What to Do with Bacon Grease
Bacon grease is one of those kitchen treasures that many of us overlook. If you’re like me, you might have cooked up a storm with bacon, only to find yourself with a jar of that greasy goodness sitting in your fridge. So, what to do with bacon grease? Well, let me break it down for you. Not only can it enhance your cooking, but it also adds a rich flavor to many dishes. Let’s dive into some cool techniques and recipes that can make the most out of this flavorful fat!
Simple Perfect Roast Beef Tenderloin
First off, let’s talk about the magic of cooking with beef tenderloin. It’s a cut of meat you simply can’t ignore if you want to impress. I found a great recipe from ThermoWorks that you can use!
Key Techniques
Using bacon grease in your beef tenderloin recipe can elevate its taste. Here’s how:
1. Using a meat thermometer: The key here is not to wing it. A good meat thermometer will ensure your tenderloin is cooked perfectly—medium-rare is around 135°F.
2. Resting the meat: After you pull your beef from the oven, let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This is crucial; it helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicy cut every time!
Ingredients
Let’s keep it simple. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Beef tenderloin
– Salt and pepper
– Garlic
– Bacon grease (obviously!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven: Get your oven to about 425°F.
2. Season the beef: Rub it down with salt, pepper, and bacon grease. Yes, you heard that right! It adds a great baseline flavor.
3. Sear the beef: Using a hot skillet, sear your beef on all sides. Trust me, this is where the magic happens—it locks in those flavors!
4. Roast it: Transfer the tenderloin to the oven and roast until it reaches your desired doneness.
Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe
Next up is a classic Roasted Beef Tenderloin recipe from The Pioneer Woman.
Recipe Overview
This recipe not only sings flavor but also looks stunning on your table. If you’re having friends over or celebrating something, this is the dish to make.
Key Ingredients
– Beef tenderloin
– Salt and pepper
– Butter
– Garlic
– Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme
– A splash of bacon grease for that extra layer of flavor
Cooking Method
1. Searing: Start with high heat! Searing locks in the juices and creates that outer crust we love.
2. Finish in the Oven: After searing, pop it in the oven to finish cooking. The herbs will perfume the beef beautifully.
Slow Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe
Now, if you’re in the mood for something low and slow, check out the Slow Roasted Beef Tenderloin by Serious Eats.
Recipe Overview
This slow-roasting technique is a game changer. It results in tender, fork-tender beef that melts in your mouth.
Key Tips
1. Low-heat roasting: This makes a huge difference! It allows the meat to cook evenly without drying out.
2. Seasoning and marinating: Using bacon grease before slow-roasting amps up the flavor profile significantly.
Final Steps
– Carving: Use a sharp knife to carve your tenderloin.
– Suggested Side Pairings: Think garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. They complement the richness of the beef perfectly!
Conclusion
Bacon grease is more than just a leftover—it’s a culinary secret weapon. I’ve shown you how to use it in beef tenderloin recipes, but there’s a whole world of possibilities with this tasty fat. I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment or share this article. For more delicious content, check out Smokerestaurant.com.
