Tournedos for Dummies

Tournedos is a culinary term that refers to a specific type of steak that is cut from the tenderloin of beef. Imagine if you were to take a big piece of beef and slice it into thick, round shapes. These round slices are what we call tournedos. They are typically quite small, about two to three inches in diameter, and are considered to be one of the most tender and flavorful cuts of beef.

Now, let's break down the word "tournedos" to help you understand it better. The word actually comes from French, which is probably why it sounds fancy and a little bit intimidating. In French, "tourner" means "to turn," and "dos" means "back." So, if we put the two words together, "tournedos" literally means "turned back." This might not make a whole lot of sense at first, but let me explain.

When a chef prepares tournedos, they usually take the beef tenderloin (which is the tenderest part of the cow) and slice it into these round shapes. The idea behind this is that the chef is "turning back" the beef, flipping it over so that you get a nice, lean, and tender piece of meat on your plate. It's almost like the chef is presenting you with the best part of the beef, showcasing its tenderness and flavor.

To put it simply, tournedos are like little round steaks that are incredibly tender and full of flavor. They are often cooked by searing them in a hot pan or on a grill, and then they can be served with different sauces or accompaniments to enhance their taste. Tournedos are a popular choice in fancy restaurants because they are considered a gourmet cut of meat, but they can also be enjoyed at home if you're up for a special treat!

So, the next time you come across the word "tournedos," you can impress your friends with your newfound knowledge of this delicious cut of beef. Remember, it's not as complicated as it might sound. Just think of it as a turned-back piece of steak that will surely melt in your mouth!