The Puff Pastry Sensation That’s Driving the World Crazy

INGREDIENTS

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For the Puff Pastry:

500g puff pastry

50g mustard

200g ham

200g cheese (grated or thinly sliced)

1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Béchamel Sauce:

30g butter

25g flour

300ml milk

4g nutmeg

5g black pepper

10g salt

30g grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish:

40g pickled cucumbers (finely chopped)

Construction

1. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
   • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
   • Add flour and whisk until the mixture turns slightly golden (a roux).
   • Gradually add milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
   • Season with nutmeg, black pepper, and salt.
   • Stir until thickened, then add grated Parmesan cheese. Set aside to cool.
2. Assemble the Pastry:
   • Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
   • Spread a thin layer of mustard across the pastry.
   • Add a layer of ham, followed by cheese. Optionally, spread a thin layer of béchamel over the cheese.
   • Fold or layer the pastry into the desired shape (rectangular pockets, turnovers, or pinwheels). Seal the edges.
3. Egg Wash:
   • Beat the egg and brush it over the pastry to give it a golden, glossy finish when baked.
4. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
   • Place the assembled pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and puffed.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace ham with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a layer of chili flakes or a spicy mustard.
3. Meat Substitutions: Use turkey, chicken, or prosciutto instead of ham.
4. Cheese Alternatives: Swap with Swiss cheese, Gruyère, or even mozzarella for a milder flavor.
5. Open-Faced Style: Use the puff pastry as a tart base, layering the ingredients on top and baking as a flat tart.

Tips

1. Chill the Pastry: Keep the puff pastry cold to ensure it puffs up properly during baking.
2. Avoid Overfilling: Too much filling can cause the pastry to split or leak.
3. Seal Edges Well: Use water or egg wash to seal the edges tightly to avoid spilling during baking.
4. Reheat Smartly: Reheat leftovers in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
5. Customize Shapes: Cut the pastry into various shapes like triangles, squares, or rounds to suit the occasion.

This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an appetizer for gatherings.