Introduction

Feuilletés au jambon et poireaux are delicious, flaky pastries that combine the savory flavors of ham and leeks. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a delightful appetizer, these pastries are easy to make and cater to various tastes. This dish showcases the wonderful marriage of tender leeks and rich ham, enveloped in a buttery puff pastry that will impress your family and friends alike.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Puff pastry – 1 sheet
Ham – 200 grams, diced
Leeks – 2 medium, cleaned and sliced
Cream – 100 ml
Egg – 1, beaten for egg wash
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (for sautéing)

Prep Time

The preparation for these feuilletés takes approximately 15 minutes. This includes cleaning and slicing the leeks and dicing the ham, ensuring everything is ready for cooking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 25 minutes, including baking until golden brown. In total, the preparation and cooking process will take about 40 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it an ideal choice for small gatherings or family meals. Enjoy the crispy texture and fantastic flavors of homemade feuilletés au jambon et poireaux!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Leeks

Clean the leeks thoroughly under cold water. Remove any damaged outer layers and trim the ends. Cut the leeks into thin slices.

Step 2: Sauté the Leeks

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add the Ham

Once the leeks are cooked, add diced ham to the skillet. Cook together for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring continuously until the ham is heated through.

Step 4: Prepare the Pastry

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Cut out squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.

Step 5: Fill the Pastry

Place a spoonful of the leek and ham mixture in the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill.

Step 6: Seal the Pastry

Fold the pastry over the filling to create a pocket. Press the edges firmly to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

Step 7: Bake the Pastry

Transfer the filled pastries to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a delightful appetizer or main dish.

Notes

Note 1: Pastry Variations

You can substitute the puff pastry with brick pastry for a lighter version or use whole wheat pastry for a healthier option.

Note 2: Storage

These pastries can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness before serving.

Note 3: Additional Ingredients

Feel free to experiment by adding cheese or herbs for extra flavor. Gruyère or cheddar work particularly well with the ham and leeks.

Note 4: Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad or a dipping sauce for a complete meal experience.

Cook techniques

Rolling Pastry

Using a rolling pin, gently roll out the pastry dough into an even thickness, ensuring it is large enough to wrap around the filling completely.

Preparing Leeks

Clean the leeks thoroughly by slicing them lengthwise and rinsing under cold water to remove any dirt. Slice them into thin rings for even cooking.

Cooking Filling

Sauté the chopped leeks in a pan with a bit of oil or butter until they become tender and slightly caramelized, enhancing their sweetness.

Assembling Pastries

Place the filling mixture onto the pastry sheet and fold over the dough, sealing the edges well to prevent any leaks during baking.

Baking

Preheat the oven and bake the filled pastries until they are golden brown and flaky, ensuring that the pastry is cooked through and the filling is hot.

FAQ

Can I freeze the assembled pastries before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled pastries. Allow them to thaw before baking for best results.

What can I substitute for leeks?

You can use green onions or shallots as alternatives, though the flavor will differ slightly.

How do I know when the pastries are done baking?

The pastries should be golden brown on top and the filling should be hot throughout.

Can I make the dough from scratch?

Absolutely! Homemade pastry dough can add a fresh touch to the recipe.

What other fillings can I use?

You can experiment with fillings such as spinach and cheese, mushrooms, or any other preferred ingredients.

Conclusion

The preparation of feuilletés au jambon et poireaux is not only easy but also allows for a delightful blend of flavors that come together beautifully. This dish is perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends, showcasing versatility and satisfaction in every bite. By incorporating ham and leeks into flaky pastry, you create a savory treat that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

More recipes suggestions and combination

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