Puff pastry flowers with a mix of vegetables and minced meat

Puff pastry flowers with a mix of vegetables and minced meat

If you are looking for a recipe that impresses both in appearance and taste, you have come to the right place! These puff pastry flowers with minced meat and vegetables are not only a visual delight but also an explosion of flavors that will delight the taste buds of your loved ones. I will guide you step by step on how to prepare them, sharing some tips and tricks to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 8 flowers

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 medium onions
- 2 carrots
- 1 bell pepper (any color you prefer)
- 1 can of canned mushrooms (350 gr)
- 500 gr minced meat (a mix of pork and beef is ideal)
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/2 pack of puff pastry (about 250 gr)
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 2 eggs
- A little ketchup (optional, for serving)
- Ground pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- A little oil for sautéing

Recipe history:
Recipes that combine dough with fillings of meat and vegetables have a long-standing tradition in the cuisine of many cultures, with deep roots in global gastronomy. These dishes are often associated with celebrations and special occasions, given their elegant appearance and savory taste make them stars of the table.

Step by step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling and finely chopping the onions, carrots, and bell pepper. These vegetables will add a special flavor to the mixture. The canned mushrooms should be well drained and chopped finely.

2. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a deep skillet, add a little oil and sauté the onion over medium heat. After a few minutes, add the carrots and bell pepper. Try to sauté them for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly soft. This step will enhance the flavors.

3. Adding the mushrooms and meat:
Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the mushrooms and minced meat to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Cook the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything cooks evenly.

4. Cooling the filling:
After the meat is well cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool. It is important that the filling is not hot when you add it to the dough, to avoid melting it.

5. Preparing the bacon:
In the meantime, fry the slices of bacon in a skillet with a little oil until they become crispy on both sides. Then remove them to a paper towel to absorb the excess fat.

6. Adding the eggs:
Once the filling is cool, add the two beaten eggs and mix well. They will bind the composition and provide a pleasant texture.

7. Preparing the dough:
Thaw the puff pastry and roll it out on a clean surface. Cut it into 8 equal squares.

8. Forming the flowers:
Place each square of dough in muffin tins, folding the edges down to create a petal-like appearance. Arrange the slices of bacon around the edges, then fill each flower with the meat and vegetable mixture, pressing gently to secure them.

9. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the molds in the oven and bake for 35 minutes until the dough becomes golden and crispy.

10. Serving:
You can serve the flowers warm, with ketchup on the side for those who prefer a touch of sweetness. Each flower will be a pleasant surprise with every bite.

Serving suggestions:
These puff pastry flowers are perfect for a family dinner, but also for parties or gatherings with friends. You can accompany the dish with a fresh green salad or a yogurt and dill sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Tips and variations:
If you want to add a touch of originality, you can try replacing the minced meat with tofu or feta cheese for a vegetarian version. Additionally, you can experiment with different spices or vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, to vary the taste.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe offers a balanced mix of protein from meat, fiber from vegetables, and carbohydrates from the puff pastry. It can be an excellent choice for a hearty meal, but remember to consume in moderation, considering that each serving contains about 350 calories.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of dough?
Yes, you can use pie dough or whole wheat dough for a healthier version.

2. How can I keep the puff pastry flowers fresh?
It is recommended to consume them immediately after baking, but if there are leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days.

3. Can they be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the flowers before baking them. Place them on a tray in the freezer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to prepare them, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

I encourage you to start cooking and enjoy every step of the process! Preparing these puff pastry flowers is not just a pleasant activity, but also an opportunity to create special moments with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!