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Flaky Ham and Cheese Puff Pastries

When it comes to comforting and indulgent snack options, few dishes can rival the delightful charm of ham and cheese puff pastries. Originating from classic French cuisine, these golden, flaky parcels are the epitome of culinary comfort. At Butter & Baggage, we take this timeless treat and infuse it with a British twist, perfect for afternoon tea or as a delightful addition to any gathering.

The Allure of Puff Pastry

Puff pastry, known for its remarkable flakiness and buttery taste, is a versatile pastry that serves as the backbone for countless recipes. The art of making perfect puff pastry lies in the delicate process of laminating dough – folding and rolling butter into the dough multiple times to create hundreds of layers. The result? A beautifully raised and flaky pastry that is incredibly satisfying to bite into.

While making puff pastry from scratch can be a time-consuming task, many bakers opt for high-quality shop-bought puff pastry for convenience without skimping on taste. At Butter & Baggage, we believe that great food should be accessible, which is why we’ve crafted a delicious flaky ham and cheese puff pastry recipe that anyone can master.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful pastries, you will need:

• Puff pastry: 500g (homemade or shop-bought)
• Cooked ham: 200g, finely chopped
• Cheese: 150g (preferably a combination of cheddar and Gruyère for depth of flavour)
• Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)
• Mustard: 1 tablespoon (Dijon works brilliantly)
• Pepper: to taste
• Fresh herbs: such as thyme or parsley, optional for an added flavour kick

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) and lining a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped ham and shredded cheese. Stir in the mustard and season with pepper. If you’re using fresh herbs, add them now for an aromatic touch.

3. Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 3mm thick. Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter to cut the pastry into squares (approximately 10cm x 10cm).

4. Assemble the Pastries: Place a generous spoonful of the ham and cheese filling onto the centre of each square. Fold the pastry over to form triangles and press down the edges with a fork to seal them securely. This not only keeps the filling intact but creates a lovely decorative edge.

5. Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg for a beautifully glossy finish.

6. Bake: Place the pastries on the prepared baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.

7. Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. These puff pastries are best enjoyed warm, where the melting cheese oozes deliciously with each bite.

Ideal Pairing Suggestions

These flaky ham and cheese puff pastries are wonderful on their own, but for a truly Yorkshire experience, consider serving them with a zesty tomato chutney or a light salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. They also pair beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a crisp glass of white wine for a more sophisticated touch.

Conclusion

Flaky ham and cheese puff pastries encapsulate the essence of comfort food with their delightful combination of rich flavours and crispy textures. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or simply craving a tasty snack, this recipe from Butter & Baggage is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner baker, and treat yourself to the irresistible taste of homemade puff pastry delights. Enjoy!