How Long To Cook Deer Tenderloin On Grill: A Comprehensive Guide

Seared and Baked Deer ( Venison ) Tenderloin Recipe Eat Simple Food from eatsimplefood.com

Deer meat, also known as venison, has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. It is lean, healthy, and versatile, making it a popular choice for many dishes. One of the most popular ways to cook venison is on the grill, but how long should you cook it for? In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how long to cook deer tenderloin on the grill.

Choosing the Right Cut of Deer Tenderloin

Before we dive into how long to cook deer tenderloin on the grill, it is important to choose the right cut of meat. The tenderloin is a long, thin muscle that runs along the spine of the deer. It is one of the most tender and flavorful cuts of meat, making it perfect for grilling. When choosing your deer tenderloin, look for a piece that is bright red in color and has a thin layer of fat on the outside. This will help keep the meat moist and flavorful during cooking.

Preparing the Deer Tenderloin for Grilling

Once you have chosen the perfect cut of deer tenderloin, it is time to prepare it for grilling. Start by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the meat. Then, season the tenderloin with your favorite dry rub or marinade. Allow the meat to marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will help infuse the meat with flavor and make it more tender.

Grilling the Deer Tenderloin

When it comes to grilling deer tenderloin, timing is everything. Overcooking the meat can result in a tough and dry texture, while undercooking can lead to a chewy and raw center. The general rule of thumb is to grill the tenderloin for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature is accurate. Let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Other Ways to Cook Deer Tenderloin

Grilling is not the only way to cook deer tenderloin. Here are a few other methods to try:

Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the seasoned deer tenderloin in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare. Let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Sous Vide

Set your sous vide machine to 135°F. Place the seasoned deer tenderloin in a vacuum-sealed bag and cook for 2-3 hours. Remove the meat from the bag and pat it dry with a paper towel. Sear the meat in a hot pan for 1-2 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Smoking

Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Place the seasoned deer tenderloin in the smoker and smoke for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare. Let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Conclusion

Cooking deer tenderloin on the grill can be a delicious and healthy addition to your dinner menu. By choosing the right cut of meat, preparing it correctly, and cooking it for the right amount of time, you can ensure that your deer tenderloin is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Whether you prefer grilling, baking, sous vide, or smoking, these tips will help you cook the perfect deer tenderloin every time.

Method	Temperature	Time
Grilling	Medium-High	6-8 minutes per side
Baking	350°F	25-30 minutes
Sous Vide	135°F	2-3 hours
Smoking	225°F	2-3 hours

Source: eatsimplefood.com