Indulge in the art of pastry-making with these delightful hand-rolled crispy pastries. Perfect for any occasion, these pastries are a symphony of flaky layers, a burst of flavor, and a satisfying crunch. Whether served as an appetizer, dessert, or a delightful snack, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create pastries that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure!
Ingredients:
For the Pastry Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 1/2 cup cooked spinach, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped cooked chicken or ham (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it.
- Form the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, combine the grated cheese, cooked spinach (if using), chopped chicken or ham (if using), and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cut the rolled-out dough into squares or circles, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
Step 4: Assemble the Pastries
- Place a generous spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough square or circle.
- Fold the pastry over to form a triangle or half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for added design and to ensure they’re sealed properly.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
- In a small bowl, combine the beaten egg and milk to create the egg wash.
- Brush the tops of the pastries with the egg wash for a golden finish.
- Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
- Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or a delightful addition to your meal. Enjoy the crispy, flaky goodness!