How To Make Wagyu Beef with Parsnip Puree, Glazed Vegetables & Red Wine Reduction
How To Prepare Red Wine Reduction
A luscious red wine reduction is the cornerstone of this dish, adding depth and elegance to the tender wagyu beef. Start by simmering dry red wine until it reduces by half, concentrating its flavor. Add beef stock and balsamic vinegar, then continue reducing until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Finish with butter for a silky, glossy texture. The result is a sauce with the perfect balance of acidity, richness, and a hint of sweetness.
How To Make Parsnip Puree
For a creamy, velvety base, this parsnip puree offers a sweet and nutty contrast to the savory beef. Boil parsnips until tender, then blend with infused cream steeped in thyme and bay leaf. The addition of butter and neutral oil emulsifies the puree, creating a smooth and luxurious consistency. The parsnip's natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the umami notes of the entire dish.
How To Cook Glazed Vegetables
Golden-browned turnips and tender white asparagus tips bring color and texture to the plate. Saute the turnips until caramelized, then glaze with chicken stock, butter, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Add asparagus tips for a fresh, slightly bitter bite. This method creates perfectly cooked vegetables with a beautiful sheen that complements the rest of the dish.
How To Cook Wagyu Beef
Wagyu beef is known for its exceptional marbling and buttery texture. Season the strip steak generously with kosher salt and sear it in a hot cast iron skillet until a caramelized crust forms. Baste with browned butter, garlic, and thyme to infuse the beef with rich, aromatic flavors. Let the steak rest before slicing it into uniform batons to showcase its perfect medium-rare interior.
How To Sauté Morel Mushrooms
Morel mushrooms add an earthy, savory note to this dish. Sauté them in browned butter until crispy around the edges, highlighting their unique honeycomb texture. Their umami profile enhances the complexity of the dish while offering a delightful bite alongside the creamy parsnip puree and tender vegetables.
How To Assemble The Dish
When plating, presentation is key. Spoon the parsnip puree onto one half of the plate and top with the glazed vegetables and crispy morels. On the other half, spread a generous layer of red wine reduction and neatly arrange the wagyu batons on top. Garnish with micro herbs for a final touch of elegance and freshness.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Wagyu Beef: The star of the dish, wagyu offers unmatched tenderness and marbling. If unavailable, a high-quality NY strip or ribeye can also work, though the luxuriousness of wagyu is hard to replicate.
- Parsnip: Adds sweetness and creaminess to the puree. You can substitute with carrots or celery root for a different but equally delicious twist.
- Turnips & White Asparagus: These vegetables provide a balance of earthy and fresh flavors. Feel free to swap with baby carrots, green asparagus, or even tender spring peas.
- Morel Mushrooms: Morels have a unique, earthy taste. If they are out of season, shiitake or cremini mushrooms can be used, but the presentation and flavor will differ slightly.
- Red Wine: Use a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir for a rich reduction. Avoid sweet wines, which may alter the sauce's balance.
Tips & Suggestions
- Perfect Searing: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the wagyu. A proper sear locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust.
- Creamy Parsnip Puree: Blending with infused cream ensures the puree is smooth and aromatic. For extra richness, finish with a drizzle of truffle oil.
- Make-Ahead Components: The red wine reduction and parsnip puree can be prepared in advance, allowing you to focus on the steak and vegetables when it's time to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the red wine reduction and parsnip puree up to two days in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge and reheat gently before serving. The glazed vegetables can also be prepped ahead and reheated in a skillet with a touch of butter.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but you can serve it with a light green salad or roasted fingerling potatoes for a more substantial meal.
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! A well-marbled ribeye or filet mignon would work beautifully with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your steak.