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Beef Wellington Bites Air Fryer Recipe

Beef Wellington is a classic British dish, often served as the centrepiece for special occasions. Its rich flavours and impressive presentation make it a favourite among food enthusiasts. However, the traditional preparation can be time-consuming. Enter the modern marvel of the air fryer, which allows us to enjoy the decadent flavours of Beef Wellington in a fraction of the time! In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple yet delicious recipe for Beef Wellington Bites, ideal for parties or a cosy evening at home.

Ingredients

To prepare Beef Wellington Bites, gather the following ingredients:

• 500g beef fillet (or tenderloin), diced into small cubes
• 250g puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 100g mushrooms (finely chopped)
• 50g pate (beef or chicken, your preference)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Fresh thyme (optional)

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Frying pan
• Cooking spoon
• Pastry brush
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. Preparing the Filling:

Begin by heating a splash of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent. Incorporate the chopped mushrooms and continue to cook until the moisture has evaporated, and the mixture is dry. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme if using. Once cooked, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mushroom mixture with diced beef fillet, Dijon mustard, and a generous spoonful of pate. Mix well to ensure that all ingredients are evenly coated, and adjust seasoning to taste.

2. Preparing the Pastry:

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it is about 3mm thick. Cut the pastry into squares (approximately 10cm x 10cm), large enough to encase the filling.

3. Assembling the Bites:

Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the centre of each pastry square. Carefully fold the corners inwards to encase the filling, pinching the seams to seal. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

Once all the bites are assembled, brush them generously with the beaten egg to give them a lovely golden hue during cooking.

4. Cooking in the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Arrange the Beef Wellington Bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking. You may need to do this in batches.

Cook the bites for about 12–15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.

5. Serving:

Once cooked, remove the Beef Wellington Bites from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Consider pairing them with a side of horseradish sauce or a rich gravy for dipping to enhance the experience.

Conclusion

These Beef Wellington Bites made in the air fryer are a delectable twist on a traditional favourite. They are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even as a luxurious snack in front of the telly. With their flaky pastry and rich, savoury filling, they are sure to impress your guests. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavours of Beef Wellington in a bite-sized form!