This Classic Beef Wellington is a show-stopping dish that features a succulent beef tenderloin wrapped in a flaky pastry. It’s perfect for special occasions and is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and elegant presentation.
In this Beef Wellington Recipe, you’ll learn how to make the perfect Beef Wellington, including tips for preparing the beef fillet and the delicious mushroom duxelles. Whether you’re looking for an Easy Beef Wellington or want to try Mini Beef Wellington bites, this guide covers it all.
Overview of Classic Beef Wellington
Classic Beef Wellington is a culinary masterpiece that brings together the rich flavors of beef tenderloin and mushroom duxelles, all enveloped in a flaky pastry. This dish is a favorite for special occasions, showcasing not only taste but also an impressive presentation that is sure to captivate your guests.
The Beef Wellington Recipe is versatile, allowing for variations such as Easy Beef Wellington or even Mini Beef Wellington bites for those looking for a more casual approach. Whether you’re following Gordon Ramsay recipes or exploring other Beef Wellington recipes, this dish stands out as a true classic.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key to a successful Beef Wellington lies in the quality of its ingredients. A perfectly trimmed beef fillet is essential, as it serves as the centerpiece of the dish. The mushroom duxelles adds a savory depth, while prosciutto provides a delightful layer of flavor.
Puff pastry is the final touch, creating a golden, flaky exterior that encases the tender beef. Using fresh thyme as a garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fragrant note that complements the dish beautifully.
Preparation Steps for Perfection
Preparing Classic Beef Wellington requires attention to detail, starting with the searing of the beef tenderloin. This step locks in the juices and creates a rich crust that enhances the overall flavor.
Next, the mushroom duxelles must be cooked until golden brown, ensuring that excess moisture evaporates. This prevents the pastry from becoming soggy, allowing for that perfect crispiness when baked.
Assembling the Wellington
Once the beef and mushroom mixture are ready, the assembly process begins. Laying out the prosciutto and spreading the duxelles over it creates a flavorful base for the beef. Carefully wrapping the beef ensures that all the flavors are sealed within the pastry.
Rolling the pastry around the beef is a crucial step, and sealing the edges properly will keep the filling intact during baking. Brushing the pastry with egg wash gives it that beautiful golden color once baked.
Baking to Golden Perfection
Preheating the oven is vital for achieving the desired texture of the Beef Wellington pastry. Baking at the right temperature allows the pastry to puff up and turn golden brown, while the beef cooks to a perfect medium-rare.
After baking, letting the Wellington rest for a few minutes is essential. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is as juicy and flavorful as possible.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
When it comes to serving Classic Beef Wellington, presentation is key. Slicing the Wellington reveals the beautiful layers of beef and mushroom, making it a stunning centerpiece for any table.
Pairing it with seasonal vegetables and a rich red wine sauce elevates the dining experience. The combination of flavors and textures creates a memorable meal that is perfect for celebrations or intimate gatherings.
Delicious Beef Wellington Recipe
This Beef Wellington features a tender beef fillet coated in a savory mushroom mixture, all enveloped in a golden pastry. The recipe takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people. Perfect for any celebration, this dish can also be adapted into Ground Beef Wellington for a more casual twist.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef tenderloin, trimmed
- 1 pound mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 8 slices prosciutto
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for searing
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat and sear the beef on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove from heat and let cool. Brush with Dijon mustard.
- Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped mushrooms and cook until moisture evaporates and they become golden brown. Season with salt and pepper. Let cool.
- Wrap the Beef: Lay out the prosciutto slices on a sheet of plastic wrap, slightly overlapping. Spread the mushroom duxelles over the prosciutto, then place the beef on top. Roll tightly using the plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Assemble the Wellington: 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 with beaten egg.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the wrapped beef on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Slice the Beef Wellington and garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired. Serve with your choice of sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 550kcal
- Fat: 35g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 30g