Ina's Ham and Cheese in Puff Pastry

Have you made these yet? Honestly, frozen puff pastry makes everything so easy and you can try so many combinations with this appetizer. This was my first attempt but I've made it many times since and used other cheeses and other meats. Try salami, or goat cheese or add some black olives...anything goes. I tend to make a recipe that sounds interesting exactly the way it's written the first time, then experiment.


Ham and Cheese in Puff Pastry
2008, Ina Garten, All Rights Reserved

Ingredients:

1 package (2 sheets) frozen puff pastry, defrosted (recommended: Pepperidge Farm)

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1/4 pound black forest ham, sliced

1/2 pound Swiss Gruyere cheese, sliced

1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water, for egg wash

Method:

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Place a piece of parchment paper on a sheet pan.

Lay 1 sheet of puff pastry on a floured board and carefully roll it out to 10 by 12 inches. Place it on a sheet pan and brush the center with the mustard, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge. Place a layer first of ham and then cheese, also leaving a 1-inch border. Brush the border with the egg wash.

Place the second sheet of puff pastry on the floured board and roll it out to 10 by 12inches. Place the second sheet on top of the filled pastry, lining up the edges. Cut the edges straight with a small, sharp knife and press together lightly. Brush the top with egg wash and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until puffed and golden brown. Allow to cool for a few minutes and serve hot or warm.