If you’re looking for a vegetarian showpiece for your Christmas dinner table, this Christmas Veggie Wellington delivers festive flavour, beautiful presentation, and a satisfying texture that even meat lovers will enjoy. Wrapped in flaky puff pastry and packed with savoury rice and mushroom filling, it’s a delicious, joyful alternative to traditional Christmas mains.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Filling
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Cooked basmati rice with a pinch of turmeric
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 onion, finely chopped
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600g brown mushrooms, sliced
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Melted butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
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Fresh parsley and tarragon
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Dried cranberries
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2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
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Salt and black pepper
For the Pastry
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Ready-rolled puff pastry sheet
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Beaten egg for brushing
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Sesame seeds (optional)
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Vegetarian gravy to serve
This combination of ingredients builds layers of flavour and texture that make this Wellington both hearty and festive. git.macropus.org
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to around 200 °C (400 °F). This high initial heat ensures the pastry puffs up crisp and golden.
2. Make the Filling
Heat melted butter or oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms and cook until soft and lightly caramelised. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. git.macropus.org
3. Combine Flavours
In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, lemon zest, herbs, cranberries, and chopped eggs into the cooled mushroom mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper. This filling should be flavourful, moist but not soggy.
4. Assemble the Wellington
Lay the puff pastry on a clean surface. Spoon the veggie filling down the centre in a long line. Fold the pastry over the filling, sealing the edges with beaten egg. Brush the top with more egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the Wellington on a baking tray and bake for 30 minutes or until the pastry is crisp and deeply golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. git.macropus.org
6. Serve with Style
Slice the Wellington and serve it warm with rich vegetarian gravy and your favourite holiday sides. Roast potatoes, glazed carrots, and Brussels sprouts pair beautifully.
🍷 Pairing & Serving Suggestions
This Wellington makes an excellent centrepiece. Consider serving it with:
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Honey-roasted parsnips
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Cranberry sauce or red wine gravy
These sides balance crisp pastry and rich filling with vibrant flavours, perfect for a Christmas feast.
🌱 Tips for Success
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Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day ahead to save time on Christmas Day.
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Vegan Swap: Replace eggs with a flax “egg” and choose vegan puff pastry.
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Texture Boost: Add toasted nuts or chestnuts for extra crunch and festive flavour.
