Introduction
Vol-au-Vent à la Dinde is a delightful and elegant dish that combines tender turkey with a rich white wine and Parmesan sauce, all encased in flaky puff pastry. This French-inspired recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, showcasing the flavors of turkey and wine in a beautifully presented form.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 sheets of puff pastry
– 300g cooked turkey, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 200ml white wine
– 100ml cream
– 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish
Prep Time
Preparation time for this dish is approximately 10 minutes, allowing you to gather all necessary ingredients and get everything ready before cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time is around 15 minutes, making the total time to enjoy this meal about 25 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner or small gathering.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients for the vol-au-vent, including the turkey, white wine, Parmesan cheese, and any additional flavorings or seasonings as specified in your main recipe.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey
In a skillet, heat some oil and add the diced turkey. Cook until it is browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes over medium heat.
Step 3: Add the Wine
Pour in the white wine and allow it to simmer for a few minutes. This helps to incorporate the flavors and deglaze the pan, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
Step 4: Incorporate the Sauce
Add a sauce base, which could be cream or a flour-based mixture, to the turkey and wine. Stir well to combine, ensuring the turkey is evenly coated. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to melt completely into the sauce, enhancing the flavor and creaminess.
Step 6: Assemble the Vol-au-Vent
Carefully fill the pre-prepared vol-au-vent pastry shells with the creamy turkey mixture. Be generous to ensure they are well-filled.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Place the filled vol-au-vent on a serving plate and serve them warm. Optionally, garnish with additional Parmesan or herbs for presentation.
Notes
Note 1: Serving Suggestions
These vol-au-vent can be accompanied by a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Note 2: Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the filled pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, consume them fresh.
Note 3: Baking the Pastry
If you are making the pastry from scratch, ensure it is rolled out thinly and baked until golden for the best results. Follow the specific baking instructions for your chosen recipe.
Note 4: Modifications
Feel free to modify the filling according to your preference. You can include different vegetables, switch proteins, or even make it vegetarian by substituting turkey for mushrooms or tofu.
Cook techniques
Poaching
Poaching is a gentle cooking method used to prepare tender chicken or turkey. It involves simmering the meat in a flavorful liquid, such as white wine or broth, which helps to retain moisture and enhances flavor.
Sautéing
Sautéing is a quick cooking technique where ingredients are cooked in a small amount of fat over high heat. This is perfect for browning the meat and developing rich flavors quickly.
Deglazing
Deglazing involves adding liquid to a hot pan after sautéing to loosen and dissolve the brown bits stuck to the bottom. This technique is essential for creating a flavorful sauce.
Reducing
Reducing is the process of simmering a liquid to evaporate some of its water content, concentrating the flavors. This technique is often used in sauce preparation to enhance taste and thickness.
Emulsifying
Emulsifying is the technique of combining two ingredients that normally do not mix, such as oil and vinegar, to create a stable sauce. This is typically done by whisking or blending.
FAQ
What can I substitute for white wine in this recipe?
You can use chicken broth or a mixture of vinegar and water as a substitute for white wine to maintain the flavor profile.
Can I use frozen turkey instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen turkey, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking to ensure even cooking.
How do I know when the turkey is cooked through?
The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is the best way to check this.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble them just before serving. Store the sauce separately until ready to serve.
What can I serve with vol-au-vent?
This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or buttery mashed potatoes to complement the rich flavors.
Conclusion
The vol-au-vent with turkey, white wine sauce, and parmesan is a delightful dish that combines flavors and textures, making it a standout meal. Its simplicity and quick preparation time make it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy this elegant dish with a side salad or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Alfredo Pasta
A creamy, cheesy pasta dish that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken and steamed broccoli.
Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon
This fresh and zesty salmon dish is perfect for a light meal, complementing a side of quinoa and asparagus.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of ground turkey, rice, and spices, baked to perfection.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
A rich and creamy risotto packed with earthy mushrooms, ideal for a cozy dinner night.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts filled with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs, served with roasted vegetables.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
A quick and vibrant stir-fry loaded with seasonal vegetables, perfect served over rice or noodles.