The holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing heartwarming stories, and indulging in delectable feasts. This Christmas, elevate your dinner table with a culinary masterpiece that marries the elegance of French cuisine with the hearty comfort of traditional British fare: Beef Wellington with Truffle-Parmesan Crust.
Ingredients:
For the Beef:
Image Source:
Preparation Process:
Total Time: 3-4 hours
1. Prepare the Beef: Season the tenderloin with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned. Set aside to cool.
2. Make the Duxelles: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté shallot until softened. Add mushrooms and garlic, cook until moisture evaporates. Deglaze with Cognac, then add thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until dry, then transfer to a bowl and let cool.
3. Prepare the Pate a Choux: Bring water and butter to a boil in a saucepan. Remove from heat and quickly stir in flour. Return to low heat and stir until a smooth dough forms. Transfer to a mixer and beat in eggs one at a time. Pipe the dough into a piping bag and pipe onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Assemble the Wellington: Lay out a sheet of puff pastry. Spread a layer of duxelles on top, followed by the cooled beef tenderloin. Top with a layer of pate a choux. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with beaten egg. Fold the pastry over the beef, sealing the edges tightly. Crimp the edges to form a neat package. Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and truffle.
5. Bake the Wellington: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the internal temperature of the beef reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Rest and Serve: Let the Wellington rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite holiday sides, such as roasted potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a creamy mushroom sauce.
This Beef Wellington is a symphony of flavors and textures, inspired by the rich culinary traditions of France and Britain. The tender, juicy beef is perfectly complemented by the savory duxelles, the buttery pate a choux, and the decadent truffle-Parmesan crust. As you savor each bite, you’ll experience a culinary journey that celebrates the joy of the holiday season.
