Introduction
These puff pastry rolls with ham and Comté are easy, crispy and delicious. With flaky pastry, savory ham and melted cheese, they make a perfect appetizer, snack or addition to a casual meal.
Origin
This recipe is inspired by French home cooking and the tradition of using puff pastry with ham and cheese. Comté, a famous French cheese from the Jura region, adds a rich and slightly nutty flavor.
Cultural Significance
Ham-and-cheese pastries are popular in French family cooking and are often served at gatherings, parties and aperitifs. Their simplicity makes them easy to prepare and share.
Ingredients – Makes about 20 rolls
- 1 rectangular sheet of puff pastry
- 4 slices of cooked ham
- 120 g grated Comté
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, optional
- Black pepper
- A pinch of dried herbs, optional
Optional Additions
- Thinly sliced mushrooms
- Chopped parsley
- A little grated Emmental
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for the topping
- A small amount of pesto
Tips for Success
- Keep the puff pastry cold until you’re ready to use it.
- Don’t add too much filling, otherwise the rolls may be difficult to seal.
- Roll the pastry firmly but without crushing it.
- Chill the rolled pastry for 15–20 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Leave a little space between the rolls on the baking tray so the pastry can expand.
Instructions
- Prepare the pastry
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Unroll the puff pastry onto a sheet of baking paper. - Add the filling
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the pastry if desired. Arrange the ham evenly over the surface and sprinkle with the grated Comté. Add a little black pepper. - Roll
Starting from one long side, roll the pastry tightly into a log. - Chill
Place the roll in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm it up. - Cut the rolls
Cut the log into approximately 20 slices of similar thickness. - Prepare for baking
Arrange the slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Beat the egg yolk with the milk and brush the tops of the rolls with the mixture. - Bake
Bake for approximately 15–20 minutes, until the puff pastry is golden and the Comté is melted. - Serve
Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving. They are delicious warm or at room temperature.
Description
Each roll has a crisp, golden exterior with flaky layers of puff pastry surrounding savory ham and melted Comté. The cheese gives the filling a rich, nutty flavor while the ham adds a pleasant savory note.
Nutritional Information
These rolls provide carbohydrates from the puff pastry, protein from the ham and cheese, and fats from the pastry and Comté. Since they are fairly rich, they work particularly well as an appetizer or as part of a varied meal.
Healthy Indulgence
For a more balanced option, serve a few rolls alongside a fresh salad or raw vegetables. You can also add mushrooms or other vegetables to the filling while keeping enough Comté to preserve the delicious cheesy flavor.
Conclusion
These ham and Comté puff pastry rolls are quick, easy and perfect for sharing. Their crisp texture and melted cheese make them a reliable choice for an appetizer or homemade snack.
Recommendations
Prepare the rolls shortly before serving for maximum crispiness. You can also prepare the rolled pastry in advance, refrigerate it, then slice and bake it when needed.