Pin It Tender beef wrapped in golden puff pastry, infused with mushroom duxelles and festive herbs perfect as elegant party appetizers.
This recipe makes perfect elegant party appetizers that impress every time.
Ingredients
- Beef: 400 g beef tenderloin, cut into 2 cm cubes, 1 tbsp olive oil, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Mushroom Duxelles: 200 g cremini mushrooms, finely chopped, 1 small shallot, finely minced, 1 garlic clove, minced, 1 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- Pastry: 2 sheets ready-rolled puff pastry (approx. 500 g total), 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Pat beef cubes dry, season with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sear beef cubes for 30 seconds per side (do not cook through). Transfer to a plate and let cool.
- Step 3:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shallot, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until moisture evaporates and mixture is golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in thyme, season with salt and pepper. Let cool completely.
- Step 4:
- Cut puff pastry sheets into 20 squares (approx. 7x7 cm each).
- Step 5:
- Optional: Brush each beef cube lightly with Dijon mustard.
- Step 6:
- Place a small spoonful of mushroom duxelles in the center of each pastry square. Top with a beef cube. Fold corners over to enclose the filling, pinching edges to seal. Place seam-side down on prepared baking sheet.
- Step 7:
- Brush each parcel with beaten egg.
- Step 8:
- Bake 15-18 minutes, or until pastry is golden and puffed.
- Step 9:
- Cool slightly before serving warm.
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This recipe has become a family favorite for holiday parties and special occasions.
Notes
Serve with cranberry chutney or horseradish cream for a festive touch.
Required Tools
Skillet, sharp knife, baking sheet, parchment paper, pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains: Eggs, Wheat/Gluten, Dairy (butter, pastry may contain milk). Check pastry ingredients for possible traces of nuts or soy.
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Enjoy these bites warm for the best taste and texture.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cut of beef works best for these bites?
Beef tenderloin cut into small cubes is ideal for its tenderness and quick searing time.
- → How should the mushroom duxelles be prepared?
Cook finely chopped cremini mushrooms with shallot, garlic, butter, and thyme until moisture evaporates for a rich, concentrated flavor.
- → Can I use store-bought puff pastry for convenience?
Yes, ready-rolled puff pastry sheets work well and streamline the assembly process.
- → What is the baking temperature and time?
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15-18 minutes until the pastry turns golden and puffed.
- → Are there suggestions for serving these bites?
Serve warm alongside cranberry chutney or horseradish cream to enhance festive flavors.
- → How can I avoid soggy pastry?
Ensure the duxelles mixture is well-cooked and dry before assembling to maintain a crisp pastry shell.