What Is Tenderloin?
Tenderloin is one of the most prized cuts of meat in the culinary world and remains a favourite on restaurant menus everywhere. But what exactly is beef or pork tenderloin? At Enrique Tomás, we know you're passionate about great food and premium-quality products, so we'd like to explain what tenderloin is, where it comes from and why it's considered such an exceptional cut. Just thinking about the delicious dishes you can prepare with this meat is enough to make your mouth water. So grab a pen and paper—here's everything you need to know.
Where Does Tenderloin Come From?
Tenderloin is a muscle located in the loin of the animal, between the lower ribs and the backbone, just beneath the loin. Because this muscle does very little work compared to the rest of the body, it produces one of the most tender cuts of meat available. Its delicate texture and mild flavour have made it one of the most sought-after cuts by chefs and food lovers alike.
Types of Tenderloin
A whole beef tenderloin typically weighs around 3 kg and has a long, tapered shape. It is divided into several sections: the head, the centre, the chain and the tip. The most popular cuts obtained from a beef tenderloin are:
Chateaubriand
The thickest part of the tenderloin, usually large enough to serve two people.
Tournedos
Thick, cylindrical steaks cut from the centre of the tenderloin.
Filet mignon
Cut from the tip of the tenderloin and widely regarded as the most tender piece of the entire cut.
Types of Tenderloin
1. Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is one of the best-known and most versatile cuts of pork. Like its beef counterpart, it is a long, narrow muscle located in the loin between the lower ribs and the backbone. It's naturally tender, lean and juicy, with very little fat. However, because it's so lean, it's important not to overcook it, as it can quickly become dry or tough.
2. Beef Tenderloin
Beef tenderloin is prized for being an exceptionally lean cut with virtually no intramuscular fat. Thanks to its outstanding flavour and versatility, it has become the centrepiece of countless classic dishes around the world. If beef tenderloin is beyond your budget, there's also a more affordable alternative often known as mock tender. Despite the name, this cut comes from the shoulder rather than the loin and is also referred to as the shoulder clod tender. Although it contains more connective tissue than true tenderloin, it's still a juicy, flavourful cut when cooked correctly.
3. Chicken Tenderloin
Wondering what a chicken tenderloin is? We definitely recommend giving it a try. This small strip of meat sits just underneath the chicken breast. It's boneless, naturally tender and has a slightly rounded, tapered shape. Because of its delicate texture, it's perfect for quick cooking methods and a wide range of recipes.
4. Turkey Tenderloin
Turkey tenderloin refers to the inner fillet attached to the breast. It's a lean, juicy cut that's naturally high in protein while being low in calories and cholesterol, making it an excellent choice for anyone following a healthy, balanced diet.
Which Is Better: Pork or Beef Tenderloin?
Choosing between pork tenderloin and beef tenderloin ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you're looking for an especially lean cut of meat, beef tenderloin is an excellent choice. If you'd prefer something more affordable without compromising on tenderness, pork tenderloin offers fantastic value.
When it comes to flavour, both are considered premium cuts that appeal to almost every palate.
And of course, pork has so much more to offer than tenderloin alone. It also gives us exceptional jamón enjoyed around the world. Now that you're practically an expert on tenderloin, why not discover the delicious selection available in the Enrique Tomás online shop? We're sure you'll find something you'll love.
