Beef fillet in pastry

Beef Fillet in Puff Pastry – a Delicious and Sophisticated Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 6

This beef fillet in puff pastry recipe is perfect for a special dinner or occasion. The combination of juicy beef and fluffy puff pastry creates a dish that is sure to impress anyone. Additionally, the marinade sauce adds a deep and flavorful taste, turning every bite into a memorable experience.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Beef fillet in puff pastry is a dish that has evolved over time, associated with festive meals and special occasions. Its origin is said to be in the culinary traditions of European kitchens, where beef has always been considered a luxury ingredient. The use of puff pastry to encase the meat contributes not only to its aesthetic appearance but also to maintaining its juiciness during baking.

Ingredients

For the marinade sauce:
- 200 ml beer (or red wine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- A few sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the pastry:
- 500 g flour
- 200 ml warm water
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 1 kg beef tenderloin
- 500 g minced meat
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oregano, thyme, basil, parsley, to taste

For brushing:
- 1 egg, beaten

Step by Step

Step 1: Marinating the Meat
1. In a large bowl, mix the beer (or wine), olive oil, thyme broken into pieces, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Puncture the piece of meat in several places with a skewer to allow the marinade to penetrate well.
3. Rub the meat with mustard and add it to the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 2-3 hours, turning the meat occasionally for even marination.

Step 2: Preparing the Pastry
1. Sift the flour twice into a large bowl. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy pastry.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour, add the oil, warm water, salt, and vinegar.
3. Mix the ingredients with a fork or your hands until a homogeneous dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic.
5. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Preparing the Filling
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden.
2. Add the minced meat to the skillet and cook until the liquid has completely evaporated and the meat is well cooked.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and add the spices (salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, basil, and parsley) to taste. Mix well and let the filling cool.

Step 4: Assembling the Roll
1. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll each part into a thin sheet on a floured surface.
2. Place the first sheet of dough in a greased baking dish. Lightly brush with oil.
3. Add the second sheet on top, brush again with oil, and then evenly spread the sautéed meat filling.
4. Remove the piece of meat from the marinade, drain it, and place it on top of the filling. Roll the dough tightly to form a log.
5. Place the roll in the dish and brush the top with the beaten egg for a golden and appetizing crust.

Step 5: Baking
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 50 minutes, until the roll is golden and crispy. You can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the dough – if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Practical Tips
- *For a more intense flavor,* you can add other spices to the marinade, such as paprika or chili.
- *If you don’t have time for marinating,* you can puncture the meat and brush it with mustard and spices before baking, although the flavor will be less profound.
- *For an even fluffier dough,* replace part of the water with warm milk.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is rich in protein due to the beef and the minced meat filling. It also contains carbohydrates from the puff pastry. A serving (approximately 200g) may have around 450-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the cooking method.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, this recipe can be adapted with chicken or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- How can I store the roll? The roll can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and to reheat it, use the oven to maintain the crispy texture.

Serving
Serve this delicacy alongside a fresh salad or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. You can accompany the dish with a dry red wine or even an artisanal beer to highlight the flavors of the meat.

Variations
- *Add mushrooms or vegetables to the filling* for extra flavor and texture.
- *Replace the beer with soy sauce* for a different umami note.

I encourage you to let your creativity flow in the kitchen. This beef fillet in puff pastry recipe is not just a delicious dish but also an opportunity to explore and experiment with flavors and combinations. Enjoy your meal!