Dive into the world of French patisserie with our Classic Vol-au-Vent recipe, a culinary creation that epitomizes elegance and flavor. Vol-au-vent, translating to ‘windblown’ in French, perfectly describes the light, airy nature of this puff pastry dish. Typically filled with savory ingredients like mushrooms, chicken, or seafood in a rich sauce, these delicate pastry cases are a staple at sophisticated gatherings and high tea events. Perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life or anyone looking to impress at their next dinner party, these vol-au-vents are as delightful to eat as they are exquisite to look at.
1-Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2-Roll out the puff pastry and cut into desired shapes, typically circles or squares. Using a smaller cutter, make an indentation in the center of each piece, being careful not to cut through the pastry.
3-Place the pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
4-Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5-While the pastry is baking, prepare the filling. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until soft.
6-Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms, stirring for a minute. Gradually add the white wine and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
7-Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8-Spoon the chicken and mushroom mixture into the center of each baked vol-au-vent.
9-Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Our Classic Vol-au-Vent is a charming and delectable dish that brings a touch of French sophistication to any dining table. With its flaky pastry and creamy, savory filling, this recipe is a testament to the timeless elegance of French cuisine. Perfect for an appetizer, a fancy brunch, or as part of a buffet spread, vol-au-vents are sure to captivate and delight your guests.
Pastry Tips: Keep the puff pastry cold until ready to use for the best rise.
Filling Variations: Experiment with different fillings like shrimp in a creamy sauce, spinach and cheese, or a rich beef ragout.
Advance Preparation: You can bake the pastry cases ahead of time and reheat them before filling and serving.
Serving Size: For a main course, make larger vol-au-vents; for appetizers, keep them bite-sized.
Wine Pairing: Pair these vol-au-vents with a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the creamy filling.