Demystifying the Prized Beef Butt Tenderloin Cut

Beef butt tenderloin is considered one of the most prized and valuable cuts of beef. But what exactly is a beef butt tenderloin and where does it come from? This tender cut actually originates from a very specific part of the cow.

What is Beef Butt Tenderloin?

Beef butt tenderloin refers to the thicker, fattier portion of the tenderloin that is closest to the sirloin primal cut. It comes from the rear of the full tenderloin muscle.

The tenderloin itself runs along either side of the spine beneath the backbone This long, tapered muscle does little work, making it incredibly tender

The portion nearest the sirloin is called the butt end or butt tenderloin. It contains more marbling and fat than the tapered tail end of the tenderloin.

Butt tenderloin may also be labeled as:

• Tenderloin butt roast
• Tenderloin head roast
• Psoas major

Its high fat content gives it a rich beef flavor and tender texture perfect for roasting.

Where Does Butt Tenderloin Come From on a Cow?

To understand where the butt tenderloin originates, it helps to visualize the full tenderloin primal cut inside the animal.

The tenderloin muscle runs along the spine from the pelvis rearward:

• It starts near the pelvic region
• Extends along the lumbar vertebrae
• Runs beneath the short loin primal near the kidneys

When removed from the carcass, a small portion of the sirloin stays attached to one end. This is the thicker butt end closest to the sirloin primal. It contains the psoas major muscle.

So the butt tenderloin comes from the rear of the tenderloin nearest the sirloin.

Characteristics of Butt Tenderloin

Butt tenderloin has some defining characteristics:

• Rich beefy flavor from fat marbling
• Thicker, irregular shape
• Extremely tender
• Ideal for dry heat roasting
• More fat than the tail end
• Small size equals limited supply
• Expensive compared to other cuts

The extra fat content gives this portion of the tenderloin enhanced moisture, tenderness and beef flavor. Its unique shape also lends itself well to roasting whole.

Common Uses for Butt Tenderloin

The prized tenderness and flavor of butt tenderloin make it suited for:

• Roast whole in the oven
• Grill over high heat
• Pan sear then roast
• Sauté or stir fry
• Broil

It can be served sliced as part of an elegant main course, or used in upscale dishes like Beef Wellington. The roast shape also works beautifully for carpaccio.

Because it’s so naturally tender, butt tenderloin can be cooked with dry heat methods. Minimal preparation is needed beyond seasoning.

How to Cook Butt Tenderloin

Butt tenderloin’s tenderness means quick cooking:

• Roast at 450°F for 15-25 minutes for medium rare.
• Grill over high heat 6-8 minutes per side.
• Sear then roast to add flavor.
• Cook to 135°F internal temperature.
• Avoid overcooking or it will dry out.
• Salt and pepper is often the only seasoning needed.
• Let rest 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

The key is not to overcook this tender cut. Slice thinly across the grain to serve.

Difference Between Regular Tenderloin and Butt

There are a few differences between regular tenderloin and the butt end:

• Regular tenderloin is long and slender. Butt is thicker and irregularly shaped.
• Regular tenderloin is very lean. Butt contains more fat marbling.
• Regular can be delicate. Butt is slightly firmer in texture.
• Regular suits medallions or filets. Butt is better roasted whole.
• Regular is milder in flavor. Butt is richer and beefier.

Why Butt Tenderloin is Prized

Butt tenderloin is considered one of the most prized cuts for several reasons:

• Comes from the incredibly tender tenderloin muscle.
• Extra fat marbling provides outstanding flavor.
• Remarkably tender, smooth texture when properly cooked.
• Deep, savory beefiness needs little seasoning.
• Roast shape gives an elegant presentation.
• Small size limits supply, making it exclusive.
• Very versatile for most cooking methods.

Its tremendous tenderness, rich taste and scarcity add to its prestige as a cut.

Is Butt Tenderloin Expensive?

Yes, beef butt tenderloin is one of the most expensive cuts per pound. Prices typically range from $25-40 per pound.

Limited supply coupled with high demand from fine dining restaurants drives up the price. But the memorable eating experience makes it worthwhile for special occasions.

In Summary

The beef butt tenderloin comes from the rear portion of the tenderloin primal located nearest the sirloin. It contains delicious marbling within an already tender muscle. When roasted, it becomes extraordinarily tender with robust, beefy flavor. The combination of taste and texture make this premium cut highly coveted and priced. Understanding exactly where this prized meat comes from on the animal helps appreciate its value.