There’s something magical about puff pastry—it’s flaky, buttery, and transforms even the simplest ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you’re baking savory pastries or sweet treats, puff pastry serves as the perfect base to hold together a variety of delicious fillings. In this recipe, we’ll explore how to create a savory ham and cheese puff pastry, enhanced with the zesty kick of mustard and the crunchy texture of almonds. This dish combines the buttery richness of puff pastry with the savory flavors of ham, cheese, and the subtle depth of garlic, creating a treat that’s both comforting and refined.
This recipe is perfect for various occasions. You can serve it as an appetizer at a dinner party, as part of a casual lunch, or even as a snack. The combination of mustard and ham creates a harmonious balance of tangy and savory, while the melted cheese brings a creamy, satisfying texture. The almonds provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft layers of puff pastry. The cherry tomatoes not only add a burst of color but also offer a slight sweetness that complements the savory elements of the dish.
As with many timeless recipes, this savory puff pastry is incredibly versatile and easy to modify based on your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. While ham and cheese are a classic pairing, you can easily swap them for other ingredients such as chicken, spinach, or even mushrooms. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for many different occasions and dietary preferences. It’s an easy, no-fuss recipe that packs big flavor, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the detailed steps to make this savory puff pastry from scratch. We’ll explore each ingredient, how to prepare it, and tips to ensure that the pastry turns out perfectly flaky and golden every time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, this recipe will help you master the art of making delicious puff pastry dishes that can be customized to suit your tastes.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For this savory puff pastry with ham, cheese, mustard, and almonds, you will need the following ingredients:
- 300g (11 oz) Puff Pastry – Puff pastry is the star of the show here, providing the perfect flaky and buttery texture that holds the filling. You can either buy ready-made puff pastry or make your own, but for ease and convenience, pre-made works just as well.
- 30g (1.1 oz) Mustard – Mustard adds a tangy, spicy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese and ham. It also pairs beautifully with the almonds and provides a zesty kick that elevates the overall dish.
- 150g (5.3 oz) Ham – Ham is the main protein in this recipe, providing a savory, salty flavor. It’s best to use a quality deli ham, such as smoked or honey ham, for a richer taste.
- 200g (7.1 oz) Butter – Butter is essential for the puff pastry, both for its flakiness and rich flavor. It will also be used to sauté the garlic and help in the assembly of the pastry.
- 150g (5.3 oz) Cheese – A good melting cheese like mozzarella or cheddar works well in this recipe. The cheese adds creaminess and helps to bind the other ingredients together, creating a smooth texture inside the pastry.
- 1 Egg – The egg will be used to brush the pastry before baking, giving it a beautiful golden-brown color and a glossy finish.
- 50g (1.8 oz) Almonds – Almonds add a delightful crunch to the dish, offering a contrast to the soft and creamy filling. You can use whole almonds or chopped almonds for added texture.
- 100g (3.5 oz) Cherry Tomatoes – Cherry tomatoes are used to garnish the pastry. Their bright color adds visual appeal, and their slightly sweet flavor balances the savory filling.
- 40g (1.4 oz) Parmesan – Grated Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the savory taste of the dish and complements the creaminess of the cheese filling.
- 50ml (1.7 fl oz) Olive Oil – Olive oil will be used for sautéing the garlic, as well as drizzling over the finished pastry for added flavor.
- 2g (0.1 oz) Black Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper adds a mild spice to the filling, rounding out the flavors.
- 4g (0.1 oz) Salt – A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of the cheese, ham, and mustard, making the filling savory and well-seasoned.
- 5g (0.2 oz) Garlic – Garlic is sautéed in olive oil to add a fragrant depth of flavor to the filling. It blends beautifully with the other ingredients, offering an aromatic kick.
Preparation Steps:
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s walk through the process of making this savory puff pastry step by step. Follow these instructions for a delicious and visually stunning result.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the pastry.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If using store-bought puff pastry, make sure it’s thawed if it was frozen.
- Roll the pastry to about 1/8 inch thick, or as per your preferred size. Cut it into rectangular or square pieces, depending on the shape you want your pastry to take.
- Prepare the Garlic and Mustard Mixture:
- In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the mustard to the pan with the garlic and stir well, allowing it to warm up and release its flavors.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a separate bowl, combine the chopped ham, cheese (grated or sliced), Parmesan, and almonds. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add the garlic and mustard mixture to the bowl and stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Assemble the Pastry:
- Place a spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture onto each piece of rolled-out puff pastry. Be sure to leave a little space around the edges.
- Fold the pastry over the filling, creating a pocket or turnover. Press the edges firmly to seal them, using a fork to crimp the edges if necessary.
- Brush with Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg and lightly brush it over the top of each pastry. This will give the puff pastry a beautiful golden color once baked.
- Bake the Pastry:
- Place the assembled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
- Prepare the Tomatoes:
- While the pastry is baking, slice the cherry tomatoes in half and set them aside. You will use them as a garnish for the finished dish.
- Serving the Pastry:
- Once the pastries are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and serve immediately, either as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger meal.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Total Time:
- 50 minutes
Calories per Serving:
Each pastry contains approximately 300-350 kcal, depending on the size of the pastry and the specific ingredients used. The recipe yields about 6-8 servings, depending on the size of each pastry.
Why This Recipe is Timeless:
This savory puff pastry with ham, cheese, mustard, and almonds is a timeless dish because it combines classic flavors in a way that is both simple and elegant. Puff pastry is universally loved for its buttery, flaky texture, and it works equally well in both savory and sweet applications. By pairing it with ham, cheese, and the tangy kick of mustard, this recipe highlights a blend of familiar ingredients that people have enjoyed for centuries.
Moreover, this recipe allows for easy customization, which ensures that it remains relevant to different tastes and dietary preferences. You can easily swap the ham for turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like spinach or mushrooms, making this dish suitable for any occasion. Its versatility, combined with its mouthwatering flavors, ensures that this recipe will never go out of style.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 300–350 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 50mg
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the puff pastry and filling ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply brush with the egg wash and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While mozzarella or cheddar work well in this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or even brie for a more complex flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftover pastries should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the assembled but unbaked pastries for up to a month, then bake them directly from the freezer.
Tips for Making Perfect Pastries:
- Use Cold Puff Pastry: Cold puff pastry is key to achieving that signature flaky texture. If your pastry becomes too warm during handling, place it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to cool down before baking.
- Seal the Edges Well: Make sure the edges of the puff pastry are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack the filling in tightly, avoid overstuffing the pastries. Too much filling can make it difficult to seal and could cause the pastry to burst during baking.
- Brush with Egg Wash: For a golden, glossy finish, be sure to brush the top of the pastry with egg wash before baking.
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 10 minutes to restore their crispness.
- To freeze the pastries, place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until they are solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this savory ham and cheese puff pastry is a dish that combines simplicity and sophistication. With just a few ingredients, you can create a pastry that’s perfect for any occasion. The buttery layers of puff pastry, paired with the rich filling of ham, cheese, and mustard, offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will leave everyone craving more.
Whether you’re serving it at a party, enjoying it with a salad for lunch, or simply savoring it on a cozy evening at home, this pastry is sure to impress. The versatility of the recipe ensures that you can make it your own by experimenting with different fillings, cheeses, or toppings. It’s a recipe that’s both timeless and adaptable, one that will remain a staple in your culinary repertoire for years to come.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in these delectable savory puff pastries. Bon appétit!