individual beef wellington recipe uk

A Classic British Dish with a Twist: Individual Beef Wellington Recipe UK

Beef Wellington, a classic British dish, is a show-stopping centerpiece for any special occasion. Traditionally, it's made with a large filet of beef coated in a layer of duxelles, wrapped in puff pastry, and baked to golden perfection. However, preparing individual Beef Wellingtons can be a game-changer for intimate gatherings or dinner parties. In this recipe, we'll guide you through the process of creating individual Beef Wellingtons, perfect for a UK-inspired culinary experience.

The Benefits of Individual Beef Wellingtons

Preparing individual Beef Wellingtons offers several advantages over the traditional large format. Firstly, it ensures each guest receives a perfectly portioned serving, eliminating the need for slicing and serving. Additionally, individual Wellingtons cook more evenly, reducing the risk of overcooking or undercooking the beef. Lastly, they make for a stunning presentation, adding a touch of elegance to your dinner table.

Ingredients for Individual Beef Wellington Recipe UK

For this recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 400g beef fillet, cut into 4 equal pieces
• 1/2 cup duxelles (see below for recipe)
• 1 pack puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Duxelles Recipe

To make the duxelles, you'll need:

• 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms (such as button or cremini)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions for Individual Beef Wellington Recipe UK

Follow these steps to create your individual Beef Wellingtons:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Season the beef fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Spoon a small amount of duxelles onto each beef fillet, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Place a beef fillet in the center of each pastry square, leaving a 1-inch border around the beef.
6. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg.
7. Fold the pastry over the beef, pressing the edges to seal.
8. Place the individual Wellingtons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the beef reaches your desired level of doneness.

Tips and Variations for Your Individual Beef Wellington Recipe UK

To take your individual Beef Wellingtons to the next level, consider the following tips and variations:

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the beef reaches a safe internal temperature.
• Add some flavor to the duxelles by using different types of mushrooms or adding a splash of cognac.
• Experiment with various seasonings, such as thyme or rosemary, to complement the beef.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a rich demiglace for added flavor.

With this individual Beef Wellington recipe, you'll be sure to impress your guests with a quintessential British dish that's both elegant and delicious. So, go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!