Beef Wellington Bites are the perfect party appetizer or snack, combining all the classic flavors of a traditional Beef Wellington in a convenient and bite-sized form. Thanks to the air fryer, you can achieve a perfectly crisp exterior and succulent interior without the fuss of conventional oven baking. This recipe will guide you through creating these delightful morsels with ease, making them an ideal addition to any gathering or a casual family dinner.
Ingredients
- 500g beef tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 150g mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 250g puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons flour, for dusting
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Season the beef tenderloin pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sear the beef for about 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Remove from the pan and set aside to cool.
- In the same pan, add butter and allow it to melt. Stir in the chopped mushrooms and garlic, cooking until the mixture is soft and any moisture has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Transfer this mixture to a bowl and let it cool.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into squares large enough to encase each piece of beef.
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F).
- Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard onto each piece of seared beef. Place a teaspoon of the mushroom mixture on top of the mustard.
- Place each beef piece in the center of a pastry square. Wrap the pastry around the beef and mushroom mixture, pinching and sealing the edges to ensure they are well-encased.
- Brush the tops of the pastry with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
- Place the beef Wellington bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Air fry them in batches if necessary, each for about 10-12 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp.
- Remove from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Tips and Tricks
- Ensure your puff pastry is properly thawed but still cold enough to handle, as this makes it easier to work with.
- For added flavor, consider adding a slice of prosciutto around each beef piece before wrapping it with the pastry.
- These bites can be prepped in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before air frying.
- Experiment with different herbs or spices to personalize your bites!
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Utilizing an air fryer for Beef Wellington bites is not only convenient but also healthier. The air frying technique reduces the need for excessive oil, ensuring you get the crispy texture of traditional frying with less fat. It also speeds up cooking time, making it perfect for quick preparations without sacrificing taste or texture.
Conclusion
These Beef Wellington Bites are a testament to how classic recipes can be adapted for modern cooking methods without losing their essence. The air fryer breathes new life into this dish, providing a healthier and less time-consuming route to enjoy such a gourmet treat. Whether it's for a holiday party, a special occasion, or a weeknight dinner, these bites are sure to impress.
Enjoy making these delicious morsels and watch as they quickly become a favorite among friends and family. Happy cooking!