Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Beef Tenderloin with Mushroom Madeira Sauce?
It is a gourmet recipe featuring succulent beef tenderloin steaks served with a rich, velvety sauce made from mushrooms and Madeira wine.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What are the main nutritional facts per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 500 calories, 35g of fat, 10g of carbohydrates, and 35g of protein.
What type of beef is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 beef tenderloin steaks, each about 5 ounces and 1-inch thick.
What kind of mushrooms should I use?
The recipe specifies 14 ounces of sliced white button mushrooms.
Can I substitute Madeira wine with something else?
Yes, you can substitute Madeira wine with dry sherry for a slightly different flavor profile.
How long should I sauté the mushrooms?
The mushrooms should be sautéed for approximately 10 minutes until they are tender and golden.
What aromatics are used in the sauce?
The sauce uses finely chopped shallots and minced garlic as aromatics.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, if you do not have fresh thyme, you can use 1-2 teaspoons of dried thyme instead.
How long do I sear the beef tenderloin steaks?
Sear the steaks for about 3 minutes per side for a medium-rare finish.
What is the purpose of the flour in the recipe?
Flour is mixed with melted butter to create a roux, which is used to thicken the sauce.
How much beef broth is required?
The recipe requires 1.5 cups of beef broth for the sauce.
How much whipping cream is added?
The sauce includes 0.5 cups of whipping cream.
What is the total amount of butter used?
The recipe uses 4 tablespoons of butter, plus an additional tablespoon for the roux.
How should the steaks be prepared before cooking?
The steaks should be seasoned on both sides with salt and pepper.
What is the first step in making the sauce?
The process begins by melting butter and sautéing the mushrooms until golden.
How much should the Madeira wine be reduced?
The Madeira wine should be boiled and reduced by half, which takes about 3 minutes.
To what volume should the beef broth be reduced?
The beef broth should be boiled until it reduces to about 2/3 cup.
What kind of oil is used for searing?
2 tablespoons of olive oil are used in combination with butter for searing the steaks.
How long should the steaks stay in the sauce before serving?
Return the cooked steaks to the skillet and let them heat through in the sauce for about 1 minute.
What tags are associated with this dish?
Tags include beef tenderloin, steak, madeira sauce, mushrooms, gourmet recipe, elegant dinner, and comfort food.
Is there any fiber or sugar in this recipe?
According to the nutrition data, fiber and sugar content are not specified or are negligible.
How much garlic is used?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of minced garlic.
What equipment is recommended for cooking?
A large heavy skillet is recommended for best results.
How are the shallots prepared?
The shallots should be finely chopped, totaling about 2-3 tablespoons.
When do I add the fresh thyme?
Incorporate the fresh thyme into the mushroom mixture after sautéing the shallots and garlic.
What is the preparation for the mushrooms?
The mushrooms should be cleaned and sliced before cooking.
Should the steaks be covered after searing?
Yes, once seared, transfer the steaks to a plate and cover them to keep warm.
How do I serve the dish?
Transfer the steaks to serving plates and generously spoon the mushroom Madeira sauce over them.
Is this recipe suitable for an elegant dinner?
Yes, the description identifies it as a gourmet experience perfect for special occasions or elegant home dinners.