Beef Wellington

Beef Wellington is a dish that regularly graces the menu at officer mess dinners at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. It’s served to visitors during presentations about the historical origins of the meal and its ingredients.

Description:
Serves 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time: 50 to 60 minutes

Pastry Ingredients:

• 4 cups (400g) flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 cup (230g) butter
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup (125ml) cold water

Filling Ingredients:

• 1 to 1.5 kg beef tenderloin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 egg, lightly beaten

Preparation:

1. Mix the flour, salt, and butter in a bowl using a pastry blender.
2. Add the egg and enough cold water to form a dough.
3. Wrap in parchment paper and refrigerate.

Note: You can replace this pastry with thawed puff pastry.

4. Preheat the oven to 230°C.
5. Season the tenderloin with salt and pepper.
6. Place the meat on a rack in a roasting pan and roast for 15 minutes for rare meat, and 20 to 25 minutes for medium-rare.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Preheat the oven to 220°C.
9. Roll out the pastry into a rectangle about 40 x 30 cm and 0.5 cm thick.
10. Place the tenderloin in the center. Lift the long sides of the pastry and fold them over so they overlap.
11. Brush with beaten egg to seal.
12. Lift the ends of the pastry, fold, and brush again with egg to seal the seam.
13. Transfer the meat wrapped in pastry to a baking sheet, seam side down.
14. Brush the entire pastry with egg.
15. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.

Here are some reasons why you might enjoy Beef Wellington:

1. Luxurious Flavors: Beef Wellington is a decadent dish featuring tender beef tenderloin encased in flaky pastry, creating a harmonious blend of savory flavors and textures.
2. Impressive Presentation: This dish is visually stunning, making it perfect for special occasions or dinner parties where you want to impress your guests with an elegant and sophisticated entrée.
3. Versatile Ingredients: While the traditional recipe calls for beef tenderloin, you can customize it with different cuts of meat or add complementary ingredients like mushrooms or foie gras to suit your taste preferences.
4. A Culinary Challenge: Making Beef Wellington can be a culinary adventure, offering the opportunity to hone your cooking skills and tackle a classic recipe that’s been enjoyed for generations.
5. Memorable Dining Experience: Whether you’re enjoying Beef Wellington with family at home or dining out at a fine restaurant, it’s a dish that creates lasting memories and leaves a lasting impression.
6. Celebration-Worthy: Beef Wellington is often associated with celebrations and special occasions, making it the perfect choice for marking milestones or indulging in a luxurious meal to treat yourself or loved ones.
7. Timeless Classic: Despite its origins dating back to the 19th century, Beef Wellington remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate food enthusiasts with its timeless appeal and exquisite taste.

Overall, Beef Wellington offers a culinary experience that’s as rewarding to create as it is to savor. From its rich flavors to its elegant presentation, this iconic dish is sure to delight your palate and elevate any dining occasion.

You can serve this dish hot or cold.

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