Vol au vent with cream cheese

Vol-au-vent with Cream Cheese – An Elegant Delicacy for Any Occasion

Introduction

Vol-au-vent is a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dish that can transform any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. The puff pastry, with its airy and crispy texture, envelops a smooth cream cheese filling, delicately flavored with onion and dill, creating a perfect contrast between crunchy and creamy. This recipe is ideal for parties, gatherings with friends, or simply to treat your family.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 12 vol-au-vent

Necessary Ingredients

*For the vol-au-vent:*

- 1 package of puff pastry (approximately 400 g)
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- 2-3 tablespoons of sesame seeds (for decoration)

*For the cream cheese filling:*

- 250 g cottage cheese (preferably high quality)
- 50 g butter (at room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream (only if the cheese is too dry)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- a few sprigs of fresh dill (finely chopped)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)

History of the Dish

Vol-au-vent comes from French, meaning "windblown," a name that suggests the lightness and delicacy of this pastry. This dish was popularized in the 19th century and is often associated with festive meals and special occasions. Over the years, it has become a symbol of culinary refinement, served with various fillings, from savory to sweet.

Preparing the Vol-au-Vents

1. Thawing the pastry: Start by allowing the puff pastry to thaw at room temperature. It is recommended to use the pastry when it is still slightly frozen, as it will be easier to handle. It will roll out better and have a more uniform shape.

2. Beating the egg: In a bowl, whisk the egg with a pinch of salt. This will be used to brush the vol-au-vent, giving them a golden and appetizing color when baked.

3. Cutting the pastry: Roll out the pastry on a clean surface dusted with a little flour to a thickness of about 3-4 mm. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out even circles. From half of the cut circles, use a smaller cutter to create a "ring" in the center.

4. Assembling the vol-au-vents: Place the whole circles on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Place the cut rings on top of each circle and brush everything with the beaten egg. This step will help adhere the layers and give an elegant look.

5. Sprinkling sesame seeds: Sprinkle each vol-au-vent with a little sesame, which will add not only an attractive appearance but also a crunchy note.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Bake the vol-au-vents for about 20 minutes or until they are golden and puffed. It is essential not to open the oven door in the first 15 minutes to allow the pastry to rise properly.

7. Cooling: After baking, remove the vol-au-vents to a wire rack to cool completely.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling

1. Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, add the cottage cheese and soft butter. Use a mixer to combine the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and fluffy cream.

2. Adding flavors: Incorporate the finely chopped onion and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the cheese is too dry, you can add 2 tablespoons of sour cream for a creamier consistency.

3. Filling the vol-au-vents: Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill the cooled vol-au-vents with the cream cheese mixture. They can be served immediately, but it is recommended to keep them chilled until serving to maintain freshness.

Serving and Variations

Vol-au-vents with cream cheese can be served as appetizers for any special occasion. You can experiment with different fillings by adding ingredients like olives, roasted red peppers, or even smoked salmon for a more sophisticated taste.

For an even more festive touch, you can pair the vol-au-vents with a white wine or a refreshing cocktail, such as a cool mojito.

Nutritional Benefits

Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamins, being easy to digest. Dill adds not only flavor but also antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, sesame seeds provide healthy fats and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Absolutely! You can experiment with ricotta, goat cheese, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavors.

2. How can I make the vol-au-vents lower in calories?
- You can substitute the butter with Greek yogurt or low-fat cottage cheese.

3. Can the vol-au-vents be frozen?
- It is recommended to freeze them before baking. You can assemble them and place them in the freezer, and before baking, simply let them thaw and then bake according to the instructions.

Conclusion

These vol-au-vents with cream cheese are more than just an appetizer; they are a culinary experience that will impress anyone who tastes them. With each bite, you will feel the perfect combination of the crispy texture of the pastry and the creaminess of the filling. Don't hesitate to put your personal touch on this recipe by experimenting with various ingredients and flavors. Bon appétit!