The no-fail method of gently smoking and then reverse searing beef tenderloin is an amazing way for rich umami flavor and perfect medium-rare slices. Bonus, it's about as simple a recipe as you could ask for!
Prep your smoker for offset heat, building a fire to one side of the smoker and maintaining a temperature around 250.
Trim your tenderloin as needed and tie it off every 1” to 1 1/2” to help the beef maintain its shape while cooking.
Smoke
Rub with olive oil and then coat the entire tenderloin with an even coating of Tony Chachere’s BOLD blend.
Place the beef on the cooler side of the grill.
Smoke the tenderloin in a smoker set to 250 - 300 for 1 hour until temp reads 120 with a digital thermometer.
Sear
Sear the beef evenly on all sides by either moving the beef to a preheated grill, or to a large griddle/skillet that has been heated over medium-high heat.
Rotate the beef to ensure even browning on all sides, 5 to 7 minutes per side.
Rest
Remove from heat and wrap with a double layer of foil and allow the beef to rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve
Slice into 1" thick portions and serve, top with rich crab imperial and serve with seasonal veggies.
Garnish with freshly minced parsley, if desired.
Video
Notes
This smoked tenderloin goes beautifully with my smoked crab imprerial or paired with mushrooms sauteed in a red wine sauce. I also love simmering down onions from time to time just to keep things simple. But really, if I am going to spend the money for a tenderloin, I am willing to splurge for great crab too. Slice the finished tenderloin into 1" thick cuts for each person. Wrap leftovers in a double layer of aluminum foil and reheat in the same foil low, at 300. You want to heat the steak without overcooking it. Store in fridge for 2 to 3 days. This tenderloin was smoked it the Pit Barrel Cooker - but it will work in any style of smoker or grill you have set the the right temperature with wood chunks or chips.