Elk Tenderloin Wellington
Elk Recipe
1Setup & Prepare
About This Recipe
This show-stopping Wellington wraps tender elk tenderloin in mushroom duxelles and flaky puff pastry, creating the ultimate special occasion centerpiece. The advanced technique requires skill but delivers restaurant-quality results with perfectly cooked elk encased in golden, buttery pastry.
Cultural Context
Named after the Duke of Wellington, this dish represents the pinnacle of French pâtisserie technique applied to premium game meat. The original used beef tenderloin, but elk's superior flavor and lean texture actually improves upon the classic preparation, creating a dish worthy of the most sophisticated dinner parties.
2Ingredients
Shopping List
*Mushroom Duxelles
3Cooking Instructions
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Duxelles Preparation: Sauté shallots and garlic in butter until soft. Add mushrooms and cook until all liquid evaporates, about 15 minutes. Season and cool completely.
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Tenderloin Searing: Season tenderloin with salt and pepper. Sear in hot oil on all sides until browned but still rare, about 6 minutes total. Cool completely and brush with mustard.
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Pastry Assembly: Spread the mushroom duxelles evenly. Roll pastry into rectangle large enough to encase tenderloin. Spread duxelles down center, lay prosciutto over duxelles, spread pâté over prosciutto.
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Wellington Assembly: Place seared tenderloin over pâté. Brush pastry edges with egg wash, fold over filling, and seal seams carefully. Turn seam-side down.
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Decoration: Score decorative pattern on top and brush entire surface with egg wash. Chill 30 minutes to set.
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Baking: Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce to 400°F and bake 25-30 minutes more until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Resting: Rest 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
▶Watch the Recipe
See the techniques in action with our step-by-step video guide
4Chef's Notes & Pairings
Chef's Notes
- All components must be completely cool before assembly to prevent soggy pastry
- Sharp knife is essential for clean slicing that shows the layers
- This is the ultimate special occasion dish - plan accordingly
Wine Pairing
Prestigious Burgundy or vintage Champagne - wines with the elegance and complexity worthy of this ultimate preparation.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: 625 calories, 42g protein, 38g fat, 28g carbohydrates. Ultimate luxury preparation.
