Tenderloin
✓ VerifiedThe most tender muscle on the animal, as it does minimal work. Yields filet mignon steaks. Prized globally for texture over flavour.
Psoas major muscle, running along the spine inside the loin. Very low in fat and connective tissue.
Local Names by Country
+ Add local nameTenderloin
Also known as: Filet Mignon (steak), Chateaubriand (center cut), Beef Tenderloin
NAMP #189. The most tender beef cut. Filet mignon is typically the narrow end.
Fillet
Also known as: Beef Fillet
Standard British name. Central to dishes like Beef Wellington.
Filet de bœuf
Also known as: Tournedos, Chateaubriand
Foundational in French haute cuisine.
Equivalent Cuts in Other Countries
Equivalences are approximate. Regional butchery variation means these are community-suggested matches, not exact definitions.
Both refer to the psoas major muscle. Anatomically identical.
Recipes
+ Add recipeNo recipes yet.
+ Add the first recipePairings
+ Add pairingNo pairings documented yet.
Cultural Notes
+ Add cultural noteNo cultural notes yet.
Help improve this entry
Know a local name, a regional recipe, or a cultural story about Tenderloin? Share it with the community.