What To Do With Beef Tenderloin Chain

The beef tenderloin chain is an often overlooked and underutilized cut of meat. Attached to the side of an untrimmed tenderloin, it is typically removed and discarded when the meat is trimmed. However, with proper preparation the tenderloin chain can be transformed into a delicious and tender cut of meat. This article will explore the best uses for beef tenderloin chain and tips on making the most of this budget-friendly option.

What Is Tenderloin Chain?

Tenderloin chain is the tough fibrous muscle that runs laterally along the side of a full beef tenderloin prior to trimming. It attaches the main part of the tenderloin to the backbone

When fabricating tenderloins, butchers remove the chain along with any excess fat, sinew, and silver skin. This leaves behind the tidy, cylindrical tenderloin roast commonly seen in retail markets

The tenderloin chain is often tossed aside as waste or used for stew meat and ground beef. But with the right techniques, the flavorful chain can be enjoyed in its whole form.

Buying Tenderloin Chain

You’ll need to special order tenderloin chain from a butcher shop or meat counter. Many grocery stores discard it or use it for ground beef mixes.

Expect to pay $3-6 per pound based on availability. Highlight its value as a budget tenderloin option and ask them to save you some chains from upcoming beef deliveries.

When raw, the chain appears as a narrow, elongated piece of meat about 12-16 inches long. It is covered with thick silverskin and cross-hatched with sinew.

Prepping and Trimming

The first step is removing the external silverskin and interior connective tissues Scrape away silverskin using a sharp boning knife, Then slice away any thick white tendons

It’s impossible to remove every bit, so focus on major seams and veins. Some chefs also use a meat mallet or hammer to help break down the fibers.

Cut the chain into individual portions or medallions for easier cooking. Trimmed and cut, it resembles mini tenderloin steaks ready for your preferred cooking method.

Best Cooking Methods

Choosing the right technique is key to bringing out the tenderness of the beef tenderloin chain. Methods that break down connective tissues work best.

Pan-searing – Quickly brown the exterior then finish with butter, herbs, and wine.

Grilling – Medium-high direct heat. Slice across the grain when serving.

Braising – Low and slow braised in flavorful liquid transforms it into succulent, pull-apart meat.

Stews – Simmering in a flavorful broth produces fork-tender results.

Kebabs – Interweave with veggies on skewers for easy grilled kebabs.

Stir-fries – Quick cooking on high heat. Slice very thinly across the grain.

Pairings and Sauces

To balance the leanness of the tenderloin chain, pair it with bold sauces and sides:

• Rich demi-glace or beef reductions
• Wine sauces – burgundy, madeira, marsala
• Rosemary, thyme, garlic
• Mushrooms, shallots, onions
• Mashed or roasted potatoes
• Soft polenta or creamy risotto

Sample Recipe Ideas

• Pan-seared medallions with red wine sauce
• Grilled lemon-rosemary skewers
• Braised with carrots and onions
• Hearty beef stew with potatoes and mushrooms
• Thai beef stir-fry with onions, peppers and chili-lime sauce
• Fajita beef with peppers and onions

Why Use Tenderloin Chain?

Cost – At $3-6/lb it provides gourmet tenderloin flavor on a budget

Flavor – Dense beefy flavor similar to tenderloin

Versatility – Shines in a variety of cooking methods

Nutrition – Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals

Tenderness – Becomes deliciously tender when cooked properly

Convenience – Readily portioned into steaks or skewers

Tips for Cooking Success

• Remove as much silverskin and sinew as possible

• Cut into individual portions before cooking

• Cook using moist heat methods to break down collagen

• Slice across the grain when serving

• Don’t overlook – utilize the whole tenderloin

• Get creative – stuff, pound, marinate, bread, etc.

• Develop techniques until you achieve tender results

Final Thoughts

With proper preparation, the beef tenderloin chain can provide incredible flavor and tenderness. Take your cooking to the next level by mastering this underappreciated cut.

Ask your butcher to set some tenderloin chain aside for you. Then get busy transforming it into steaks, skewers, stir fries, stews, and more mouthwatering meals for you and your family.

The beef tenderloin chain represents the thrifty, nose-to-tail spirit of using the whole animal. Rewarding to cook and delicious to eat, the beef tenderloin chain is a prime example of transforming an overlooked cut into something special.