Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

Here’s a delightful recipe for Savory Puff Pastry filled with Minced Meat and Cheese, perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a light meal.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 300g minced meat (beef, chicken, or pork)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 100g grated cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar)
• 2 boiled eggs, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg yolk, beaten

For the Yogurt Dip:

• 3-4 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 2-3 pickled cucumbers, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened and golden.
   • Add the minced meat, season with salt, pepper, and dried basil, and cook until browned.
   • Once cooked, stir in the chopped boiled eggs and grated cheese. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Puff Pastry:
   • Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
   • Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into desired shapes (squares, rectangles, or circles).
   • Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each pastry piece.
   • Fold the pastry over the filling to enclose it, pressing the edges together to seal.
   • Brush the tops with beaten egg yolk for a golden finish.
3. Bake:
   • Place the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
4. Prepare the Yogurt Dip:
   • In a small bowl, mix the chopped pickled cucumbers, minced garlic, and yogurt. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the warm puff pastries with the yogurt dip on the side.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
• Enjoy as a snack or appetizer at parties or gatherings.
• Add some spicy mustard or ketchup as additional dipping options.

Cooking Tips:

• Ensure the minced meat is fully cooked to avoid any raw taste in the filling.
• Experiment with different cheeses or herbs to suit your preference.

Storage:

• Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them for up to a month. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispness.

This savory puff pastry recipe combines the perfect balance of crispy pastry, savory meat filling, and melted cheese, complemented by a refreshing tangy yogurt dip. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy meal at home.