low in calories and cholesterol, making it an excellent choice for anyone following a healthy diet.
Which Is Better: Pork or Beef Tenderloin?
Whether pork tenderloin or beef tenderloin is better ultimately comes down to personal taste. If you're looking for a leaner cut, beef tenderloin is the better option. If you want something more affordable, pork tenderloin offers outstanding value without compromising on flavour.
Both are considered premium cuts that appeal to almost every palate.
Beyond tenderloin, pork also gives us some of Spain's finest gastronomic treasures, including delicious cured sausages, exceptional jamón and paletas. Now that you're becoming something of a home cooking expert, why not discover the outstanding range available from Enrique Tomás? Explore our selection in our online shop—you'll find something to suit every taste.
