Description
A simplified version of the classic beef Wellington with rich flavors, flaky pastry, and a quicker method perfect for busy cooks seeking a delicious, elegant meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Beef
- 500 g beef tenderloin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Mushroom Duxelles
- 200 g mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
Pastry & Finishing
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Season and Sear Beef: Season the beef tenderloin generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to retain juices and cool to room temperature for wrapping.
- Brush with Mustard: Once the beef is slightly cooled, brush all surfaces with Dijon mustard to add tangy flavor and help the pastry adhere.
- Prepare Mushroom Duxelles: In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking until all moisture evaporates and mixture becomes paste-like, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Assemble Wellington: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Spread the cooled mushroom mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a border. Place the beef tenderloin in the center, then carefully wrap the pastry around the beef, sealing all edges tightly to encase the meat.
- Brush and Bake: Transfer the wrapped beef to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the entire pastry surface with beaten egg to ensure a golden, shiny crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the Wellington from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, yielding moist and tender slices.
Notes
- Use store-bought puff pastry to significantly reduce preparation time.
- Letting the beef rest after cooking is essential to keep the meat juicy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British