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Vol-au-Vent

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Vol-au-Vent is a classic French pastry filled with a savory mixture like creamy chicken, seafood, or vegetables. The light, flaky puff pastry shells paired with a rich filling make this dish perfect for elegant dinners or festive occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

For the pastry shells (if making from scratch):

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the filling:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240 ml) chicken or vegetable stock
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, diced (or shrimp, mushrooms, or vegetables)
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pastry shells:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter (about 3-4 inches in diameter) to cut out 8 circles.
    • From 4 of these circles, cut out smaller circles in the center to create rings.
    • Place the full circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with egg wash.
    • Place the rings on top of the full circles, aligning them carefully. Brush the tops with egg wash.
    • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until puffed and golden. Allow to cool slightly and hollow out the centers if needed.
  2. Make the filling:
    • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
    • Gradually whisk in the stock and white wine (if using), cooking until thickened.
    • Stir in the cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Add the diced chicken and mushrooms (or your chosen filling). Cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
  3. Assemble the vol-au-vent:
    • Spoon the warm filling into the prepared pastry shells.
    • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and leeks as the filling.
  • You can prepare the filling and pastry shells in advance, then assemble just before serving.