Recipe: Mini Beef Wellingtons

Introduction

Mini Beef Wellingtons are a delightful and elegant appetizer that will impress your guests at any dinner party or special occasion. This classic dish features tender beef fillets wrapped in a flaky puff pastry, accompanied by a savory mushroom duxelles. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create these bite-sized gourmet treats.

Ingredients

For the Beef Wellington:

• 8 beef fillet medallions (approximately 1 inch thick)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 package (17.3 ounces) puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Mushroom Duxelles:

• 8 ounces mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 shallots, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Mushroom Duxelles

1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the shallots and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
4. Stir in the thyme leaves and season with salt and pepper.
5. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Preparing the Beef Fillets

1. Season the beef fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a hot skillet, heat the olive oil over high heat.
3. Sear the fillets for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned.
4. Remove from heat and let them cool.

Step 3: Assembling the Mini Beef Wellingtons

1. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle.
2. Divide the mushroom duxelles into 8 equal portions.
3. Place a portion of the duxelles in the center of each puff pastry square.
4. Top with a seared beef fillet.
5. Fold the pastry over the beef, sealing the edges with egg wash.
6. Place the wrapped beef Wellingtons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam side down.

Step 4: Baking and Serving

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush the tops of the Wellingtons with egg wash.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
5. Serve the Mini Beef Wellingtons hot, garnished with fresh thyme sprigs if desired.

Conclusion

Mini Beef Wellingtons are a delectable appetizer that combines tender beef, flavorful mushrooms, and flaky puff pastry. This elegant dish will surely impress your guests and make any occasion feel special. Follow this recipe to create these bite-sized gourmet treats and elevate your culinary skills to new heights. Enjoy!