Mushroom stew with hazelnut crumble and Porto sauce

Beef with Porcini, Hazelnut Crumble, and Porto Sauce - A Holiday Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Introduction

If you are looking for a sophisticated recipe, perfect for a festive meal, you have come to the right place! This recipe for beef with porcini, hazelnut crumble, and Porto sauce is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an elegant way to impress your guests. The porcini, combined with the rich flavor of beef tenderloin, perfectly blends with the sweetness of Porto sauce, creating a memorable culinary experience. Let’s begin this gastronomic journey!

Necessary Ingredients

- 200 g beef tenderloin
- 200 g fresh porcini
- 5 g dried porcini
- 20 g hazelnuts
- 50 g bread crumbs
- 20 g pistachios
- 10 g arugula
- 150 ml Porto wine
- 30 g butter
- 2 bay leaves
- Sea salt, to taste
- Peppercorns, to taste
- 1 garlic clove
- 30 g sugar

Nutritional Benefits

Beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, essential for a balanced diet. Porcini, besides their distinctive flavor, are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to overall health. Hazelnuts and pistachios add healthy fats and fiber, while the Porto sauce brings a touch of refinement and sweetness.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Beef Tenderloin
Start by trimming the beef tenderloin into even portions. Use a sharp knife to achieve an elegant appearance. Season the meat with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let the meat sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Preparing the Porcini
Clean the fresh porcini with a damp cloth to remove dirt. Place them in a pot of water, add salt, peppercorns, bay leaves, and the garlic clove cut in half. Boil the porcini for about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside. Reserve a little of the cooking water for later use.

3. Preparing the Hazelnut Crumble
In a blender, combine the bread crumbs, dried porcini, and hazelnuts. Grind the ingredients until you obtain a fine, aromatic crumb. You can add salt and pepper to taste. This crumble will add a crunchy texture and intense flavor to your dish.

4. Preparing the Porto Sauce
In a skillet, melt the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Once the sugar becomes caramelized, add the Porto wine and let it simmer until reduced by half. Finally, add the butter and stir until completely melted, creating a creamy and aromatic sauce.

5. Cooking the Beef Tenderloin
In a hot skillet, add a little oil and then the beef tenderloin. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes to achieve a beautiful, browned crust. If you prefer your meat more well-done, you can leave it over medium heat for a few more minutes.

6. Assembling the Dish
On a flat plate, place a layer of hazelnut crumble. In the center, carefully place the cooked porcini and beef tenderloin. Garnish with fresh arugula leaves and sprinkle a little pistachio dust for added color and texture. Finally, drizzle the Porto sauce over the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This recipe pairs wonderfully with a dry red wine that complements the rich flavors of the dish. You can add a side of mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables to create a complete menu. A fresh green salad will provide a pleasant contrast and balance the richness of the dish.

Possible Variations

If you want to try a vegetarian version, you can replace the beef tenderloin with a Portobello mushroom steak, which will absorb the flavors of the crumble and Porto sauce. You can also experiment with other types of nuts, such as pecans or almonds, to diversify the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different mushrooms?
Yes, you can replace porcini with any other type of mushrooms you prefer, such as champignon or shiitake.

2. How can I enhance the Porto sauce?
You can add some herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to create an even more aromatic sauce.

3. How much meat should I serve per portion?
A portion of 100-150 g of beef tenderloin is ideal to satisfy the appetite without being too heavy.

Conclusion

Whether it's a holiday dinner or a special occasion, this recipe for beef with porcini, hazelnut crumble, and Porto sauce will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. By experimenting with the ingredients and the way of serving, you can transform every meal into a true celebration of flavors. I invite you to share this recipe with your friends and enjoy the moments spent together, savoring every bite!