Vegetables Wellington Recipe

Name: Vegetables Wellington
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 140 min
Total time: 230 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 6 (6 to 8 ounce) sweet potatoes, peeled; 1 tablespoon melted butter; 1 teaspoon salt, divided; 3/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 1/2 cups low sodium vegetable broth; 1/2 cup wild rice; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup butter; 1 pound fresh button mushrooms, finely chopped; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1/2 cup dry sherry or low sodium vegetable broth; 1/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon and/or parsley; 3 ounce goat cheese, crumbled; 1 (17.3 ounce) package frozen puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed; Flour, for dusting; 1 egg, lightly beaten; 1 tablespoon water; 1 (12 ounce) jar mushroom gravy, warmed, for serving

Cook Time: 140 minutes

Ingredients

6 (6 to 8 ounce) sweet potatoes, peeled
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 teaspoon salt, divided
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1/2 cup wild rice
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup butter
1 pound fresh button mushrooms, finely chopped
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup dry sherry or low-sodium vegetable broth
1/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon and/or parsley
3 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
1 (17.3 ounce) package frozen puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
1 cup flour, for dusting
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon water
1 (12 ounce) jar mushroom gravy, warmed, for serving

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Drizzle sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and pepper. Wrap each sweet potato in foil and arrange them on a 10x15-inch rimmed baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until tender. Once done, allow the sweet potatoes to cool completely for about 1 hour.

Step 2: While the potatoes are cooling, prepare the rice. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of vegetable broth, rice, garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Drain any excess water, and set the rice aside.

Step 3: In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and onions. Stir occasionally and cook until the mushrooms have released their moisture, browned, and the onions are tender, about 10-12 minutes. Add the sherry and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until evaporated. Stir in the tarragon, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper. Add the rice mixture and crumbled goat cheese, stirring to combine. Spread the filling evenly on a baking sheet and allow it to cool completely.

Step 4: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) again. Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut each sheet into quarters to make 8 squares. Roll each square into a 6 1/2-inch square. Place about 1/3 cup of the mushroom and rice mixture in the center of each square, then top each with a sweet potato.

Step 5: Line a clean baking sheet with foil. In a small bowl, beat together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the edges of each puff pastry square with the egg wash, then bring up the corners of the pastry and stretch them over the sweet potatoes. Pinch the edges to seal. Arrange the bundles seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Using the remaining pastry, cut decorative shapes and place them on top of the bundles. Brush the pastry shapes with the remaining egg wash to adhere. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. For best results, use an instant-read thermometer insert it into the center of the bundles. The thermometer should register at least 165F (74C).

Step 7: Let the bundles stand for 10 minutes before serving. Serve with the warmed mushroom gravy on the side.

Variation Tips

Vegan Version: Replace butter with olive oil, omit goat cheese, and use unsweetened plant-based milk in place of the egg wash.
Meaty Version: Replace the sweet potatoes with 6 beef tenderloin filets (6-8 ounces each). Season and sear the fillets in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil for about 3 minutes, then let them rest. Top the filling with a fillet before continuing with the pastry assembly. Roast in a 450F (230C) oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the desired doneness is reached (135F for medium-rare).

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 960
Total Fat: 48g (61% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 14g (71% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 68mg (23% Daily Value)
Sodium: 1055mg (46% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 114g (42% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 12g (43% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 19g
Protein: 21g (41% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 52mg (58% Daily Value)
Calcium: 155mg (12% Daily Value)
Iron: 7mg (40% Daily Value)
Potassium: 1681mg (36% Daily Value)

The History and Origins of Vegetables Wellington

Vegetables Wellington is a creative vegetarian adaptation of the classic Beef Wellington, which dates back to early 19th century England. The original dish is named after Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington, who was celebrated for his victory at the Battle of Waterloo. While the beef version is a luxurious centerpiece of British cuisine, the vegetable variant emerged much later, as vegetarianism gained popularity in Europe and North America during the 20th century. This modern interpretation replaces meat with hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes and mushrooms, while retaining the signature puff pastry wrapping and rich, savory flavors that define a Wellington.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

Vegetables Wellington is most commonly associated with British cuisine but has evolved in international kitchens. In the United Kingdom, chefs often incorporate root vegetables such as parsnips, carrots, or turnips alongside mushrooms for a seasonal touch. In the United States, its common to include exotic or nutty ingredients such as wild rice, goat cheese, or herbs like tarragon and parsley. The adaptability of the filling allows chefs to highlight local produce, making it a versatile dish for holiday tables or gourmet vegetarian menus. Puff pastry remains a constant, providing the golden, flaky exterior that is both visually appealing and texturally satisfying.

How Vegetables Wellington Differs from Similar Dishes

While similar in concept to other wrapped or baked vegetable dishes, Vegetables Wellington is distinct in its layered construction. Unlike a simple vegetable tart, the Wellington encases the filling completely in puff pastry, sealing in moisture and flavor. It differs from a pot pie in that it uses finely chopped and carefully seasoned ingredients, often accompanied by cheese or rice, rather than a loose, stew-like filling. This structure gives each serving an elegant, individual presentation, making it ideal for formal dining or festive occasions.

Typical Serving Occasions

Vegetables Wellington is traditionally served as a main course during special occasions, including Christmas, Thanksgiving, or vegetarian holiday feasts. Its impressive presentation makes it a popular choice for dinner parties and gourmet vegetarian menus. The dish is usually paired with mushroom gravy, roasted vegetables, or a light salad, which complements the richness of the pastry and earthy flavors of the filling. Because it can be prepared in advance and baked before serving, it is also convenient for large gatherings.

Interesting Facts About Vegetables Wellington

The vegetarian version allows for creative substitutions, making it suitable for vegan diets by replacing butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
Sweet potatoes are a popular filling choice because they provide natural sweetness and a firm texture that holds up well during baking.
The dish demonstrates the evolution of classic recipes to accommodate modern dietary preferences without sacrificing elegance or flavor.
Puff pastry, originally developed in France, adds a unique crispiness that contrasts with the soft, flavorful vegetable filling.
Despite its luxurious appearance, Vegetables Wellington can be prepared at home with simple ingredients, proving that gourmet meals dont always require meat or complex techniques.

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FAQ about Vegetables Wellington Recipe

Leftover Vegetables Wellington should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Yes, Vegetables Wellington can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap each bundle in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.

Yes, you can prepare the filling and sweet potatoes up to 5 days in advance. Store the filling in the fridge and assemble the Wellington just before baking. If you’ve already assembled it, you can refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.

Bake the Vegetables Wellington in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. You can check the temperature inside with an instant-read thermometer— it should reach 165°F (74°C).

Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or carrots in place of mushrooms and sweet potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times to ensure the vegetables are tender before wrapping in the puff pastry.

If you don't have goat cheese or prefer a vegan option, you can substitute with vegan cheese, cream cheese, or even a ricotta-style dairy product. Adjust the seasoning as needed to maintain flavor.

Yes, to make this recipe vegan, simply replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute, omit the goat cheese, and use a plant-based milk for the egg wash or omit it entirely.

To prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy, make sure the filling is completely cooled before wrapping it in the pastry. Also, ensure that any excess moisture from the vegetables is removed before assembling the Wellington.

Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to use a high-quality, plant-based puff pastry if you're making a vegan version.

Vegetables Wellington pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a rich mushroom gravy for extra flavor.

Comments

Jennifer Moore

12/26/2024 02:23:25 AM

Can’t wait to make it again tomorrow.

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