If you’re seeking a meat-free main course for Christmas, Lentil and Mushroom Wellington delivers.
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Lentil and mushroom Wellington recipe
Lentil and Mushroom Wellington is a delicious plant-based dish. It offers a satisfying vegan alternative to beef Wellington. The dish features a golden-brown, flaky puff pastry with a hearty filling of protein-rich lentils, mushrooms, and herbs.
Its appealing appearance and rich texture make it perfect for special occasions. The complex, satisfying flavors ensure you won’t miss traditional meat-based dishes like the baked stuffed chicken.
This vegan Wellington is perfect for festive occasions or as a hearty meal. Here is how to make the Lentil and Mushroom alternative Beef Wellington:
Easy Vegan Lentil and Mushroom Wellington
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils cooked
- 2 cups mushrooms a mix of cremini and shiitake works well, finely chopped
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 carrot grated
- 1 celery stalk finely chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed if frozen
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add mushrooms, carrot, and celery to the pan. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in cooked lentils, walnuts, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Spread Dijon mustard in the center, leaving about 2 inches on each side.
- Spoon the lentil and mushroom mixture onto the mustard-covered area.
- Fold the puff pastry over the filling, sealing the edges. You can crimp the edges with a fork to create a decorative pattern.
- Mix ground flaxseed with water to make a flaxseed egg. Brush the pastry with the flaxseed egg for a golden finish.
- Place the Wellington on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.
Nutrition
Pairing suggestions
Lentil and Mushroom Wellington can be paired with various dishes to enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal.
- Side Dishes
- Mashed potatoes create a creamy, hearty side for pairing with flaky pastries.
- Roasted root vegetables add sweetness and texture with carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes.
- Vegan stuffing boosts festive flavor with bread, herbs, and vegetables.
- Brussels sprouts add a crunchy texture and slight bitterness.
- Sautéed greens provide a fresh contrast with spinach, kale, or green beans.
- A crisp salad refreshes the meal with mixed greens, nuts, and tangy vinaigrette.
- Beverages
- A glass of red wine, like Pinot Noir or Merlot, pairs nicely with the dish’s earthy flavors.
- Cranberry juice complements umami flavors.
- Sparkling water with lemon or a cup of herbal tea makes a refreshing, alcohol-free choice.
- Ginger beer adds a spicy kick.
- Elderflower spritz adds a touch of elegance.
Variations
Lentil and mushroom Wellington can be adapted in numerous ways. Here are several popular variations and ideas:
- Filling Alternatives use different fillings:
- Spinach and Sundried Tomato Wellington adds spinach to the filling for color and sundried tomatoes for sweetness.
- Nutty Wellington adds walnuts for extra crunch and umami flavor to the filling.
- Seasonal Squash Wellington replaces mushrooms with seasonal squashes for a sweeter, autumn-friendly flavor.
- Herb Variations use fresh herbs like parsley or cayenne for an enhanced flavor profile.
- Pastry Options are for different diets:
- Gluten-free puff pastry is ideal for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Whole wheat pastry is a healthier option that still tastes delicious.
- Flavor Booster Versions use a splash of red wine, soy sauce, or a bit of mustard. This makes the filling richer.
Whether for a holiday dinner or a casual family meal, Vegan Lentil and Mushroom Wellington pleases everyone at the table.