Small puff pastries with ham
12 servings
180 minutes
Small puff pastries with ham are a refined treat that embodies the spirit of Russian cuisine and the coziness of a home gathering. Their crispy dough, tender inside and infused with the aromas of wine, oil, and lard, creates a harmony of flavors, while the serrano ham filling adds richness and spiciness. The origins of this recipe trace back to traditional Russian pies, but its uniqueness lies in the layered dough and frying method that makes it incredibly golden and appetizing. These pastries are perfect for a festive table or a cozy evening with hot tea. They are convenient to serve as an appetizer; they taste great hot, and their crispy edge and juicy filling make them unforgettable.
1
Pour the wine into a saucepan and add 120 ml of water, oil, and fat. Heat slowly until the fat melts. When the mixture is close to boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat, sift in the flour, add a pinch of salt, and mix well with a wooden spatula.
- Dry white wine: 120 ml
- Butter: 25 g
- Pork fat: 25 g
- Wheat flour: 300 g
- Salt: to taste
2
Place the dough on a floured table and knead until it becomes soft and elastic. Then roll the dough into a ball, cover it with a towel, and let it rest for 2 hours.
3
Place the dough on a floured table and roll it out to a thickness of about 3 mm. Cut out circles with a glass, gather the scraps of dough, roll it out again, and make a few more circles. Finely chop the ham.
- Wheat flour: 300 g
- Serrano ham: 200 g
4
Place a heaping teaspoon of filling on one half of the circle, seal the edges well, and then shape the pastries into crescents.
5
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 180–190 degrees. Carefully spoon the pastries into the oil and fry for 6–8 minutes until golden brown. Place on paper towels. Serve immediately.
- Vegetable oil: 400 ml