Table of Contents
Beef Wellington is a classic British dish that combines tender beef with a flavorful mushroom duxelles and flaky pastry. Making it at home can seem challenging, but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to create a stunning and delicious Beef Wellington that impresses everyone.
Ingredients Needed
- 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) beef tenderloin (center-cut)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 200 g (7 oz) mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 shallots, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 slices of prosciutto
- 1 package of puff pastry (about 250 g)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 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 large 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, optional: brush with Dijon mustard for added flavor.
2. Make the Duxelles
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced shallots and garlic. Cook until fragrant. Add finely chopped mushrooms and cook until the mixture is dry and 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 on top 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 200°C (390°F). 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 pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.
5. Bake the Beef Wellington
Place the wrapped beef on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make a few small cuts on top for steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Beef Wellington carefully and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a rich red wine sauce. This dish is perfect for special occasions and impresses guests with its elegant presentation and delicious flavors.