Pastries filled with mushrooms and ham

Mushroom and ham pastries – a perfect delicacy for any occasion! Whether you want to impress guests at a party, surprise your loved ones, or simply indulge in a delicious appetizer, these pastries are the ideal choice. With a golden, slightly crispy crust and a rich filling, every bite is an explosion of flavors. Plus, the recipe is easy to make and can be adapted to your preferences.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 60 appetizers

Necessary ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 500 g high-quality flour
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 150 ml lukewarm milk
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 50 g butter (soft, at room temperature)

*For the filling:*
- 1 medium onion
- 1 can of mushrooms (approximately 400 g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 250 g ham (preferably smoked)
- 100 g smoked cheese (grated)

*For brushing:*
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- Salt (a pinch)
- Sesame and caraway seeds (optional)
- Grated cheese (for decoration)

The story of the recipe:

Pastries have a rich and interesting history, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. They have evolved over time, becoming a popular appetizer due to their versatility and delicious taste. The recipe we present today is a combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients, offering a perfect balance between the crispy texture of the dough and the rich filling.

Preparing the dough:

1. Start by preparing the leaven. In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, fresh yeast, sugar, and a tablespoon of flour. Mix well and let it rise for 10-15 minutes until bubbles form on the surface. This is an essential step to achieve a fluffy dough.

2. In a large bowl, add the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg, soft butter, and the risen leaven. Use your hands to knead the dough, adding milk or flour as needed until you obtain an elastic dough that no longer sticks to your fingers.

3. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about an hour or until it doubles in size.

Preparing the filling:

1. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Clean the onion and chop it finely. Heat the oil in a pan and add the onion, cooking until it becomes translucent.

2. Drain the mushrooms from the can and chop them finely (you can use a food processor for quick chopping). Add the mushrooms to the pan with the onion and cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly.

3. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika, and if desired, you can add crushed garlic for extra flavor. Let the filling cool.

4. In another bowl, cut the ham into small cubes and mix it with the mushroom filling.

Forming the pastries:

1. After the dough has risen, sprinkle flour on the work surface and roll it out into a thin sheet. Use a cup or pastry cutter to cut out circular shapes.

2. Place a teaspoon of the mushroom and ham filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough in half and press the edges with a fork dipped in beaten egg to seal them well.

3. From the remaining dough, you can form small crescents or other interesting shapes filled with the leftover filling.

Baking:

1. Arrange the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush them with beaten egg to achieve a golden and beautiful crust. You can sprinkle sesame or caraway seeds on top for extra flavor and decorative appearance.

2. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the pastries for 25-30 minutes or until they become golden and crispy. The aromas will fill the house and make you eagerly await to savor them!

Serving suggestions and combinations:

These pastries are perfect as appetizers at a party, but they can also be served as a snack at the office or on a picnic. You can pair them with a fresh green salad or a garlic yogurt sauce to enhance the flavor. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a cold beer pairs wonderfully with these delicious pastries.

Tips and useful advice:

- If you want to save time, you can use ready-made pastry dough, but the homemade dough recipe is much tastier.
- Experiment with different fillings, such as feta cheese, spinach, or roasted vegetables, to create unique combinations.
- The pastries can be easily frozen, so you can prepare a larger batch to enjoy in the following days.
- Don't forget to play with spices! A pinch of marjoram or oregano can completely transform the flavor of your pastries.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to follow the proportions indicated on the package.

2. What can I use instead of ham?
You can use bacon, cooked chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

3. How can I make the pastries less greasy?
You can bake the pastries without brushing them with egg, but you will lose some of their golden and glossy appearance.

4. How can I keep them fresh for longer?
The pastries keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and in the freezer, they can last up to 3 months.

These mushroom and ham pastries are an excellent choice for any occasion, and with a little passion and patience, you will achieve a delicious result. Don't forget to enjoy the cooking process and share these treats with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!