Beef Wellington with Mushroom Duxelles
Highlighted under: World Table
Experience the rich flavors of Beef Wellington with a savory mushroom duxelles filling, wrapped in golden puff pastry. A show-stopping dish perfect for special occasions.
This Beef Wellington with Mushroom Duxelles is a classic dish that combines the tenderness of beef with the earthy flavors of mushrooms. A favorite for holiday gatherings and special dinners, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A beautiful presentation that impresses at any dinner party
- Savory mushroom duxelles adds a depth of flavor to the beef
- Golden, flaky puff pastry that's irresistible
- Perfect for celebrating special occasions with family and friends
The Art of Beef Wellington
Beef Wellington is not just a meal; it’s an experience that showcases culinary artistry. The dish features a tender beef tenderloin enveloped in a rich layer of mushroom duxelles, all wrapped in a flaky puff pastry. This combination creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that is sure to impress your guests. Mastering the technique of Beef Wellington can elevate your cooking skills and give you the confidence to tackle other gourmet dishes.
While the ingredients may seem simple, the preparation requires precision and attention to detail. The key to a successful Beef Wellington lies in ensuring that each component is cooked to perfection. From the sautéed mushroom duxelles that add depth and earthiness, to the perfectly seared beef that melts in your mouth, every step plays a crucial role in achieving that iconic taste and presentation.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to making Beef Wellington, quality ingredients are paramount. Opt for a high-grade beef tenderloin; this cut is renowned for its tenderness and flavor. Additionally, fresh mushrooms will enhance the umami notes of the duxelles, adding a robust earthiness to the dish. Don’t overlook the importance of fresh herbs, like thyme, which can elevate the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prosciutto not only adds a savory note but also helps to keep the beef moist during the cooking process. The puff pastry should be of high quality, as it needs to hold up during baking while remaining flaky and golden. Investing in the best ingredients will yield a Beef Wellington that is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.
Tips for Perfecting Your Wellington
To achieve a perfectly cooked Beef Wellington, it is essential to let the beef rest after searing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice is juicy and flavorful. Additionally, chilling the assembled Wellington in the refrigerator for a short while before baking helps maintain its shape and ensures a crisp pastry.
Baking times can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the beef. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should read 125°F (51°C) for medium-rare. Finally, allow the Wellington to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This will make slicing easier and ensure that the juices stay intact.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Beef Wellington
- 1.5 lbs beef tenderloin
- 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 shallot, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 slices prosciutto
- 1 package puff pastry (2 sheets)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Duxelles
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to prepare all ingredients before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic, sauté until translucent. Stir in the chopped mushrooms and thyme, cooking until the mixture is dry. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside to cool.
Sear the Beef
Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, heat olive oil over high heat and sear the beef on all sides until browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
Assemble the Wellington
On a sheet of plastic wrap, lay out the prosciutto slices, slightly overlapping. Spread the mushroom duxelles over the prosciutto, then place the cooled beef on top. Roll tightly using the plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Wrap in Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Remove 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 the Wellington
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the wrapped beef on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let rest before slicing.
Serve the Beef Wellington sliced with your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions
Beef Wellington is a show-stopper that deserves to be served with equally impressive sides. Consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or a rich red wine reduction sauce to complement the flavors. Roasted seasonal vegetables can add a touch of color and freshness to the plate, balancing the richness of the dish.
For a more festive touch, serve Beef Wellington with a side of horseradish cream or a tangy mustard sauce. These condiments can enhance the flavors and provide a delightful contrast to the savory beef and mushrooms.
Storing and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Beef Wellington properly is essential to maintain its texture and flavor. Wrap any uneaten portions tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within two days to enjoy its optimal taste and quality.
To reheat, place the Wellington in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This will help retain its flaky crust while warming the filling. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to a soggy pastry.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make Beef Wellington ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mushroom duxelles and wrap the beef in pastry a day in advance. Just bake it the day you plan to serve.
→ What can I serve with Beef Wellington?
It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
→ Can I use a different meat?
Yes, you can substitute beef with pork tenderloin or chicken if preferred.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Beef Wellington with Mushroom Duxelles
Experience the rich flavors of Beef Wellington with a savory mushroom duxelles filling, wrapped in golden puff pastry. A show-stopping dish perfect for special occasions.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: World Table
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: Serves 4
What You'll Need
For the Beef Wellington
- 1.5 lbs beef tenderloin
- 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 shallot, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 slices prosciutto
- 1 package puff pastry (2 sheets)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Duxelles
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic, sauté until translucent. Stir in the chopped mushrooms and thyme, cooking until the mixture is dry. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside to cool.
Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, heat olive oil over high heat and sear the beef on all sides until browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
On a sheet of plastic wrap, lay out the prosciutto slices, slightly overlapping. Spread the mushroom duxelles over the prosciutto, then place the cooled beef on top. Roll tightly using the plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Remove 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.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the wrapped beef on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let rest before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 700 kcal
- Total Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 35g