How to Make Perfect Beef Wellington

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to make a perfect Beef Wellington, a classic dish known for its tender beef and flaky pastry. With a bit of patience and effort, you can create a stunning meal that impresses at any dinner party. We'll break down the process step-by-step, covering everything from the ingredients you'll need to the final assembly and baking.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather and measure all necessary ingredients to streamline the cooking process.

• Beef Tenderloin: 1.5 pounds (650g), ideally thick center cut.
• Oil: 2 tablespoons (24ml) high heat oil like canola.
• Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste.
• Dijon Mustard: For brushing.
• Puff Pastry: 1.5 sheets (or just one if skipping the lattice).
• Prosciutto: 6-8 slices.

For the Duxelles:

• Mushrooms: 1 pound (468g), can be a mix or all cremini.
• Shallots: 2, finely chopped.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (24ml).
• Whiskey: 3 tablespoons (44ml), optional.
• Thyme: Leaves from 2 sprigs, optional.
• Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste.

For the Crepe:

• Flour: 3.5 tablespoons (51g) all-purpose.
• Milk: 140ml whole milk.
• Egg: 1, beaten.
• Seasoning: Salt to taste.

For the Egg Wash:

• Egg Yolks: 2.
• Water: 1 tablespoon (14ml).

Step 2: Make the Duxelles

Prepare the mushroom mixture that will add flavor to your Beef Wellington.

1. Mushroom Preparation:

   • Finely chop the mushrooms, shallots, and garlic.

2. Cooking:

   • In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the shallots and garlic, sauté until translucent.
   • Add the chopped mushrooms and cook until all moisture has evaporated, about 10 minutes.
   • Stir in whiskey and thyme (if using) and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
   • Season with salt and pepper, then set aside to cool.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Enhance the flavor of the beef tenderloin.

1. Preheat Pan: Heat the high heat oil in a large skillet over high heat.
2. Season the Beef: Generously season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Sear:
   • Once the oil is hot, add the beef and sear on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side).
   • Remove from heat and brush all sides with Dijon mustard. Allow to cool.

Step 4: Prepare the Crepe

Create a barrier to prevent the pastry from getting soggy.

1. Mix the Ingredients:

   • In a bowl, whisk together flour, milk, egg, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

2. Cook the Crepe:

   • Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease.
   • Pour a small amount of batter into the skillet and swirl to coat the bottom evenly.
   • Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges lift, then flip and cook for another minute. Remove and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Beef Wellington

Combine all components into a beautiful package.

1. Layer the Prosciutto:

   • Lay out the prosciutto slices on a sheet of plastic wrap, slightly overlapping them.

2. Spread the Duxelles:

   • Evenly spread the mushroom duxelles over the prosciutto.

3. Add the Beef:

   • Place the beef in the center and roll tightly using the plastic wrap. Chill for at least 15 minutes.

4. Wrap in Crepe:

   • Remove the beef from the wrap, place it in the center of the crepe, and fold the crepe around it.

5. Prepare the Puff Pastry:

   • Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Unwrap the crepe-wrapped beef and place it in the center of the pastry.
   • Fold the pastry over the beef, sealing the edges well.

6. Lattice Top (Optional):

   • If using, cut the remaining pastry into strips, and create a lattice pattern on top of the wrapped beef.

Step 6: Bake

Finish your Beef Wellington to perfection.

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top of the pastry with the egg wash (2 egg yolks mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
3. Bake: Place the Wellington on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.

Conclusion

You've successfully made a Beef Wellington! Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to let the juices redistribute. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy your culinary achievement. For future cooking adventures, consider exploring variations by adding different spices or vegetables to the duxelles. Happy cooking!