Save to Pins Tender beef wrapped in golden puff pastry, infused with mushroom duxelles and festive herbs—perfect as elegant party appetizers.
This is a favorite at our holiday gatherings and never fails to impress guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
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℃ (400℉). 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.
Save to Pins This recipe brings our family together every holiday season and creates lasting memories around the table.
Notes
Substitute beef with mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version. Serve with cranberry chutney or horseradish cream for a festive touch. Ensure duxelles is well-cooked and dry to avoid soggy pastry.
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.
Save to Pins This festive bite-size treat is perfect for sharing and sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Questions & Answers
- → What cut of beef is best for these bites?
Beef tenderloin cubes are ideal due to their tenderness and quick searing time, ensuring juicy bites.
- → How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
Make sure the mushroom duxelles is dry and well-cooked to avoid excess moisture, which can soften the pastry.
- → Can I prepare these bites in advance?
Yes, assemble the parcels ahead and refrigerate them before baking; bake just before serving for best crispness.
- → What flavor does the mushroom duxelles add?
The duxelles offers an earthy, savory depth that complements the tender beef and buttery pastry beautifully.
- → Are there good vegetarian alternatives?
Substitute beef cubes with mushrooms or roasted vegetables to create delicious vegetarian bites with similar texture.