Delicious Flaky Pastry Filled with Savory Pike Caramelized Ham Crunchy Pickle Slices

Indulge your senses with this delectable recipe for Delicious Flaky Pastry Filled with Savory Pike Caramelized Ham Crunchy Pickle Slices. This dish beautifully marries the richness of caramelized ham with the tangy crunch of pickles, all enveloped in a light, flaky pastry. Perfect for brunch, a light lunch, or as a savory snack, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• For the Pastry:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup cold water

• For the Filling:

  • 1 cup pike fillet, cooked and flaked
  • 1 cup caramelized ham, diced
  • 1/2 cup crunchy pickle slices, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)

• For Assembly:

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter.
2. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking it to ensure a flaky texture.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked pike, diced caramelized ham, chopped pickle slices, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, black pepper, garlic powder, and dill (if using).
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly integrated. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough to about 1/8 inch thick.
3. Cut the dough into squares or circles, approximately 4 inches in size.
4. Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each pastry piece.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a pocket and seal the edges by pressing with a fork or your fingers.
6. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and flaky.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Tips

• Use high-quality pike for the best flavor; fresh or frozen can work well. If pike isn’t available, any flaky white fish can be substituted.
• Ensure your butter is cold to maintain the flakiness of the pastry. You can even chill the flour for extra precaution.
• For added flavor, consider adding some finely chopped onions or herbs to the filling.
• Experiment with different types of pickles, such as dill, sweet, or bread-and-butter, to customize the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful pastries warm alongside a fresh salad or with a dipping sauce like a zesty ranch or a spicy mustard. Pair with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a complete meal experience.

Variations

• For a vegetarian option, substitute the pike and ham with sautéed mushrooms and spinach, paired with the same cream cheese base.
• Swap out the pickles for roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for an alternative flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

The Delicious Flaky Pastry Filled with Savory Pike Caramelized Ham Crunchy Pickle Slices is a versatile dish that invites creativity in the kitchen. Its flaky texture, savory filling, and crispy edges make it an irresistible treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple.

For more culinary inspiration, explore our other articles like How to Make Perfect Pastry Dough and Caramelizing Onions: A Guide.

Get cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!