Barbecue enthusiasts, welcome to an exclusive guide on cooking the perfect beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill! This remarkable journey will take you through every step from preparation to that life-changing first bite.

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Understanding Your Beef Tenderloin

The first step in creating a mouthwatering beef tenderloin is selecting the perfect cut. Your beef tenderloin should be of the highest quality, tender, and well-marbled. For those who might need a visual guide, consider checking out some tips on using a charcoal barbecue to get started.

Setting Up Your Charcoal Grill

Lighting the Charcoal

Before cooking, you need to light your charcoal grill correctly. Use a chimney starter to get the charcoal burning evenly. This process typically takes about 15-20 minutes. For more details on lighting your charcoal grill, read this BBQ champs guide.

Preparing the Grill

Once your charcoal is ready, arrange the coals for indirect grilling by putting them on one side of the grill. This setup allows you to sear the beef tenderloin and then cook it slowly at a lower temperature.

Prepping the Beef Tenderloin

Seasoning

Barbecue lovers know that seasoning is key to flavor. Generously apply your favorite rub or a simple mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the tenderloin. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Tying the Tenderloin

Tying the beef tenderloin with butcher's twine helps it cook evenly. Tie it at 1-inch intervals down the length of the tenderloin.

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Cooking the Beef Tenderloin

Searing

Sear the tenderloin over the high-heat side of the grill for about 2-3 minutes per side. This step locks in the juices and gives the tenderloin a flavorful crust.

Indirect Grilling

Move the tenderloin to the indirect heat side of the grill. Aim to maintain a grill temperature of around 250-300F. Cooking time will vary based on the size of your tenderloin, usually about 20-25 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness - aim for an internal temperature of 135F for medium-rare.

Resting and Serving

Let the beef tenderloin rest for about 10-15 minutes after cooking. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender bite. Slice and serve immediately.

Additional Tips and Tricks

Understanding cooking temperatures and times can significantly affect your grilling success. If interested in grilling other meats, you might want to check these guides: Ribeye Cooking Time and Baby Back Ribs Tips.

FAQ

What is the best temperature to grill beef tenderloin?

The ideal grill temperature for beef tenderloin is around 250-300F.

How do I know when my beef tenderloin is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135F.

How do I keep beef tenderloin juicy?

Letting the beef tenderloin rest for about 10-15 minutes after grilling helps keep it juicy.

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