Pin 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.
Pin 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.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 95, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 7 g, Protein: 4 g per bite
Pin This festive appetizer is sure to impress your guests with elegant flavors and easy preparation.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy?
Ensure the mushroom duxelles is cooked thoroughly to evaporate moisture before assembling, which keeps the pastry crisp.
- → Can I prepare these bites in advance?
Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate them before baking, but bake just before serving to maintain crispiness.
- → What cut of beef works best for this dish?
Beef tenderloin cut into small cubes is ideal for tenderness and quick searing.
- → Is there a vegetarian alternative suggested?
Substitute beef cubes with mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a meat-free version.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor here?
Fresh thyme leaves add a subtle herbal note that complements the mushroom duxelles and beef.
- → How important is the Dijon mustard in this preparation?
Dijon mustard is optional but adds a mild tang that lifts the flavor of the beef and filling.