Chef's Surprise - Oct 15

Chef's Surprise - Oct 15

Well, let's start with this culinary conspiracy. Fasten your seatbelt, darling, because we're embarking on a journey from the fertile fields of Bavaria to the heart of your kitchen. It's long, yes: a true story of cattle luck, wheat whispering, and a dash of he ne se quoi. My name is Kolbeigh van Keuken and I have been obsessed with the perfect beef wellington all my life. It is more than a dish; It's a ritual.

The Shepherd's Secret: Making a Beef Wellington

Let's face it, this is a project that requires commitment. It's a deep dive into the roots of taste, a test of patience and a guaranteed conversation starter. Think of it as a culinary archaeological dig: uncovering layers of history and flavor in every perfectly contained bite.

Part 1: Vee: Humble Beginnings

First, you need a cow. Not only any cow, look We're talking about a sturdy, dual-purpose breed: something with a good appetite and a willingness to cooperate (or at least tolerate your efforts). Look for a Highland cow, they are surprisingly adaptable. Not Hurry to do it. Proper conditioning is key. We start with a few months of pasture feeding to make sure they are well fed and grazing comfortably. Are you picking wheat? It's a nice independent task that involves a well-timed rain and a good, sturdy tractor. The bottom line is that we need a fat and healthy animal base.

Part 2: The dough: a symphony of flour

Here is the magic Actually start We do not use a ready-made dough, it is an artisanal masterpiece. The batsman is the soul of Wellington. Here's what you need:

  • Flour: 500g high-quality "Saint-Émilion" flour (it's the best, you know).
  • cold butter: 150 g diced. that's all decisive. You must be cold. We're talking Icelandic butter, if you can get it: it gives it a subtle flavor.
  • Salt: 10 g. A pinch of sea salt is all you need.
  • bud: 1 large yellow
  • Liquid: 2-3 tablespoons of milk or cold cream.

Mix the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and process with a dough mixer until it resembles coarse crumbs. Then add the egg yolk and milk. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it cool for at least 30 minutes. The longer it cools, the better the consistency.

Part 3: Meat - A luxurious banquet

Our goal is a well-marbled beef tenderloin. Start with a 2kg beef tenderloin. A cross roast is perfect. Mark the surface with a diamond pattern - this is an artistic mark. Season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Part 4: The Heart - The Story of the Flesh

This is where true artistry comes in. Let's create a Slow Cooker Stuffed Beef Wellington. Start by browning the meat in butter until golden brown on all sides. Then add finely chopped onions, carrots and celery, just enough to create a nice base. Add one pound of beef, one pound of pork, and one pound of mushrooms. Let it simmer for at least 4 hours, or up to 8, so the flavors can blend. Remember, the longer the better!

Part 5: Cooking: A Slow Dance

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Put the meat in a pan. Add a generous amount of beef broth (approximately 1 liter) and a spoonful of red wine. Cover and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing.

Part 6: The Mushroom Mystery: A Touch of Earth

For the mushrooms we will use a mixture of cremini, shiitake and oyster mushrooms. Fry them in butter with garlic and thyme.

Part 7: Wine: a harmonious blend

A robust, earthy red wine, something like Bordeaux or Burgundy, is perfect. Let it heat up a little while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Part 8: The Gathering - A Culinary Masterpiece

Place the dough on a lightly floured surface. Expand it to a diameter of 30 cm. Put the meat in the middle. Fold the dough over the meat, crimping the edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg (1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon milk).

At the end, put it in the preheated oven until it turns golden brown. Drizzle over the rest of the juices from the pot. It is then covered with the mushroom mixture, a generous layer of rich meat sauce and a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

Paprika, baby! Don't skimp on the paprika. It is the color of passion, the warmth of a home and a bit of rebellious joy.

Now the most important part. Grab this magnificent Wellington and gift it to your loved one. Let the scents fill the room. Let the aromas transport you. Let them try the story.



Tell me what you think! Do you want me to focus on a specific part, like growing mushrooms or the winemaking process?

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