Introduction
Beef Wellington is a classic dish that brings a touch of elegance and indulgence to any meal. Jamie Oliver’s recipe for Beef Wellington for two delivers on flavor and presentation, making it perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. This dish combines tender beef fillet, rich mushroom duxelles, and flaky pastry, offering a delightful experience for both the eyes and the palate.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Beef fillet, around 400g
– Puff pastry, 320g
– Chestnut mushrooms, 200g
– Parma ham or prosciutto, 100g
– Fresh thyme, a few sprigs
– Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon
– Egg (for egg wash), 1
– Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for frying
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Serves 2
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Beef
Take a piece of beef fillet and season it well with salt and black pepper. Heat a skillet over high heat, add olive oil, and sear the beef on all sides until browned. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the fillet from heat and let it cool.
Make the Mushroom Duxelles
In the same skillet, add finely chopped mushrooms, garlic, and a little more oil if needed. Cook on medium heat until the moisture from the mushrooms has evaporated and the mixture is dry. Season the mixture with salt and fresh herbs, and let it cool.
Prepare the Puff Pastry
On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle. Make sure it is large enough to wrap around the beef and mushroom mixture. You want it to be about 3-4mm thick.
Assemble the Wellington
Spread the cooled mushroom mixture evenly over the pastry. Place the cooled beef fillet in the center and drizzle with a little mustard if desired. Carefully wrap the pastry around the beef, sealing the edges well. Score the top of the pastry for decoration and to allow steam to escape.
Chill Before Baking
Wrap the assembled Wellington in cling film and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps to firm it up and keep its shape while baking.
Bake the Wellington
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Remove the cling film from the Wellington and place it on a baking tray. Brush the pastry with egg wash for a golden finish and bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
Rest and Serve
Once baked, allow the Wellington to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps to keep the beef juicy. Serve with your choice of sides.
Notes
Beef Quality
Using high-quality beef fillet enhances the flavor and tenderness of the dish, making a significant difference.
Mushroom Mixture
Ensure the mushroom mixture is well cooked to remove moisture, which can make the pastry soggy.
Puff Pastry Tips
Store-bought puff pastry works well in this recipe; make sure to keep it chilled until ready to use.
Optional Additions
Feel free to add herbs or other seasoning to the mushroom mixture for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Beef
Ensure the beef fillet is at room temperature before cooking for even results. Sear it in a hot pan to develop a rich, golden crust.
Wrapping in Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry carefully, making sure it’s large enough to encase the beef. This ensures a lovely, flaky exterior.
Creating a Mushroom Duxelles
Finely chop mushrooms and cook them down with shallots and thyme until all moisture has evaporated. This intensifies the flavor without sogging the pastry.
Assembling the Wellington
Layer the mushroom mixture over the beef, then wrap it tightly in the pastry. Use egg wash on the pastry for a beautiful golden finish.
Baking for Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven until the pastry is puffed and golden, and the meat is cooked to your desired doneness.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for Wellington?
Yes, although beef is traditional, you can use pork, lamb, or even plant-based substitutes to make a Wellington.
How do I ensure my pastry is crispy?
Make sure the pastry is cold when you put it in the oven, and avoid adding too much moisture in the filling.
What can I serve with Beef Wellington?
Beef Wellington pairs well with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Can I make Beef Wellington ahead of time?
You can prepare it in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge. Bake it just before serving for the best texture.
How do I know when the Beef Wellington is done?
Use a meat thermometer; for medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 50-52°C (120-125°F).
Conclusion
Indulging in a homemade Beef Wellington is a delightful experience that combines rich flavors and elegant presentation. This dish not only impresses guests but also allows you to showcase your culinary skills in a manageable way for two. With the perfect balance of tender beef, mushroom duxelles, and flaky pastry, it brings a touch of luxury to any dinner table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Beef Stroganoff
Pair tender strips of beef with a creamy mushroom sauce for a comforting classic that complements the flavors of Beef Wellington.
Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Serve crispy garlic roasted potatoes on the side to enhance the meal with a flavorful starch that pairs well with the richness of the Wellington.
Seasonal Vegetable Medley
Incorporate a colorful medley of seasonal vegetables to offer freshness and balance the richness of the dish.
Red Wine Reduction Sauce
Drizzle a rich red wine reduction over the Beef Wellington for an added depth of flavor and elegance.
Chocolate Fondant for Dessert
End the meal on a sweet note with a decadent chocolate fondant, perfect for those who love chocolate and want to impress their dinner guests.