Introduction
Beef Wellington is a classic British dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It’s a dish that is perfect for special occasions and is sure to impress your guests. This dish is made with beef tenderloin that is wrapped in puff pastry with mushrooms, onions, and other seasonings. The result is a delicious and elegant dish that is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 600g beef tenderloin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 200g mushrooms
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 sheets puff pastry
- 1 egg
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 200°C.
-
Season the beef tenderloin with salt and black pepper.
-
Heat olive oil and butter in a pan over high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned. Set aside to cool.
-
In the same pan, add chopped onion and garlic, and cook until soft. Add chopped mushrooms and cook until tender. Set aside to cool.
-
Roll out the puff pastry sheets and spread Dijon mustard over them.
-
Place the mushroom mixture on top of the puff pastry sheets.
-
Place the beef on top of the mushroom mixture.
-
Wrap the puff pastry around the beef, tucking in the ends.
-
Beat an egg and brush it over the puff pastry.
-
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown.
-
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Vegetarian/Vegan Version
For a vegetarian version of this dish, substitute the beef tenderloin with a meat alternative, such as tofu or seitan. For a vegan version, use vegan puff pastry and omit the egg wash.
Variations
- Add a layer of prosciutto or ham on top of the beef before wrapping it in the puff pastry.
- Use different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for a more complex flavor.
- Add some herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the mushroom mixture for an extra kick of flavor.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Conclusion
Beef Wellington is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for special occasions. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make a perfect Beef Wellington that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe simple and straightforward. So why not try it out and see for yourself how delicious this classic dish can be?
FAQ
What is Beef Wellington?
Beef Wellington is a classic English dish made with beef tenderloin coated in mushroom duxelles, wrapped in a layer of prosciutto, and then encased in puff pastry.
What cut of beef is best for Beef Wellington?
Tenderloin is the best cut of beef for Beef Wellington. It is the most tender and lean cut of beef, which makes it perfect for this dish.
How do I make the mushroom duxelles?
To make the mushroom duxelles, finely chop mushrooms and cook them with shallots, garlic, and herbs until they are tender and most of the moisture has evaporated. The mixture is then pureed into a paste.
Can I make Beef Wellington in advance?
Yes, you can make Beef Wellington in advance. Prepare the dish up to the point of wrapping it in puff pastry, then cover it tightly and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.
How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
To prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy, make sure that the mushroom duxelles is well drained and cooled before spreading it over the beef. Also, place the beef on a layer of thinly sliced prosciutto, which will help to absorb any excess moisture.
How long should I bake Beef Wellington?
Bake Beef Wellington in a preheated 425°F oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the beef reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
Can I use a different type of pastry instead of puff pastry?
Yes, you can use a different type of pastry, but puff pastry is the traditional choice for Beef Wellington. The pastry should be able to hold its shape and not become soggy during cooking.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef tenderloin?
Yes, you can use a different type of meat, but it will not be traditional Beef Wellington. The dish is traditionally made with beef tenderloin, but you could try using pork tenderloin or venison if you prefer.
What is the best way to serve Beef Wellington?
Beef Wellington is best served hot and fresh out of the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thick pieces and serving it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
How do I store leftovers of Beef Wellington?
Leftovers of Beef Wellington can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the leftovers in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
