Introduction

Pâté Feuilleté à la Viande, or meat puff pastry, is a delightful dish that combines flaky pastry with a savory meat filling. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, parties, or simply as a comforting meal. It offers a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that can satisfy any appetite.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Puff pastry: 1 sheet
– Ground beef: 1 pound
– Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
– Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
– Carrot: 1 medium, diced
– Celery: 1 stalk, diced
– Mustard: 2 tablespoons
– Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon
– Thyme: 1 teaspoon, dried
– Salt: to taste
– Pepper: to taste
– Egg: 1, for egg wash

Prep Time

Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 25 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables and mixing the meat filling.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 30 minutes. Therefore, the total time for this dish is about 55 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings, making it an excellent choice for a small gathering or a family meal.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Meat Filling

In a sauté pan over medium heat, cook the onions in oil until they are soft and translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices. Once cooked, remove from heat and let cool.

Prepare the Dough

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Ensure it is about 1/8 inch thick. Cut it into two equal halves for the top and bottom layers.

Assemble the Pastry

Place one layer of the rolled-out puff pastry onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the cooled meat filling evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Brush the border with beaten egg for better sealing.

Add the Top Layer

Carefully place the second layer of puff pastry over the meat filling. Press down around the edges to seal securely. Use a fork to crimp the edges all around.

Make Vent Holes

Using a sharp knife, make several small slits on the top layer of pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.

Brush with Egg Wash

Brush the entire surface of the pastry with the beaten egg to achieve a golden color when baked.

Bake the Pastry

Preheat the oven to the recommended temperature. Bake the pastry until golden brown and puffed, typically around 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

Cool Before Serving

Once baked, remove the pastry from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the filling set and make it easier to cut.

Notes

Storage Instructions

Leftover meat pastry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Freezing Suggestions

Unbaked pastries can be frozen before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Variations

Feel free to customize the filling with vegetables, herbs, or different meats according to your preference.

Cook techniques

Making Puff Pastry

Puff pastry is a layered dough that creates a flaky texture when baked. It involves folding butter into a simple dough multiple times, known as lamination, to create distinct layers.

Cooking the Filling

For the beef filling, cook the meat until browned and ensure to season appropriately. Adding vegetables and spices enhances the flavor of the filling significantly.

Assembling the Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Cut the dough into the shape needed for the pastries and add the filling before sealing the edges carefully to avoid leakage during baking.

Baking Techniques

Preheat the oven to the required temperature to ensure even cooking. Bake until the pastry is golden brown and puffed, indicating that it is cooked through and has a desirable texture.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness before serving again.

FAQ

Can I use different types of meat for the filling?

Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein to suit your preferences.

Is it necessary to chill the pastry before baking?

Chilling the pastry helps it maintain its structure and encourages proper puffing during baking.

How long can I store the cooked pastries?

Cooked pastries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.

Can I make the pastry ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the puff pastry in advance. Ensure to wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

What can I serve with the puff pastry?

These pastries pair well with a variety of dips, sauces, or salads for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This delightful meat pie recipe is a perfect blend of flaky pastry and savory meat filling. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a satisfying snack. The aroma and flavor will surely impress your family and friends, making it a great addition to any gathering.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Pot Pie

Replace the meat filling with a variety of seasonal vegetables and a rich sauce for a hearty vegetarian option.

Cheese and Spinach Puffs

Fill the puff pastry with a mixture of cheese, spinach, and herbs for a tasty starter or appetizer.

Curried Chicken Turnovers

Add some spice by using curried chicken as a filling for a unique twist on the classic meat pie.

Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tart

Combine sautéed mushrooms and creamy goat cheese for a luxurious filling that can be served as a sophisticated appetizer.

Sweet Fruit Turnovers

For a dessert option, fill the pastry with seasonal fruits and a sprinkle of sugar, then bake until golden for a sweet treat.