Pork Wellington: A Delectable Twist on a Classic Favorite
When it comes to elegant dining experiences, few dishes can rival the rich flavors and impressive presentation of a Wellington. While the traditional Beef Wellington holds a special place in my heart, this Pork Wellington recipe—introduced to me by a dear friend during a nostalgic visit—has taken my culinary affections to new heights. It is a delightful dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also makes for a stunning centerpiece when entertaining guests. The combination of succulent pork tenderloin enveloped in layers of savory prosciutto and creamy boursin cheese, all encased in flaky puff pastry, results in a dish that is simply out of this world.
Recipe Overview
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Category: Pork
- Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5 based on 8 reviews)
- Calories: 826.6 per serving
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | Pork tenderloins |
| 4 | Ounces of boursin cheese |
| 1 | Tablespoon of olive oil |
| 6 | Slices of prosciutto |
| 2 | Sheets of puff pastry |
| 1 | Egg (for egg wash) |
| 1 | Tablespoon of water |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 826.6 |
| Total Fat | 54.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 101.8 mg |
| Sodium | 368 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 55.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Protein | 28.1 g |
Instructions
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Preparation of Pork Tenderloins: Begin by trimming off any silverskin from the pork tenderloins; if you have the tail end, feel free to reserve it for another delicious dish. Once trimmed, carefully butterfly the tenderloins by making a 1-inch deep incision down the length of each, ensuring not to cut all the way through. This technique will create a pocket that you will stuff with half of the boursin cheese.
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Wrapping in Prosciutto: Once the tenderloins are prepared, take the remaining boursin cheese and gently stuff each butterflied tenderloin. Following this, take the prosciutto slices and wrap them around each tenderloin, ensuring that the pork is completely encased in the savory ham, which will contribute both flavor and moisture during cooking.
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Searing the Pork: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the wrapped tenderloins in the skillet, searing them for about 5 to 8 minutes. You want the prosciutto to turn golden brown and crisp on all sides, adding a delightful texture to the dish.
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Chilling the Pork: After searing, remove the tenderloins from the skillet and allow them to chill thoroughly. This step is crucial, as it will help the flavors meld together and ensure a firmer filling when wrapped in pastry.
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Wrapping in Puff Pastry: Once cooled, take the puff pastry sheets and roll them out on a lightly floured surface if needed. Wrap each seared tenderloin in the puff pastry, ensuring that they are fully encased. Transfer the wrapped Wellingtons to a parchment-lined baking sheet to catch any drips and promote even baking.
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Egg Wash and Decoration: To achieve a beautiful golden crust, beat the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the puff pastry, ensuring even coverage. If you feel creative, you can cut out decorative shapes from the leftover pastry scraps and arrange them on top of the Wellingtons for an elegant touch.
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Chilling Again: Once the Wellingtons are brushed with the egg wash, cover them with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step can be extended up to 24 hours if you wish to prepare ahead of time.
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Baking the Wellingtons: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once preheated, remove the plastic wrap from the Wellingtons and place them in the lower third of the oven. Bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. For an extra glossy finish, you can brush them with more egg wash just before placing them in the oven.
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Resting and Slicing: Once baked to perfection, allow the Pork Wellingtons to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the pork. When slicing, be mindful to discard the ends, as these will primarily consist of dough and provide little in terms of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Pork Wellington pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as garlic mashed potatoes or a vibrant green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A rich red wine sauce or a tangy mustard dip can also enhance the dish, adding another layer of flavor that complements the savory pork and creamy cheese.
With its impressive presentation and mouthwatering flavors, this Pork Wellington is sure to impress your guests and make any meal feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, this dish is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a delightful culinary experience. Enjoy!
