What cut of beef works best for this dish?

Beef tenderloin cubes are ideal due to their tenderness and ability to cook quickly while remaining juicy.

How should the mushroom duxelles be prepared?

Finely chop cremini mushrooms, shallots, and garlic, then cook them with butter and thyme until all moisture evaporates and mixture turns golden.

Yes, assemble the bites and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving for the best flaky texture.

Brushing beaten egg on the pastry gives it a glossy, golden finish after baking.

Yes, substitute beef with mushrooms or roasted vegetables to keep the bites flavorful and suitable for vegetarians.

Tender beef wrapped in golden puff pastry, infused with mushroom duxelles and festive herbs perfect as elegant party appetizers.

This recipe brings a festive touch to any party and is always a crowd-pleaser in my family.

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

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). 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.

This dish always creates warm family moments during the holidays.

Skillet, Sharp knife, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Pastry brush

Contains Eggs, Wheat/Gluten, Dairy (butter, pastry may contain milk). Check pastry ingredients for possible traces of nuts or soy.

Calories: 95, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 7 g, Protein: 4 g (per bite)

Serve these beef bites warm for best flavor they make a perfect elegant appetizer.

→ What cut of beef works best for this dish?: Beef tenderloin cubes are ideal due to their tenderness and ability to cook quickly while remaining juicy.
→ How should the mushroom duxelles be prepared?: Finely chop cremini mushrooms, shallots, and garlic, then cook them with butter and thyme until all moisture evaporates and mixture turns golden.
→ Can I make these bites ahead of time?: Yes, assemble the bites and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving for the best flaky texture.
→ What is the purpose of the egg wash?: Brushing beaten egg on the pastry gives it a glossy, golden finish after baking.
→ Are there vegetarian alternatives?: Yes, substitute beef with mushrooms or roasted vegetables to keep the bites flavorful and suitable for vegetarians.