Classic Beef Wellington
Put the mushrooms into a food processor with some seasoning and pulse to a rough paste. Scrape the paste into a pan and cook over a high heat for about 10 mins, tossing frequently, to cook out the moisture from the mushrooms. Spread out on a plate to cool. Heat in a frying pan and add a little olive oil. Season the beef and sear in the hot pan for 30 secs only on each side. (You don't want to cook it at this stage, just colour it). Remove the beef from the pan and leave to cool, then brush all over with the mustard. Lay a sheet of cling film on a work surface and arrange the Parma ham slices on it, in slightly overlapping rows. With a palette knife, spread the mushroom paste over the ham, then place the seared beef fillet in the middle. Keeping a tight hold of the cling film from the edge, neatly roll the Parma ham and mushrooms around the beef to form a tight barrel shape. Twist the ends of the cling film to secure. Chill for 15-20 mins to allow the beef to set and keep its shape. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a large rectangle, the thickness of a £1 coin. Remove the cling film from the beef, then lay in the centre. Brush the surrounding pastry with egg yolk. Fold the ends over, the wrap the pastry around the beef, cutting off any excess. Turn over, so the seam is underneath, and place on a baking sheet. Brush over all the pastry with egg and chill for about 15 mins to let the pastry rest. Heat the oven to 200C, 400F, gas 6. Lightly score the pastry at 1cm intervals and glaze again with beaten egg yolk. Bake for 20 minutes, then lower the oven setting to 180C, 350F, gas 4 and cook for another 15 mins. Allow to rest for 10-15 mins before slicing and serving with the side dishes of your choice. The beef should still be pink in the centre when you serve it.
Note from the author
Recipe video
Instructions
- 1.Process mushrooms into a rough paste and cook out moisture.,2.
- 2.Sear beef fillet and brush with mustard.,3.
- 3.Assemble beef, mushroom paste, and Parma ham, then chill.,4.
- 4.Roll out puff pastry and wrap around beef, brushing with egg yolk.,5.
- 5.Score pastry, glaze, and bake at 200C for 20 minutes, then 180C for 15 minutes.
Serve with
📖 Histoire du plat
👨🍳 Variation pro
FAQ
How long does it take to make Classic Beef Wellington?
Classic Beef Wellington usually takes around 35 min from prep to serving.
Can I make Classic Beef Wellington ahead of time?
Yes. Cook ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
What should I serve with Classic Beef Wellington?
Serve Classic Beef Wellington with simple sides like salad, rice, or roasted vegetables. Plan for about 4 servings. Key ingredients include 400g mushrooms, 1-2tbsp English Mustard.
Can I substitute ingredients in Classic Beef Wellington?
Yes. Use ingredients with similar texture and flavor, then adjust seasoning gradually to maintain balance.