### **Savory Puff Pastry with Ham**
#### **Introduction**
Savory puff pastry with ham is a delicious and versatile dish that marries the flakiness of buttery puff pastry with the savory richness of ham. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, these pastries offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The crisp, golden exterior of the puff pastry contrasts perfectly with the tender, savory filling, making each bite a mouthwatering experience.
#### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
Puff pastry, known for its delicate layers and flaky texture, has roots in European cuisine, particularly in French and Austrian baking traditions. The method of creating puff pastry dates back to the 17th century and was initially used to make sweet pastries. Over time, savory versions evolved, and puff pastry became a staple in savory dishes, including pies, tarts, and pastry-wrapped fillings. The combination of puff pastry with ham is widely appreciated in many countries, especially in Europe, where cured meats like ham are common in pastries and sandwiches. The savory puff pastry with ham captures the essence of comfort food in a portable, elegant form.
#### **Ingredients and Quantity**
– **For the Savory Puff Pastry with Ham:**
– 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
– 4 oz (about 1/2 cup) sliced ham (preferably deli-style or leftover cooked ham)
– 4 oz (about 1/2 cup) grated cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or Gruyère work well)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– Fresh herbs (optional, such as thyme or parsley)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– **Optional Additions:**
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese or ricotta cheese for a creamy filling
– Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions for added depth of flavor
– A drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for a sweet-savory contrast
#### **Tips for Success**
1. **Use Cold Puff Pastry:** For the flakiest result, ensure that your puff pastry is cold when working with it. This helps the layers separate and rise during baking.
2. **Roll the Pastry Evenly:** When rolling out the puff pastry, keep it as even as possible to ensure uniform cooking. If the edges are too thick, they might not cook through properly.
3. **Don’t Overfill:** Be careful not to overfill the puff pastry with ham and cheese. Overstuffing can cause the pastry to burst open or create uneven cooking.
4. **Egg Wash:** Brushing the top of the puff pastry with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water or milk) will give your pastries a golden, glossy finish.
5. **Bake on a Parchment Paper Lined Sheet:** This will help prevent sticking and ensure the pastry cooks evenly.
#### **Instructions**
1. **Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. **Prepare the puff pastry:** Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If you are using store-bought pastry, unfold it and trim the edges to make a rectangle or square.
3. **Assemble the filling:** Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (if using) on the pastry. Then, layer the sliced ham evenly on top, followed by the grated cheese. If you’re adding any optional ingredients like sautéed spinach or cream cheese, spread them out evenly as well.
4. **Fold the pastry:** Fold the pastry over the filling to create a parcel or roll it up into a log. Seal the edges by pressing them together gently with a fork or pinching them together with your fingers.
5. **Egg wash:** Beat the egg with a tablespoon of water or milk, then brush it over the top of the pastry to ensure it bakes to a golden, glossy finish.
6. **Bake:** Place the pastry on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
7. **Serve:** Allow the savory puff pastry to cool slightly before slicing into portions. Serve warm.
#### **Description**
Savory puff pastry with ham is a perfect blend of buttery, flaky pastry and savory, salty ham. The pastry puffs up beautifully in the oven, creating a golden exterior that gives way to a soft, flavorful filling. The cheese melts perfectly into the ham, while the Dijon mustard adds a hint of tang, balancing the richness of the dish. Each bite is a satisfying combination of textures, with the crisp outer layer and the savory inner filling offering a delightful contrast.
#### **Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)**
– **Calories:** 250
– **Protein:** 8g
– **Carbohydrates:** 20g
– **Fiber:** 1g
– **Sugars:** 1g
– **Fat:** 17g
– **Saturated Fat:** 7g
– **Cholesterol:** 55mg
– **Sodium:** 400mg
– **Vitamin A:** 4%
– **Vitamin C:** 0%
– **Calcium:** 6%
– **Iron:** 8%
**Note:** Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
#### **Conclusion**
Savory puff pastry with ham is a wonderfully easy-to-make dish that delivers incredible flavor in every bite. The combination of flaky pastry, rich ham, and melted cheese is a perfect example of comfort food elevated with just a few simple ingredients. It’s ideal for a quick snack, a light lunch, or as a part of a larger appetizer spread.
#### **Recommendation**
For a healthier version, consider using whole-wheat puff pastry or reducing the amount of cheese. You can also swap out the ham for leaner proteins like turkey or chicken. For added freshness, serve with a light salad or steamed vegetables on the side. This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it an excellent option for entertaining or meal prep. Embrace the indulgence of puff pastry with ham while enjoying the flexibility to add your own creative touches!