Puff pastry with meat

Delicious Puff Pastry Recipe with Meat and Vegetables

Welcome to the culinary world, where every ingredient tells a story, and every recipe becomes an occasion for joy. Today, we will explore together a recipe for puff pastry with meat and vegetables, perfect as an appetizer for festive meals or even for a warm family dinner. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for any occasion.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 400 g frozen puff pastry (make sure it is completely thawed)
- 650 g pork shoulder (fresh and of high quality)
- A piece of bacon (approximately 100 g)
- 2 carrots (juicy and crunchy)
- 2 onions (preferably medium-sized)
- 1/2 bell pepper (for a sweet and colorful taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt (helps enhance flavors)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Chili (optional, for a hint of spiciness)
- Fresh herbs: marjoram, lemon balm, parsley (choose aromatic plants according to preferences)
- 1 egg + 1 egg white (for filling)
- For brushing: 1 egg yolk + 2 teaspoons of milk (for a golden and shiny crust)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for a crunchy appearance)

Ingredient Details

Puff pastry is a versatile dough that, when baked, becomes light, crispy, and delicious. Choose a quality puff pastry for the best results. Pork shoulder is ideal due to its juiciness, and bacon will add a rich flavor and pleasant texture. Carrots, onions, and bell pepper not only bring flavor but also vibrant color to the dish. Fresh herbs are essential to add a touch of freshness to the preparation.

Preparation Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning and washing the vegetables. Cut the carrots and bell pepper into small pieces, and the onions into cubes. The pork should be washed and cut into cubes.

2. Chopping: Use a meat grinder to chop the meat, bacon, and vegetables. This will ensure a uniform texture for the filling.

3. Seasoning: In a large bowl, add the spices: salt, pepper, and chili. Mix well, then place the resulting mixture in a wok or a non-stick pan. Do not add oil, as the meat will release enough juice.

4. Sautéing: Let the mixture cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is well sautéed. Finally, add the chopped herbs and mix. Let it cool.

5. Preparing the dough: On a floured work surface, divide the puff pastry into two and roll out each sheet. Each sheet will be divided into three parts. Cut the sides into strips about 2 cm wide.

6. Filling the pastry: Place half of the meat mixture on the middle strip of the first sheet, then pull the edges over the filling, alternating left-right, until it is completely wrapped. Repeat the process with the second sheet.

7. Baking: Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush them with the egg yolk mixed with milk and sprinkle sesame seeds if desired. Place the tray in a preheated oven at 175 degrees Celsius and bake for 35 minutes, or until the pastry is nicely browned.

8. Cooling and serving: Let them cool slightly before cutting. These pastries can be served warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce.

Chef's Tip

To achieve a pastry with a unique texture and flavor, ensure that the dough is well-thawed and not exposed to excessive heat before working with it. Also, feel free to experiment with other vegetables or herbs, such as garlic or dill, to customize the recipe to your preferences.

Possible Variations

This recipe can be adapted according to personal preferences. You can replace pork with chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Additionally, vegetables can be varied, adding zucchini or spinach for a healthier filling.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of this pastry contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a good source of protein due to the pork and eggs, while the vegetables provide vitamins and fiber. It is ideal to consume as part of a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, using store-bought puff pastry is perfectly acceptable and will save you time.

2. Can I prepare the pastry in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and pastry a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them before serving.

3. What can I serve alongside this pastry?
This appetizer goes wonderfully with a fresh salad, a yogurt sauce, or a side of grilled vegetables.

So, I invite you to try this wonderful recipe for puff pastry with meat and vegetables! Not only will it bring a touch of joy to your meals, but it will turn every occasion into a special moment. Enjoy!