Grilling beef tenderloin steaks on a charcoal grill is a great way to enjoy this tender and flavorful cut of meat. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your charcoal grill to high heat, around 450°F.
- Season the steaks: Take the beef tenderloin steaks out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before grilling. Season the steaks generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
- Oil the grill grates: Use a pair of tongs to hold a folded paper towel soaked in vegetable oil and rub it over the grill grates to prevent the steaks from sticking.
- Set up a two-zone fire: Pile the hot coals on one side of the grill and leave the other side empty. This creates a two-zone fire, allowing you to sear the steaks over the hot coals and then finish cooking them over indirect heat.
- Sear the steaks: Place the beef tenderloin steaks over the hot coals and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and slightly charred.
- Move to indirect heat: Move the steaks to the cooler, indirect side of the grill and continue cooking for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until they reach the desired level of doneness. Use tongs to flip the steaks only once during cooking, as flipping them too often can cause the meat to dry out.
- Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks. The temperature should be:
- 125°F for rare
- 130-135°F for medium rare
- 140-145°F for medium
- Rest the steaks: Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the grilled beef tenderloin steaks with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a baked potato.
Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the beef tenderloin steaks and the temperature of your grill. It’s always best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat to ensure that it is cooked to your liking. Enjoy your delicious grilled beef tenderloin steaks!