Ham croissants

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls: A Quick and Delicious Treat

If you are looking for a savory appetizer that will impress friends or family, look no further! Ham and cheese puff pastry rolls are the perfect choice. These delicious rolls made from puff pastry, filled with creamy cheese and slices of smoked ham, are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed warm or cold. Plus, they can be made in record time, making them ideal for moments when you need a quick snack.

The History of This Recipe

Over time, puff pastry dishes have been appreciated for their fluffy and crispy texture. The use of cheeses and smoked meats has become a tradition in many cultures, and the combination of adding them to a light and flaky dough is a true culinary indulgence. This type of snack has often been served at parties but can quickly become an everyday dish due to its simplicity.

Ingredients:

- 1 package of puff pastry (recommended Linco, but you can choose another brand, just ensure it is of good quality)
- 1 box of Monor cheese (you can also use other types of cheese, such as feta or cottage cheese, depending on your preferences)
- Slices of smoked ham (or any other preferred deli meats, such as prosciutto or salami)
- 1 egg (for brushing)

Preparation Time:

- Thawing time: 20-30 minutes
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4-6

Step by Step: Preparing Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls

1. Thawing the Dough: Start by removing the package of puff pastry from the freezer and let it thaw for about 20-30 minutes. It is important that the dough is completely thawed to be easy to roll out.

2. Rolling Out the Dough: Once the dough has thawed, carefully unfold it on a clean surface. Use a rolling pin to roll it out evenly, being careful not to tear it. The dough should be about 3-4 mm thick.

3. Adding the Filling: In a bowl, mix the Monor cheese until creamy. Spread this mixture evenly over the entire surface of the dough. Then, lay the slices of smoked ham on top of the cheese, covering the entire surface.

4. Rolling the Dough: Using your hands, start rolling the dough tightly, starting from one end. It is important to roll carefully to avoid tearing the dough. Once you have a compact roll, make sure the edges are well sealed.

5. Cutting the Rolls: Use a serrated knife or a very sharp knife to cut the roll into finger-thick slices. Make sure to cut with gentle movements to avoid ruining the appearance of the rolls.

6. Preparing for Baking: Place the slices of rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. It is recommended to leave enough space between each slice, as they will puff up during baking.

7. Brushing with Egg: Beat the egg in a small bowl and use a kitchen brush to brush each slice of roll. This step will give a golden and appetizing crust.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C (or 180°C for a fan oven). Place the tray with the rolls in the oven and let them bake for 25-30 minutes. Check them after 15-20 minutes to prevent burning, as baking time may vary depending on the oven.

9. Serving: Once the rolls are golden and crispy, remove the tray from the oven and let them cool slightly. Arrange them on a platter and serve them warm or cold, alongside a cold beer or a glass of white wine.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Result

- Cheese Varieties: If you want to experiment, you can add herbs like dill or parsley to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- Ham Alternatives: You can use turkey ham or even tuna, depending on your dietary preferences.
- Various Fillings: These rolls can be adapted based on available ingredients. Replace the cheese with mozzarella or add sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Serving: These snacks are excellent alongside a yogurt dip or a flavored mayonnaise.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use fresh dough instead of frozen? Yes, fresh dough will provide a similar texture, but make sure to roll it out well.
- How can I store the rolls? If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. They can be reheated in the oven to regain their crispiness.
- Are they suitable for a party? Absolutely! These rolls are perfect for parties and gatherings, being easy to share and very tasty.

Nutritional Benefits

These rolls are a good source of protein due to the cheese and ham, while the puff pastry adds carbohydrates that provide energy. However, moderate consumption is recommended, considering that the pastry can be higher in calories.

Whether you choose to enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or even a quick breakfast, ham and cheese rolls will surely become a favorite recipe. So, put on your apron, get to work, and enjoy every bite!