Beef Wellington: Air Fryer Magic?

Beef Wellington is a classic dish that has been cooked in ovens for years, but can you cook it in an air fryer? The answer is yes! Air fryer Beef Wellington is a quick, easy, and deceptively simple way to make this dish. It first became popular back in 2018, and it has been a favourite among food bloggers and home cooks ever since. The air fryer cuts down on cooking time and produces a succulent fillet of beef surrounded by a flavoursome layer of prosciutto, pate, and garlic mushrooms, all covered with crisp, golden pastry.

Choosing the right cut of beef

When it comes to choosing the right cut of beef for your Beef Wellington, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, it is important to understand that the cut of beef used for Beef Wellington is typically a more expensive cut, such as a filet of beef or beef tenderloin. This is because the short cooking time for Beef Wellington requires a tender cut of meat.

A good-sized piece of fillet steak is generally considered the best cut for Beef Wellington, especially when cooking in an air fryer. However, it is important to note that the size of the steak should not be too big, as it needs to fit into the air fryer basket. For example, a 1kg/2.2-lb fillet steak may be trimmed down to ensure it fits into the air fryer. If you are using an oven instead of an air fryer, you may be able to use a larger cut of meat.

If you are on a budget, there are alternative cuts of meat that can be used. Some cheaper options include sirloin, rump, or beef brisket. However, it is important to note that while these cuts may be more affordable, they may not be as tender or flavourful as the more expensive options.

Another option is to use ground beef instead of a whole cut of meat. This can be a more affordable option and still allows you to enjoy the "beefy goodness" in a Beef Wellington format.

When purchasing your chosen cut of beef, it is recommended to go to a butcher, as they will be able to provide you with the right size and quality of meat. They will also be able to advise on the best options if you are looking for a more affordable alternative to the traditional fillet steak or tenderloin.

Preparing the beef

Before cooking, you should season the beef fillets generously with salt and pepper. Heat some olive oil in a large pan on high heat and sear the beef on all sides, including the ends, for about 2-3 minutes per side. You can also add some herbs to the beef at this stage. Once browned, remove the beef from the pan and let it cool.

Once the beef has cooled, brush it with mustard. Then, roll the beef in prosciutto or Parma ham, using plastic wrap to tie it up tightly and hold it in a nice log shape. Place the beef in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill and ensure it maintains its shape.

Preparing the pastry

Firstly, decide whether you want to make your own puff pastry or use store-bought. While making your own pastry can be more special, store-bought puff pastry is a convenient and welcome shortcut that still yields delicious results. If you opt for store-bought, remember to thaw the pastry sheet in advance. Place it in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 hours, or on the counter for about 40 minutes, until it becomes easily pliable but not too soft.

If you decide to make your own puff pastry, follow a trusted recipe, and ensure you give yourself enough time as it can be a time-consuming process.

Once your pastry is ready, roll it out on a lightly floured surface. The size should be sufficient to wrap around the beef, so roll it into a rectangle shape. If you are making individual Beef Wellingtons, adjust the size accordingly.

Now, it's time to assemble the Beef Wellington. Lay your chosen fillings (such as prosciutto, pate, and mushrooms) in the centre of the pastry, leaving a border around the edge. Place the beef fillet on top of the fillings. Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg yolks or a whole beaten egg. This will help the pastry seal and give it a golden-brown colour.

Carefully roll the pastry over the beef and fillings, creating a tight log shape. Trim any excess pastry at the ends, ensuring the pastry isn't more than 2 layers thick, as this will impact cooking.

Finally, brush the top and sides of the pastry with more beaten egg. This will give it an appealing golden finish. If you wish, you can also sprinkle coarse salt or chopped herbs on top for added flavour and texture.

Your Beef Wellington is now ready to be cooked in your air fryer!

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for beef Wellington in an air fryer depend on the size of the cut of beef and the desired doneness. For a medium-sized cut of beef, the temperature should be set between 180-200°C (350-390°F) and cooked for around 20-25 minutes. For a larger cut of beef, it may be necessary to cook at a lower temperature of 120°F for 30 minutes at 400°F.

It is important to note that air fryers cook from the top, so flipping the beef Wellington during cooking is crucial to prevent a soggy bottom. Additionally, the beef Wellington will continue to cook for a short time after being removed from the air fryer, so it is essential to account for this when determining the desired doneness.

For a medium-rare doneness, aim for a final internal temperature of 52-55°C. The beef Wellington will continue to cook after removing it from the air fryer, so remove it when it reaches 52°C, and it will finish at 55°C while resting.

If you are using ground beef instead of a whole fillet, the cooking time and temperature may vary slightly. One recipe recommends preheating the air fryer to 300°F and cooking the ground beef Wellington for 18-22 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

It is also important to consider the size of the air fryer basket when preparing the beef Wellington. If the cut of beef is too large, it may not fit properly in the air fryer, leading to uneven cooking. As a reference, one recipe mentioned trimming a 1kg fillet steak down to a more manageable size for their air fryer.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer beef Wellington can be served with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Sides: Air fryer Brussels sprouts are a great option to accompany the beef Wellington. They can be prepared beforehand and served tender with the beef. Other vegetable options include air fryer asparagus or roasted vegetables.
• Sauces: A variety of sauces can complement the dish. Try a dijon mustard dip, a pretzel dip, or au jus. These can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference.
• Resting Period: Allow your beef Wellington to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the meat retain its juices and ensures a juicy, tender bite.
• Garnishes: Get creative with your garnishes to add a pop of colour and flavour to the dish. Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or chives can be sprinkled on top, or you could add a side garnish of microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant touch.
• Portion Size: Beef Wellington is a rich and indulgent dish, so consider serving smaller portions. You can make mini Wellingtons or individual beef Wellington pockets, which are perfect for ensuring each guest gets an equal portion of this delicious meal.
• Plating: When plating your beef Wellington, consider adding a drizzle of reduced balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the presentation and flavour. You could also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, adding colour and texture to the plate.

Frequently asked questions