There’s something about puff pastry that makes it the star of any dish. Whether it’s the golden, flaky layers or the way it pairs perfectly with both savory and sweet fillings, puff pastry is a kitchen staple that never disappoints. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s been taking the world by storm: a savory puff pastry snack filled with ham, cheese, and a rich béchamel sauce. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, and once you try it, you’ll understand why everyone is going crazy for it!
Ingredients
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)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). This ensures the oven is hot enough to puff the pastry to perfection.
- Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry to your desired thickness. If you like a lighter, flakier texture, keep it thinner. For a heartier bite, roll it out a bit thicker.
- Spread the Mustard: Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, evenly spread 50g of mustard over the surface of the puff pastry. This adds a subtle tang that perfectly complements the richness of the other ingredients.
2. Add the Fillings:
- Layer the Ham: Arrange 200g of ham evenly over the mustard-covered pastry. Feel free to use your favorite type of ham—whether it’s honey-glazed, smoked, or classic deli ham, each brings a unique flavor.
- Add the Cheese: Next, sprinkle 200g of grated or thinly sliced cheese over the ham. A combination of cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Swiss works beautifully, adding both creaminess and a slight sharpness.