Step into a world of culinary delight with these elegant and delightful Vols au Vent. Blending the crisp flakiness of puff pastry with the rich flavors of a creamy filling, these delectable pastries are perfect for any occasion – from cozy gatherings to elegant dinner parties. Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea or celebrating a special milestone, these Vols au Vent are sure to impress your guests with their beautiful presentation and mouthwatering taste.
**Vols Au Vent**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 shallot, finely chopped
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into rounds using a large cookie cutter. Place these rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one as they will puff up while baking. Using a smaller cookie cutter, lightly score a smaller circle within each round, making sure not to cut all the way through the pastry.
3. Bake the puff pastry rounds in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden and puffed. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Gently press down the center of each round to create a hollow for the filling.
4. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the finely chopped mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and brown slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine with the mushrooms. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the cream thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Spoon the creamy mushroom mixture into the hollow centers of the baked puff pastry rounds. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of each filled Vols au Vent.
8. Place the prepared Vols au Vent back in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy these Vols au Vent warm as an appetizer or a light main course. Their buttery, flaky pastry paired with the savory mushroom filling creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave your guests raving. Serve them alongside a crisp salad or a glass of chilled white wine for a truly elegant dining experience that will elevate any gathering. Embrace the art of French pastry with this timeless recipe and delight in the joy of creating something truly special in your own kitchen.
