Cooking Time Overview
| Step | Duration |
|---|---|
| Searing the beef | 5–6 minutes |
| Cooking mushroom duxelles | 10–12 minutes |
| Chilling (twice) | 50 minutes total |
| Baking | 35–40 minutes |
| Resting | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | ~1 hour 50 minutes |
Beef Wellington is a classic dish that combines a tender beef filet, savory mushroom duxelles, prosciutto, and flaky puff pastry. This guide includes ingredients, steps, and cooking times.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- For the Beef Wellington:
- 1 (1.5–2 lb) beef tenderloin, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 lb cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 10–12 slices prosciutto
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tbsp water (egg wash)
- Optional:
- Red wine reduction or beef gravy for serving.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
First, season the beef tenderloin generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Then, sear the beef on all sides until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Set it aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Mushroom Duxelles
Meanwhile, melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the mushrooms, shallots, garlic, and thyme. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is dry and fragrant, about 10 minutes. Allow it to cool completely.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Next, arrange the prosciutto slices in an overlapping layer. Spread the cooled mushroom duxelles evenly over the prosciutto.
Place the seared beef on top, and using the plastic wrap, tightly roll the prosciutto and mushroom mixture around the beef. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
Step 4: Wrap in Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets. Remove the beef from the plastic wrap and brush it with Dijon mustard. Then, place the beef in the center of the pastry and wrap it tightly, sealing the edges with the egg wash.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the wrapped beef seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the pastry with the remaining egg wash for a golden finish. Finally, bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the beef reaches your desired doneness (125°F for medium-rare).
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once baked, let the Beef Wellington rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve immediately for a flaky crust and juicy beef.
Tips for Success
- Flaky Beef Wellington: To achieve a perfect crust, chill the beef and pastry before baking.
- Traditional Beef Wellington: Stick to the classic recipe for a timeless dish.
- Elegant Beef Wellington: Add decorative patterns to the pastry for a refined presentation.
Slice into your Beef Wellington and reveal its golden layers and tender perfection! With its rich flavors and stunning presentation, this dish is sure to impress. Share your masterpiece with loved ones—it’s too good not to! Bon appétit!
Tips for Making the Best Beef Wellington
No matter which version of Beef Wellington you’re aiming to create, these tips will help you achieve perfection every time:
- Classic Beef Wellington: Stick to traditional techniques by mastering the balance between tender beef, savory mushroom duxelles, and flaky pastry.
- Perfect Beef Wellington: Focus on using high-quality ingredients and cooking the beef to the ideal temperature for flawless results.
- Savory Beef Wellington: Enhance the flavor with a touch of garlic or fresh herbs in the mushroom duxelles for a rich, savory taste.
- Gourmet Beef Wellington: Add a luxurious twist with foie gras or truffle oil to take your Wellington to the next level.
- Elegant Beef Wellington: Present your dish with a refined touch by decorating the pastry with intricate patterns or scoring.
- Traditional Beef Wellington: Celebrate the classic recipe by staying true to its origins with simple, authentic ingredients.
- Flaky Beef Wellington: Ensure your pastry is light and buttery by chilling it properly before baking for that perfect flaky crust.
- Ultimate Beef Wellington: Combine all these elements for the ultimate version, impressing your guests with every bite.
With these tips, your Beef Wellington will be the star of any meal. Whether you choose to go classic or gourmet, your dish will turn out unforgettable!