Olivia Carter
If you’re looking to make a delicious and tender beef medallion dish, using a slow cooker is an excellent choice. Slow cooking allows the meat to become incredibly tender and infuses it with rich flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient, as you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work.
When it comes to cooking beef medallions in a slow cooker, the ideal cooking time will depend on several factors, such as the size and thickness of the medallions, the desired level of doneness, and the recipe you’re following. Generally, cooking beef medallions in a slow cooker will take around 4 to 6 hours on low heat, or 2 to 3 hours on high heat.
It’s essential to remember that meat cooked in a slow cooker will continue to cook even after it’s removed from the heat, so it’s crucial not to overcook the beef medallions. To ensure the meat is perfectly cooked to your liking, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the meat should reach 145°F (63°C), for medium, it should be around 160°F (71°C), and for well-done, aim for 170°F (77°C).
When cooking beef medallions in a slow cooker, it’s also important to add enough liquid to prevent them from drying out. This can be achieved by using beef broth, red wine, or a combination of both. Additionally, you can enhance the flavor by adding aromatics such as garlic, herbs, and spices, and even vegetables like onions and carrots.
Overall, cooking beef medallions in a slow cooker is a fantastic way to create a mouth-watering and tender dish. With the right cooking time, liquid, and seasonings, you’ll be able to enjoy a flavorful and delicious meal with minimal effort.
Preparation
Before you start cooking the beef medallions in a slow cooker, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure they turn out tender and flavorful.
1. Choose your beef medallions: Look for thick and evenly sized beef medallions at your local butcher or grocery store. Aim for around 1 inch in thickness. This will help to ensure that they cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Season the beef: Before cooking, season the beef medallions generously with salt and pepper. You can also add your favorite spices or herbs to enhance the flavor. Use a mixture of garlic powder, paprika, and thyme for a classic seasoning blend.
3. Sear the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef medallions for about 2 minutes on each side until they are browned. This step will help to lock in the juices and add a delicious caramelized flavor.
4. Prepare the slow cooker: While the beef is searing, prepare the slow cooker by coating the bottom with a thin layer of cooking spray. This will prevent the beef from sticking and make cleanup easier.
![[Pack of 2] Halal Certified Beef Tenderloin – Grass-Fed, Premium Quality from New Zealand, Shipped Frozen with Cooler & Ice Gel Pack – Average Weight 6 Pounds Each](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61bBmrNuljL._SS520_.jpg)
5. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker: Once the beef medallions are seared, carefully transfer them to the slow cooker and arrange them in a single layer. Try not to overlap them to ensure even cooking.
6. Add liquid and aromatics: For added flavor and moisture, pour in a mixture of beef broth, red wine, or your preferred cooking liquid. You can also add aromatics such as chopped onions, garlic, or herbs like rosemary or thyme.
7. Set the cooking time and temperature: Depending on your slow cooker, set the cooking time and temperature according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For beef medallions, it is recommended to cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Cooking times may vary, so it’s best to check the beef for tenderness and doneness.
8. Monitor the cooking process: During the cooking process, resist the temptation to lift the lid too often as this can cause heat loss and increase the cooking time. You can check the beef’s doneness by using a thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
9. Let the beef rest: Once the beef medallions are cooked to your desired doneness, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender and succulent result.
10. Serve and enjoy: Serve the beef medallions hot with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Garnish with chopped parsley or a drizzle of pan sauce for an extra pop of flavor.
By following these preparation steps, you’ll be well on your way to cooking delicious and tender beef medallions in your slow cooker. Enjoy!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Measurements |
|---|---|
| Beef medallions | 4 pieces |
| Onion | 1 medium, sliced |
| Garlic cloves | 2 cloves, minced |
| Beef broth | 1 cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Optional Ingredients:
You can add the following ingredients to enhance the flavor:
- Mushrooms, sliced
- Red wine
- Thyme
- Bay leaves
Cooking Process
Slow cooking beef medallions allows the meat to become tender and juicy. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook beef medallions in a slow cooker:
- Season the beef medallions with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other spices or herbs for added flavor.
- Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Sear the beef medallions on both sides until browned. This step adds extra flavor to the meat.
- Transfer the seared beef medallions to the slow cooker.
- Add any desired vegetables or aromatics, such as onions, garlic, or herbs, to the slow cooker.
- Add any liquid to the slow cooker, such as beef broth or red wine, to provide moisture and enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the beef medallions. The longer cooking time will result in more tender meat.
- Once the beef medallions are cooked to your liking, you can serve them as they are or thicken the cooking liquid to create a delicious sauce.
- Remove the beef medallions from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the beef medallions with the cooking liquid or sauce, and any desired side dishes.
Enjoy your slow-cooked beef medallions!
Seasoning
Before cooking beef medallions in a slow cooker, it’s important to season them properly to enhance their flavor. Seasoning can be done using a variety of herbs, spices, and marinades to suit your taste preferences.
Here are a few seasoning ideas to consider:
| Seasoning Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Salt and Pepper | A simple yet classic combination that enhances the natural flavors of the beef medallions. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt and pepper on both sides of the medallions before adding them to the slow cooker. |
| Garlic and Herb | Create a flavorful blend by combining minced garlic, dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Rub this mixture onto the beef medallions for a delicious herbed crust. |
| Teriyaki Marinade | For an Asian-inspired twist, marinate the beef medallions in a teriyaki sauce. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own using soy sauce, ginger, garlic, honey, and a touch of sesame oil. |
| Balsamic Glaze | A tangy and sweet option, drizzle balsamic glaze over the medallions before cooking. This adds richness and depth of flavor to the beef. |
Regardless of the seasoning option you choose, make sure to let the medallions marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. This will result in a tender and tasty final dish.
Serving Suggestions
Beef medallions cooked in a slow cooker make for a tender and delicious meal. Here are some serving suggestions to complement the flavors of the dish:
- Pair the beef medallions with roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts, for a wholesome and well-balanced meal.
- Serve the beef medallions alongside a fresh salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
- Create a flavorful sauce to drizzle over the beef medallions by combining red wine, garlic, and butter in a saucepan. Simmer the sauce until it thickens, then pour it over the meat.
- For a Mediterranean twist, serve the beef medallions with a side of couscous or quinoa salad, topped with chopped fresh herbs and lemon zest.
- If you prefer a classic pairing, serve the beef medallions with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.
- For a touch of elegance, top the beef medallions with sautéed mushrooms and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
These serving suggestions will enhance the flavor and presentation of the beef medallions, ensuring a satisfying and memorable dining experience.
Questions and answers
What are beef medallions?
Beef medallions are thick, round cuts of beef that are usually taken from the tenderloin or filet mignon area of the animal. They are known for their tenderness and are often used in upscale restaurants to make dishes like beef Wellington.
Can I cook beef medallions in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can definitely cook beef medallions in a slow cooker. Slow cooking helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious flavors. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly to ensure the medallions are cooked to perfection.
How long should I cook beef medallions in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for beef medallions in a slow cooker can vary depending on the desired level of doneness and the size of the medallions. As a general guideline, cooking them on low heat for 4-6 hours should result in tender and flavorful meat. However, it’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches the desired level of doneness.
