Ingredients:
For the Filling:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
300g minced meat (beef, lamb, or chicken)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
100g grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
For the Pastry:
1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Sesame or nigella seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Introduce the minced meat to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
Season the mixture with smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Once cooled, fold in the grated cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped boiled eggs if using.
2. Assemble the Pastries:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth any creases.
Cut the pastry into equal-sized squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
Place a generous spoonful of the filling onto the center of each pastry piece.
Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, ensuring the edges align.
Press the edges together with a fork to seal the pastries securely.
3. Bake the Pastries:
Transfer the assembled pastries to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a golden finish.
Sprinkle sesame or nigella seeds on top for added flavor and texture, if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
4. Serve:
Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or paired with a fresh salad for a light meal.
Tips:
Ensure the filling is cooled before placing it on the puff pastry to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
Feel free to customize the filling by adding vegetables like sautéed spinach or mushrooms.
These pastries can be prepared in advance and reheated in the oven before serving.
Enjoy your savory puff pastries!