Introduction
Welcome to Love With Recipes, your ultimate culinary destination for delightful, wholesome, and easy-to-make dishes that elevate everyday cooking to a gourmet experience. Today, we delve into a versatile and elegant recipe that promises to deliver tenderness, flavor, and sophistication in every bite: Pan Broiled Fillets. Whether you opt for succulent beef tenderloin or lean pork tenderloin, this recipe is designed to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It combines the art of pan-searing with a savory sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and a touch of sherry, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that are perfect for any season or occasion. From busy weeknights to casual gatherings, this dish is a dependable choice that guarantees satisfaction and a touch of culinary finesse.
Time
The total preparation and cooking time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes, making it an ideal option for those who crave a quick yet sophisticated meal. The breakdown includes about 5 minutes for prep, 10 minutes for searing and sauce preparation, and an additional 5 minutes for plating and final touches. This swift turnaround ensures you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Needed Equipment
- Large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan: For even heat distribution and optimal searing.
- Chef’s knife: Sharp for precise mincing and slicing.
- Cutting board: To prepare ingredients safely and efficiently.
- Measuring spoons: For accurate measurement of liquids and seasonings.
- Grater or microplane: For fresh ginger zesting.
- Spatula or tongs: To turn and handle the fillets carefully.
- Plate or serving dish: For plating the finished fillets.
- Optional: Instant-read thermometer: To ensure the correct internal temperature, especially for pork.
Tags
Meat, Canadian, Spring, Summer, Winter, Under 30 Minutes, Stove Top, Easy, Family Dinner, Quick, Elegant, Versatile, Pan-Seared, Savory, Delicious, Simple, Healthy, Protein, Dinner, Main Course
Serving Size
This recipe yields 4 servings, with each portion consisting of a tender fillet accompanied by the flavorful sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners or small gatherings, allowing everyone to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal with just the right amount of protein and flavor.
Difficulty Level
Intermediate: While the techniques involved—such as pan-searing and making a quick sauce—are straightforward, mastering the perfect sear and timing for either beef or pork tenderloin requires attention. However, with careful handling and following the instructions, even novice cooks can achieve excellent results.
Allergen Information
| Allergen | Present in this recipe |
|---|---|
| Soy | Low sodium soy sauce |
| Alcohol | Sherry (used in cooking, alcohol mostly cooked off) |
| Ginger | Fresh ginger and ground ginger |
| Garlic | Fresh garlic |
Dietary Preference
Gluten-Free: By choosing gluten-free soy sauce, this dish can be adapted to be gluten-free. It is also suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets due to its high protein content and minimal carbohydrate load. For vegan or vegetarian options, replace the meat with firm tofu or vegetable medallions and omit the sherry or substitute with vegetable broth.
Course
Main Course
Cuisine
Canadian-inspired, Asian-flavored, Contemporary
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kosher salt | 1/4 teaspoon | For seasoning the meat |
| Beef tenderloin steaks | 4 pieces, approximately 6 oz each | Alternatively pork tenderloin cut into medallions |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Freshly minced for aroma and flavor |
| Medium-dry sherry | 1 tablespoon | For deglazing and flavor |
| Low sodium soy sauce | 1 tablespoon | For umami and seasoning |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon | Unsalted, for finishing the sauce |
| Fresh ginger | 1 teaspoon grated | Freshly grated for brightness |
| Ground ginger | 1/4 teaspoon | Optional, for added depth |
Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
Begin by assembling all your ingredients on your workspace to streamline the cooking process. Mince the garlic cloves finely, ensuring they are evenly chopped for consistent sautéing. Grate the fresh ginger using a microplane or fine grater until you have approximately 1 teaspoon of ginger zest. Measure out the sherry, soy sauce, and seasonings, and have the butter ready at hand. Prepare the meat by trimming excess fat if necessary and patting it dry with paper towels to promote proper searing.
Seasoning the Meat
Sprinkle the kosher salt evenly on both sides of each tenderloin fillet or pork medallion. This initial seasoning will not only enhance flavor but also help form a nice crust during searing. Avoid over-salting, as soy sauce will add additional saltiness later.
Preheating the Pan
Place your cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to heat thoroughly for about 1 to 2 minutes until it’s hot enough to sear. You can test the temperature by flicking a few drops of water into the pan; if they sizzle immediately and evaporate, the pan is ready.
Searing the Fillets
Carefully place the seasoned fillets into the hot pan. You should hear a satisfying sizzle. Sear each side for approximately 2 minutes, or until a rich, golden-brown crust develops. Use tongs or a spatula to flip the meat gently, avoiding overcrowding to ensure even browning. Adjust heat if necessary to prevent burning or sticking.
Removing and Resting
Once seared on both sides, transfer the fillets to a warm plate to rest for a couple of minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier bite.
Sautéing Garlic and Deglazing
In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 10 seconds until aromatic but not browned, which can cause bitterness. Immediately pour in the sherry, scraping the bottom of the pan with a spatula or wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits. This step enhances flavor and creates a rich base for the sauce. Allow the sherry to cook for about 30 seconds, reducing slightly.
Reintroducing the Meat and Seasoning
Return the seared fillets to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Drizzle the soy sauce over the fillets and sprinkle black pepper evenly. This step infuses the meat with umami and a subtle seasoning kick.
Finishing with Butter and Ginger
Remove the pan from heat. Add the butter and grated ginger to the pan. Stir gently until the butter melts completely, emulsifying into the sauce and imparting a glossy finish. The fresh ginger adds a hint of brightness, complementing the savory notes.
Serving
Transfer each fillet to individual plates, spooning the sauce generously over the top. Serve immediately to enjoy the full flavor and juiciness of the meat. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Preparation Tips
- Meat selection: Use high-quality beef tenderloin or pork tenderloin for best results. Ensure the meat is fresh and properly trimmed.
- Temperature control: Proper preheating of the pan is crucial to achieve a perfect sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming.
- Adjusting cooking time: For pork, cook until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), approximately 6–8 minutes depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer for precision.
- Flavor adjustments: Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes for heat or sprinkle with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions before serving for added freshness.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 412.9 kcal |
| Fat Content | 23.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 104.2 mg |
| Sodium | 367.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10.7 g |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sugar | 4.8 g |
| Protein | 23 g |
Tips and Tricks
- Use a cast iron skillet: It retains heat well and produces a better sear compared to non-stick pans.
- Don’t skip resting: Letting the meat rest for a few minutes ensures a juicy, tender bite.
- Control heat carefully: Adjust the stove temperature if the pan gets too hot, to prevent burning the garlic or ginger.
- Enhance flavor: Add a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the savory notes if desired.
Add-ons
- Fresh chopped scallions or cilantro for garnish
- Sesame seeds for a nutty touch
- Thinly sliced red chili for heat
- Lemon or lime wedges for a citrusy finish
- Asian-style stir-fried vegetables or steamed greens on the side
Side Dishes
Complement this dish with a variety of sides to create a balanced meal:
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Stir-fried bok choy or broccoli
- Simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette
- Roasted seasonal vegetables
Improvements
- Flavor infusions: Marinate the meat in a mixture of soy, garlic, and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking for a deeper flavor profile.
- Additional aromatics: Incorporate sliced scallions or shallots during sautéing for more aroma.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of Sriracha or chili oil to the sauce for heat.
- Glazing: Finish with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a sweet caramelized glaze.
Save and Store
If you have leftovers, store the fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven wrapped in foil to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze the cooked fillets wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Consume within 2–3 months for optimal freshness.
FAQ
Can I use chicken instead of beef or pork?
While this recipe is optimized for tender cuts like beef tenderloin or pork tenderloin, you can adapt it for chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Be cautious with searing to prevent overcooking.
Is sherry necessary?
Sherry adds a distinctive depth of flavor, but if unavailable, dry white wine or chicken broth can be used as substitutes. The flavor profile will differ slightly but still yield a delicious result.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Replace soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Ensure the butter and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can sear the meat ahead of time and reheat in the sauce briefly before serving. The sauce can also be prepared in advance and warmed up when needed.
Conclusion
This Pan Broiled Fillets recipe exemplifies simplicity, elegance, and versatility, making it an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire. Its quick preparation time, combined with rich flavors and tender texture, makes it suitable for various occasions—from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The combination of seared meat with a savory ginger-sherry sauce offers a satisfying and wholesome experience that can be tailored to your preferences by adjusting seasonings and accompaniments. Remember, the secret to success lies in the quality of your ingredients, precise pan temperature, and careful timing. So, gather your ingredients, heat your pan, and indulge in a dish that will surely impress your family and friends. For more inspiring recipes like this, visit Love With Recipes—your trusted source for delicious, accessible, and well-tested dishes.
