Beef Wellington Recipe – An Elegant Classic
Beef Wellington Recipe – An Elegant Classic
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Introduction
Beef Wellington is a luxurious dish that combines succulent beef tenderloin with a savory mushroom duxelles and crispy puff pastry. This classic recipe is perfect for special occasions or holiday meals, offering a blend of rich flavors and impressive presentation. Although it may seem complex, the result is a stunning and delicious centerpiece that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 2 lbs beef tenderloin, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mushroom Duxelles:
- 1 lb cremini or button mushrooms, cleaned and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 8 oz prosciutto slices (about 12 slices)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (about 17.3 oz)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Season the 2 lbs beef tenderloin with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
Step 3: Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This will create a flavorful crust and help lock in the juices.
Step 4: Remove the beef from the skillet and let it cool. Brush with 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard while it is still warm.
2. Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles
Step 1: In the same skillet used for the beef, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
Step 2: Add 1 small finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute.
Step 3: Add 1 lb finely chopped mushrooms to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become dry, about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Pour in 1/4 cup dry white wine and cook until the liquid has evaporated. Stir in 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture cool.
3. Assemble the Wellington
Step 1: Lay out 8 oz prosciutto slices on a sheet of plastic wrap, slightly overlapping. Spread the cooled mushroom duxelles evenly over the prosciutto.
Step 2: Place the beef tenderloin on top of the mushroom mixture and roll it up tightly using the plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to help the shape hold.
Step 3: On a lightly floured surface, roll out 1 sheet of puff pastry to a size large enough to completely wrap the beef.
Step 4: Remove the beef from the plastic wrap and place it in the center of the puff pastry. Fold the pastry around the beef, sealing the edges with a little beaten egg. Place the wrapped beef seam-side down on a baking sheet.
Step 5: Brush the puff pastry with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish.
4. Cook the Wellington
Step 1: Bake the Beef Wellington in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the internal temperature of the beef reaches 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare. Adjust time for desired doneness.
Step 2: Let the Beef Wellington rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Step 3: Serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips
- Beef Temperature: For best results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beef. Aim for 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare. The temperature will rise slightly while resting.
- Mushroom Duxelles: Ensure the mushroom mixture is well-cooked and dry before spreading on the prosciutto to avoid soggy pastry.
- Puff Pastry: Thaw the puff pastry in the refrigerator for a few hours before use. It should be cold but pliable for easy wrapping.
- Resting: Allow the Beef Wellington to rest after baking to let the juices redistribute and make slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Sauces: Complement with a rich red wine reduction sauce or a simple gravy.
- Wine Pairing: Pair with a robust red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to enhance the rich flavors of the dish.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 700
- Protein: 40 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fat: 40 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
Conclusion
Beef Wellington is a show-stopping dish that combines tender beef with a flavorful mushroom duxelles and crispy puff pastry. Perfect for special occasions or holiday dinners, this classic recipe offers an elegant and delicious dining experience. With its rich flavors and impressive presentation, Beef Wellington is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the luxurious taste and sophisticated presentation of this timeless dish!
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This detailed recipe for Beef Wellington includes comprehensive instructions, cooking tips, and serving suggestions to help you create a memorable and delicious meal.
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