Reinsdyrfilet - Traditional Norwegian Reindeer Fillet with Lingonberry Sauce
Reinsdyrfilet is a traditional Norwegian dish that is often served during the holiday season. It is made with tender and lean reindeer fillet, which is seared and then roasted to perfection.
The dish is typically served with a sweet and tangy lingonberry sauce, which complements the richness of the meat. Reinsdyrfilet is a flavorful and festive meal that has been enjoyed in Norway for generations, and it continues to be a popular dish to this day.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of reindeer fillet
- 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup of beef or game broth
- 1/4 cup of lingonberry preserves or jam
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Step 2: Sear the reindeer fillet
Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the vegetable oil to the skillet and swirl to coat the bottom. Add the reindeer fillet to the skillet and sear it on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side, until it is browned all over. Remove the fillet from the skillet and transfer it to a roasting pan.
Step 3: Roast the fillet
Place the roasting pan with the reindeer fillet in the preheated oven and roast for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet and desired level of doneness. The internal temperature of the fillet should reach 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium. Remove the fillet from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Make the lingonberry sauce
While the fillet is roasting, make the lingonberry sauce. In a small saucepan, heat the butter over medium-high heat until melted. Add the beef or game broth and lingonberry preserves or jam to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, until it is slightly thickened. Stir in the heavy cream and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Once the fillet has rested, slice it into thick pieces and arrange them on a platter. Drizzle the lingonberry sauce over the top of the fillet or serve it on the side. Garnish the dish with fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, if desired. Serve with roasted vegetables or potatoes on the side. Enjoy!
Tips:
- If you cannot find lingonberry preserves or jam, you can use cranberry sauce as a substitute.
- Reindeer fillet can be hard to find outside of Norway, so you can use beef tenderloin or venison as a substitute.
- Make sure to let the fil let rest before slicing it, as this allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy fillet.
- You can marinate the fillet in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking to add extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make reinsdyrfilet in a slow cooker?
No, it is not recommended to make reinsdyrfilet in a slow cooker as the meat is delicate and can become tough and overcooked. It is best to sear the fillet in a skillet and then roast it in the oven to ensure that it is cooked to the correct temperature and remains tender.
Is reinsdyrfilet a healthy dish?
Reinsdyrfilet is a lean and nutritious dish that is high in protein and low in fat. Reindeer meat is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, and it has a lower fat content than beef or pork. The lingonberry sauce is also a good source of antioxidants and vitamin C. However, keep in mind that the dish can be high in sodium if the broth used is salted. To make it healthier, you can use low-sodium broth or make your own broth at home.
What can I serve with reinsdyrfilet besides roasted vegetables or potatoes?
Reinsdyrfilet can be served with a variety of side dishes, like wild rice, quinoa, or a mixed greens salad. You can also serve it with a traditional Norwegian side dish like kålrabistappe (mashed rutabaga) or tyttebærsyltetøy (lingonberry jam).
Can I freeze leftover reinsdyrfilet?
Yes, you can freeze leftover reinsdyrfilet for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the fillet tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw the fillet in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it on the stovetop or in the oven.
Conclusion:
Reinsdyrfilet is a delicious and festive dish that is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal. The tender and lean fillet is complemented by the sweet and tangy lingonberry sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors. While it may be hard to find reindeer fillet outside of Norway, you can use beef tenderloin or venison as a substitute to recreate this traditional Norwegian dish. Serve it with roasted vegetables or potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!
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