French Christmas Beef Wellington

1. Recipe Title: French Christmas Beef Wellington

2. Brief Description: This French-inspired Beef Wellington is a classic holiday dish that is sure to impress your guests. A tender beef tenderloin is enveloped in a savory mushroom duxelles, wrapped in puff pastry, and baked to golden perfection.

3. Servings: 7-8 people

4. Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

5. Ingredients:

- 2 lb beef tenderloin

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- 2 tbsp olive oil

- 1 lb cremini mushrooms, finely chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped

- 1/2 cup dry white wine

- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

6. Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Season the beef tenderloin generously with salt and black pepper.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside to cool.

4. In the same skillet, add the chopped mushrooms and garlic. Cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and it evaporates, about 8-10 minutes.

5. Add the thyme and white wine to the mushrooms. Cook until the wine has evaporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool.

6. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to a size that can wrap the beef tenderloin completely.

7. Spread the mushroom mixture evenly over the puff pastry.

8. Place the seared beef tenderloin in the center of the puff pastry. Carefully wrap the pastry around the beef, sealing the edges.

9. Brush the pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

10. Place the Beef Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the beef reaches your desired doneness.

12. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

7. Special Tips & Variations:

- For a festive touch, you can decorate the Beef Wellington with pastry cutouts like holly leaves or snowflakes before baking.

- Serve the Beef Wellington with a side of roasted vegetables or a classic French red wine sauce for a complete holiday meal.