Masterpiece in Pastry: The Ultimate Classic Beef Wellington Recipe

Discover the art of crafting a Classic Beef Wellington with tender beef, mushroom duxelles, prosciutto, and puff pastry. Perfect this elegant dish in your own kitchen!
Masterpiece in Pastry: The Ultimate Classic Beef Wellington Recipe

Introduction:

Beef Wellington is the epitome of culinary elegance and sophistication. A quintessential dish for festive gatherings or a luxurious dinner party, its allure lies in the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The tender beef fillet encased in a golden, flaky puff pastry shell not only looks impressive but tastes undeniably divine. To achieve this gastronomic masterpiece, careful attention to detail is essential. But fret not, as this detailed guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to prepare the ultimate classic Beef Wellington.

Ingredients:

For the Beef:

• 1.5 – 2 lbs (700 – 900 g) beef tenderloin, center-cut
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons English mustard

For the Mushroom Duxelles:

• 1 lb (450 g) mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons dry sherry or Madeira wine

For Assembly:

• 8 – 12 slices prosciutto or Parma ham
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 sheet of puff pastry (about 10 x 15 inches in size)
• 1 egg, beaten, for egg wash

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef tenderloin generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once almost smoking, sear the beef on all sides until it is a uniform, deep brown. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the beef from the skillet and brush it with English mustard while it is still warm. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles

1. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons each of butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the shallots and garlic, sauté until translucent and fragrant.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the finely chopped mushrooms and thyme leaves. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and then continue to cook until all liquid evaporates and the mushrooms turn dark brown.
4. Stir in the dry sherry or Madeira wine and cook until it evaporates completely.
5. Season with salt and pepper, remove the mixture from heat, and allow it to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Beef Wellington

1. Lay a large piece of cling film on a flat surface. Lay the prosciutto slices on the cling film, overlapping them slightly to form a rectangle big enough to wrap around the beef.
2. Spread the cooled mushroom duxelles evenly over the prosciutto layer.
3. Place the cooled beef tenderloin on the edge of the prosciutto and carefully roll it up using the cling film, drawing the prosciutto tightly around the beef.
4. Wrap the entire roll in the cling film and refrigerate it for about 15 – 20 minutes to set the shape.
5. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Remove the cling film from the beef roll and place it in the center of the pastry. Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg.
6. Fold the pastry around the beef, ensuring it is tightly sealed. Trim any excess pastry and use it for decoration, if desired.
7. Place the wrapped beef seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the exterior with more beaten egg.
8. Score the surface with a sharp knife in a decorative pattern.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

1. Bake the Wellington in the preheated oven for 25 – 30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crispy.
2. Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 – 15 minutes before slicing.
3. Cut into thick slices and serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion:

Crafting a classic Beef Wellington is an art form, and with this detailed recipe, you're well on your way to mastering it. The combination of tender beef, earthy mushroom duxelles, and buttery puff pastry creates a dish that is truly memorable. Whether you are impressing your guests or treating yourself and loved ones, this luxurious dish promises to elevate any dining experience. Enjoy your creation, and bask in the compliments that are sure to follow!