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Beef Wellington is a luxurious dish that impresses guests and elevates any special occasion. Making it at home can seem daunting, but with a clear step-by-step process, you can master this classic recipe in your own kitchen. Follow this guide to create a delicious Beef Wellington from scratch.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1.5 to 2 pounds beef tenderloin (center-cut)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 ounces mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 4 slices prosciutto
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: Dijon mustard for coating
Preparation Steps
1. Prepare the Beef
Season the beef tenderloin generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let it cool. Once cooled, you can brush it with Dijon mustard if desired.
2. Make the Mushroom Duxelles
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced shallot and garlic; cook until fragrant. Add chopped mushrooms and cook until the moisture evaporates and the mixture becomes paste-like. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cool.
3. Assemble the Wellington
Lay out plastic wrap and arrange prosciutto slices on it, slightly overlapping. Spread the mushroom duxelles over the prosciutto. Place the cooled beef in the center and carefully roll it up tightly using the plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
4. Wrap in Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Unwrap the beef from the plastic wrap and place it in the center of the pastry. Fold the pastry over the beef, sealing the edges. Brush the surface with beaten egg for a golden finish.
5. Bake the Beef Wellington
Place the wrapped beef on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving and Tips
Slice the Beef Wellington carefully with a sharp knife. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a light salad. For best results, use high-quality ingredients and ensure the beef is evenly cooked. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect!