Classic Beef Wellington Recipe

Beef Wellington is a classic dish that exemplifies the art of French cooking while also holding a cherished place in British culinary tradition. This magnificent dish features a tender beef fillet coated with a rich layer of mushroom duxelles and often enhanced with crispy prosciutto or pâté, all encased in a golden, flaky puff pastry. Baking this splendid ensemble creates a beautiful presentation, with the crispiness of the pastry contrasting delightfully against the juicy, succulent beef inside. Serving Beef Wellington is always a showstopper for any occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. Each bite offers an explosion of flavors and textures that highlight the savory depth of the mushrooms balanced by the buttery, crisp pastry, making it a memorable meal that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 2 lb (900 g) beef tenderloin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 8 oz (225 g) cremini or white mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 6 oz (170 g) prosciutto, thinly sliced
• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Flour, for dusting
• Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef tenderloin generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Sear the beef for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned all over. Remove the beef from the skillet, transfer it to a plate, and allow it to cool slightly.
4. In the same skillet, add the mushrooms, and sauté them over medium heat for about 5-8 minutes until all moisture has evaporated, and they become a thick paste. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to cool.
5. Once cooled, spread the Dijon mustard over the cooled beef fillet.
6. Lay the prosciutto slices on a sheet of plastic wrap, slightly overlapping them to create a single layer. Spread the mushroom mixture evenly over the prosciutto.
7. Place the beef on top of the mushroom mixture and roll it tightly using the plastic wrap to form a log shape. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
8. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a large rectangle, large enough to envelop the beef completely.
9. Remove the beef from the plastic wrap and place it in the center of the pastry. Fold the pastry over the beef, trimming any excess as necessary, and ensure it is sealed tightly. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
10. Brush the entire surface of the pastry with the beaten egg to achieve a golden finish.
11. Place the wrapped Beef Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the internal temperature of the beef reaches your desired level (medium-rare: 130°F (54°C)).
13. Remove the Beef Wellington from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
14. Serve the Beef Wellington with your choice of sides, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.

Servings

This Beef Wellington recipe serves approximately 6-8 people, making it perfect for large gatherings or special occasions.

Nutritional Information

Tools Needed

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Cling film
• Frying pan
• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush
• Oven
• Meat thermometer

Tips for Preparing the Recipe

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for a good cut of beef such as tenderloin or filet mignon for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Keep Ingredients Cold: Use cold butter and keep your pastry chilled to ensure a flaky and tender texture.
• Sear the Beef: Searing the beef before wrapping it in pastry helps lock in flavor and moisture.
• Rest the Meat: Allow the beef to rest after cooking to retain juices and enhance the flavor before slicing.
• Don’t Overstuff: Be cautious not to fill the pastry with too much mushroom duxelles or pâté; too much moisture can make the pastry soggy.
• Brush with Egg Wash: Applying an egg wash before baking gives the pastry a beautifully golden and glossy finish.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature to ensure that the beef is cooked to your preference.
• Serve Immediately: Beef Wellington is best served right after it comes out of the oven to maintain the texture of the pastry.

Skill Level

Intermediate

Recipe Course and Cuisine

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: British

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

When serving Beef Wellington, slice the pastry into thick rounds to showcase the beautifully cooked beef and the rich mushroom filling. Plate the slices on a warm plate to maintain temperature. You can drizzle a red wine reduction or a savory sauce around the edges of the plate for added flavor and elegance. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or chives for a pop of color. Pair with seasonal vegetables, like roasted asparagus or honey-glazed carrots, and serve with mashed potatoes or a creamy parsnip purée for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage Conditions

Beef Wellington is best enjoyed fresh; however, any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator. Wrap the slices tightly in cling film or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and store in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for 1-2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze unbaked Beef Wellington. Make sure to wrap it securely in multiple layers of cling film and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the freezer and let it defrost in the refrigerator for several hours before baking.

Health Benefits

Beef Wellington can be a delicious way to enjoy lean beef, which is an excellent source of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals such as iron and zinc. The mushrooms in the duxelles provide a good source of antioxidants, and when using herbs and spices, you enhance the dish’s nutritional profile with additional health benefits. The use of pastry contributes carbohydrates, which are important for energy, but it’s crucial to balance this with veggies for a well-rounded meal.

Recommendations for Vegans

Beef Wellington traditionally contains animal products, but vegans can create a plant-based version. Substituting the beef with a hearty mushroom steak or a mix of nut-based pâtés, lentils, or other vegetables can mimic the texture and flavor profile. Use vegan puff pastry and ensure all other ingredients employed in the filling are plant-based.

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• Mushroom Wellington
• Chicken Wellington
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