Provençal Feuillettes
Introduction to Provençal Feuillettes
Provençal Feuillettes are a culinary delight from the heart of Provence, an area known for its aromatic herbs, sun-drenched landscapes, and rich history in French cuisine. "Feuillettes" translates to "leaves" in English, reflecting the delicate, layered nature of these pastries. Traditionally, this dish features crispy, flaky layers filled with a medley of flavors inspired by Mediterranean ingredients. Its history dates back several centuries as an elegant dish enjoyed in the French countryside.
Ingredients
To prepare authentic Provençal Feuillettes, you will need the following ingredients:
- Puff Pastry - 500g
- Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
- Zucchini - 1 medium, sliced thinly
- Eggplant - 1 small, cubed
- Red Bell Pepper - 1, sliced into strips
- Onion - 1, finely chopped
- Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
- Tomatoes - 2, chopped
- Herbes de Provence - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - to taste
- Egg Wash - 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water
Preparation
Preparing the Vegetable Filling
The first step in making Provençal Feuillettes is preparing the flavorful vegetable filling. Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant.
Next, incorporate the sliced zucchini, cubed eggplant, and red bell pepper. Stir occasionally, cooking until the vegetables start to soften.
Add the chopped tomatoes and sprinkle with herbes de Provence. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
Assembling the Feuillettes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) as you prepare to assemble the pastries. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Use a round cutter to cut out circles, about 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter.
Place a spoonful of the vegetable filling onto each pastry circle, leaving the edges clear. Carefully fold the pastry in half to encapsulate the filling, forming a semi-circle. Seal the edges by pressing them lightly with a fork.
Cooking Process
Transfer the assembled feuillettes to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each pastry with egg wash to give them a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning; adjust the oven temperature and timer as necessary.
How to Enjoy Provençal Feuillettes
Once baked, set the feuillettes aside to cool slightly before serving. They pair nicely with a fresh green salad, a side of olives, or a simple aioli sauce for dipping. Serve them as an appetizer, a light lunch, or as part of a larger meal. These pastries are best enjoyed warm, allowing the rich aromas of Provence to enhance the dining experience.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container, and reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness. Whether indulging alone or with friends, Provençal Feuillettes capture the essence of French country cooking in every bite.