Save to Pinterest Tender beef wrapped in golden puff pastry, infused with mushroom duxelles and festive herbs—perfect as elegant party appetizers.
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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Save to Pinterest Common Recipe Questions
- → What cut of beef is ideal for these bites?
Beef tenderloin cut into small cubes is preferred for its tenderness and quick searing capability.
- → How is the mushroom duxelles prepared?
Finely chopped mushrooms are cooked with minced shallots, garlic, butter, and fresh thyme until moisture evaporates and the mixture turns golden.
- → Can I make these bites vegetarian?
Yes, substitute beef with additional mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian variation.
- → What is the purpose of brushing the pastry with beaten egg?
Egg wash helps achieve a glossy, golden finish on the puff pastry after baking.
- → How should these bites be served?
They are best served warm and can be paired with cranberry chutney or horseradish cream for an added festive touch.
- → How do I avoid soggy pastry?
Ensure the mushroom mixture is cooked thoroughly to remove excess moisture before assembling the bites.