Beef Tenderloin with Peanut-Sesame Crust

Ingredients (4–6 servings)

• 2–3 lb (900g–1.4 kg) beef tenderloin, trimmed

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the crust:

• ½ cup roasted peanuts, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted if desired)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

1. Prep tenderloin:
   Pat beef dry, season generously with salt and black pepper. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

2. Sear beef:
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear beef 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from heat.

3. Prepare crust:
   In a small bowl, mix chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes into a paste-like mixture.

4. Apply crust:
   Press peanut-sesame mixture evenly over the top and sides of the seared tenderloin.

5. Roast:
   Transfer skillet to the oven. Roast for 15–25 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness:

   • Rare: 120–125°F (49–52°C)

   • Medium-rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C)

   • Medium: 140–145°F (60–63°C)

   Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

6. Rest & slice:
   Remove from oven, cover loosely with foil, and let rest 10 minutes. Slice against the grain and serve.