Introduction
Pâte feuilletée à la viande, or puff pastry with meat, is a delightful dish that combines flaky, buttery pastry with a savory meat filling. This recipe showcases the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, this dish brings a touch of elegance to your table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Puff pastry dough: 2 sheets
– Ground beef: 500 grams
– Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
– Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
– Carrot: 1 medium, diced
– Celery: 1 stalk, diced
– Thyme: 1 teaspoon, dried
– Salt: 1 teaspoon
– Pepper: ½ teaspoon
– Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)
Prep Time
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables and preparing the meat filling.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for the puff pastry is approximately 30 minutes. This brings the total time for preparing and cooking to about 50 minutes. The recipe yields 4 to 6 servings, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Pastry
Start by making the puff pastry, ensuring that you roll it out on a floured surface until it reaches a thickness of about 3 mm. Divide the pastry into two equal rectangles and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Making the Filling
In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until softened. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Stir in seasonings such as salt, pepper, and herbs, then remove the mixture from heat and let it cool.
Step 3: Assembling the Pâté
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Take one of the pastry rectangles and lay it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the meat filling in the center, leaving about a 2.5 cm (1-inch) border around the edges. Brush the border with beaten egg.
Step 4: Covering the Filling
Take the second pastry rectangle and place it over the filling. Press the edges to seal tightly. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch. Cut a few slits on the top to allow steam to escape.
Step 5: Baking the Pâté
Brush the top of the pastry with more beaten egg for a golden finish. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Step 6: Serving the Pâté
Remove the pâté from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Slice and serve it warm or at room temperature, as desired.
Notes
Storage Instructions
Leftover pâté can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Freezing the Pâté
For longer storage, wrap the pâté tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. It can be thawed in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Alternative Fillings
Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as chicken, pork, or vegetarian options to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This pâté pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or chipped vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Making Puff Pastry
To create puff pastry, start by rolling out layers of dough and folding them repeatedly. This process helps create the airy and flaky texture that is characteristic of puff pastry.
Cooking the Filling
Sauté your choice of meat and vegetables in a pan until cooked through. Season well to enhance the flavors before using them as a filling for the pastry.
Assembling the Pastry
After preparing the filling, place it in the center of a rolled-out pastry sheet. Fold the edges over to encase the filling, ensuring it is sealed well to prevent leakage during baking.
Baking the Pastry
Preheat the oven and bake the assembled pastry until golden brown. This will ensure the pastry rises properly and achieves a desirable crispiness.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry can be a convenient option and will work well for this recipe, saving you time in preparation.
What types of meat can I use for the filling?
You can use a variety of meats like beef, pork, chicken, or even turkey. Ensure they are cooked and seasoned properly before adding them to the pastry.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the pastry.
How should I store leftover pastries?
Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, as microwaving may make them soggy.
Can I freeze the assembled pastries?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
The meat pie is a delightful dish that beautifully balances flaky pastry with a savory filling, making it a comforting option for any meal. Enjoying this recipe can inspire creativity in the kitchen and lead to various adaptations based on personal preferences or available ingredients.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Pot Pie
Substitute the meat filling with a mix of seasonal vegetables and a creamy sauce for a satisfying vegetarian alternative.
Spicy Chicken Empanadas
Use shredded chicken combined with spices and herbs for a zesty twist, wrapped in a buttery pastry.
Mushroom and Spinach Puff Pastry
Create a filling with sautéed mushrooms and spinach, blended with cheese for a rich, earthy flavor.
Cheese and Onion Pasties
Combine cheeses and caramelized onions for a simple yet delicious filling that works well as a snack or appetizer.
Sweet Fruit Turnovers
Use the same pastry technique but fill with fruits such as apples or berries, sweetened with sugar and spices for a dessert option.