Flaky Pastry with Ham, Pepper, and Apples

This delightful recipe combines the richness of ham, the crunch of vegetables, and the sweetness of apples, all enveloped in a flaky pastry. It's a dish that can easily become a favorite for brunch or a cozy dinner. The dish begins with a base of layered yeast pastry, which is then topped with a mixture of creamy mozzarella and sour cream, creating a luscious foundation. Slices of smoked ham complement the ensemble, while fresh green pepper strips, tomato slices, and apple wedges add both color and texture. Thymely sprinkled thyme and a final touch of grated or sliced cheese elevate the flavors, culminating in a perfect balance of savory and sweet. Baked to a golden brown crisp, the pastry hosts a medley of flavors in each bite. It's both a visual and culinary treat, simple to prepare yet impressive to serve. Suitable for any occasion, it promises an experience that delights the senses.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of frozen layered yeast pastry (10 x 20 cm)
• 1 tablespoon of sour cream
• 25g of cheese (your choice)
• 2 slices of smoked ham (50g)
• 1/2 mozzarella ball
• 1/4 small green pepper
• 1/4 apple
• 1/2 tomato
• Egg for brushing

Spices:

• A pinch of thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Thaw the Pastry: Start by thawing one sheet of frozen layered yeast pastry, ensuring it is pliable but not too soft.
2. Prepare the Base: Gently fold and press a small edge around the pastry. This creates a border to hold the toppings in place.
3. Egg Wash: Lightly beat an egg and brush it over the entire pastry surface, including the edges. This will give it a golden finish once baked.
4. Cream Mixture: Mix the sour cream with grated mozzarella cheese, adding a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread this mixture evenly over the pastry base.
5. Add the Ham: Layer the slices of smoked ham on top of the cream mixture, covering the surface evenly.
6. Slice the Veggies and Fruit: Thinly slice the tomato, wedge the apple, and cut the green pepper into strips.
7. Layer the Toppings: Arrange the sliced tomato, apple wedges, and pepper strips over the ham. Be creative with the arrangement for a visually appealing result.
8. Season: Sprinkle a pinch of salt, pepper, and thyme over the entire assembly for enhanced flavor.
9. Add the Cheese: Choose between sliced or grated cheese. Distribute it evenly over the toppings, ensuring coverage for a cheesy delight.
10. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F) while you complete the preparations.
11. Baking Time: Place the prepared pastry on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven. Allow it to bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
12. Ready to Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving, ensuring maximum flavor in each bite.

Tips

• Cheese Variety: Feel free to use any cheese you prefer or have on hand, such as gouda or cheddar.
• Vegetable Substitutions: If bell peppers aren't your favorite, try adding sliced zucchini or mushrooms.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme is ideal, but dried thyme can work if fresh isn't available.

Nutritions

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 12g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbs: 25g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ham with cooked spinach or grilled mushrooms.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pastry sheets available in stores.
• Fruit Substitution: Pears can be an interesting swap for apples for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra color.
• Pair the pastry with a light green salad or steamed vegetables.
• Serve with a glass of white wine or apple cider to complement the flavors.

Best Places

• Le Pain Quotidien - Known for its artisanal breads and pastries. Location: 8 Elizabeth Street, London, United Kingdom.
• Café Savoy - A grand café offering an array of delectable pastries. Location: Vítězná 124/5, Prague, Czech Republic.
• Tartine Bakery - Famed for its bread and inventive pastries. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
• Conditorei Schober - A historic cafe offering classic Swiss pastries. Location: Napfgasse 4, Zurich, Switzerland.
• Gerbeaud - An elegant spot with traditional Hungarian pastries. Location: Vörösmarty tér 7-8, Budapest, Hungary.
• Balthazar Bakery - A bustling bakery with excellent pastry offerings. Location: 80 Spring Street, New York, USA.
• Patisserie Sadaharu Aoki - Combining French techniques with Japanese flavors. Location: 35 rue de Vaugirard, Paris, France.
• Dalloyau - Known for exquisite pastries and cakes across France. Location: 63 Rue de Grenelle, Paris, France.
• Tazza d'Oro - Famed for their pastries and coffee in historic surroundings. Location: Via degli Orfani, 84, Rome, Italy.
• Demel - Offers Viennese pastries in a historical setting. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.