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These Beef Wellington Bites are an impressive appetizer perfect for your next get-together, combining tender beef with a savory mushroom and olive filling wrapped in crisp, flaky puff pastry. They offer a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that are sure to delight your guests and keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- Beef tenderloin: one pound is the star ingredient, tender and flavorful for a melt-in-your-mouth experience
- Salt: one teaspoon enhances the natural flavors of the beef without overshadowing it
- Black pepper: one teaspoon adds a subtle but warming spice
- Olive oil: two tablespoons used both for browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables to lock in flavor
- Onion: one medium contributes sweetness and depth to the filling
- Button mushrooms: eight ounces bring an earthy richness essential to the traditional Wellington taste
- Soy sauce: one tablespoon is added to boost umami flavor in the mushroom filling
- Dried oregano: one teaspoon adds a light fragrant note complementing the filling perfectly
- Black olives: half a cup pitted for a briny kick that cuts through the richness
- Puff pastry: one sheet provides the buttery, flaky wrapping that makes each bite irresistible
- Mustard: two tablespoons spread on the pastry to add a zesty layer and balance the flavors
- Egg: one large beaten for brushing pastry to achieve a gorgeous golden finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Beef:
- Cut the beef tenderloin into 1-inch pieces. Generously season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat and brown half of the beef pieces for 1 to 2 minutes on each side ensuring a nicely caramelized crust without overcooking.
- Prep the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius to make sure it is ready once your bites are assembled.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and add chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook slowly for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are soft and golden, developing deep flavors.
- Make the Filling:
- Transfer the mushroom and onion mixture into a food processor. Add the pitted black olives and pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but still has some texture. Stir in soy sauce and dried oregano for added depth.
- Assemble the Bites:
- Unfold the puff pastry and cut into squares approximately 3 to 3.5 inches wide. Spread a thin layer of mustard on each square, then add a spoonful of the mushroom filling. Place a piece of seared beef on top of the filling.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the prepared bites on a parchment-lined baking tray. Brush the pastry edges and tops with beaten egg to encourage browning. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden and the beef is cooked to your liking.
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Storage Tips
Keep the Beef Wellington Bites refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two days. They reheat beautifully in the oven to retain their crisp pastry rather than getting soggy in the microwave. You can also freeze them before baking, just add an extra few minutes to baking time when ready to serve.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find beef tenderloin, a well-marbled filet mignon or sirloin can work but choose cuts that remain tender when quickly seared. For a vegetarian twist, omit the beef and increase mushrooms or add cooked lentils to the filling. You may swap black olives for green olives or capers for a different type of briny punch.
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Serving Suggestions
These bites pair wonderfully with a tangy horseradish sauce, a rich béarnaise, or a classic Dijon mustard for dipping. Serve alongside fresh greens or a crisp white wine for an elegant appetizer spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of beef is best for these bites?
Beef tenderloin works best for its tenderness and rich flavor, ensuring a juicy result.
- → How do I prevent the pastry from leaking during baking?
Seal the edges of the puff pastry tightly and brush with a beaten egg to help it stay closed and achieve a golden finish.
- → Can I prepare the mushroom and olive filling ahead of time?
Yes, the filling can be made in advance and refrigerated; bring it to room temperature before assembling.
- → What oven temperature ensures a flaky crust?
Baking at 400°F (200°C) helps the pastry puff nicely and turn golden brown without overcooking the filling.
- → Are these bites suitable for a crowd?
Yes, they are perfect finger foods for gatherings, easy to serve and share in small portions.