Nothing beats the satisfaction of biting into a warm, flaky crust and into a delicious filling, whether it’s savory or sweet. En croute (which means “in a crust” in French) is a cooking method that involves wrapping ingredients in pastry and baking them to golden perfection. It can be used for a variety of dishes, from classic beef Wellington to vegetable tarts and sweet apple pies.
Ingredients
The beauty of en croute is that it is adaptable to a variety of fillings – meat, fish, vegetables, fruits and even cheese can be transformed into delicious pastry encased meals. The most important aspect is choosing high-quality ingredients that will shine through when cooked. For savory dishes, beef fillet, duck or salmon are great options for meat lovers, while butternut squash or mushroom for vegetarians. Seasonings and herbs also help to enhance flavors.
Pastry
A melt-in-the-mouth pastry is key to making perfect en croute. Puff pastry is the most commonly used dough, as it creates that flaky, buttery texture everyone loves. It can be made from scratch, but store-bought versions work just as well. Other doughs, like shortcrust, filo or even pizza dough, can also be used depending on the filling and your personal preferences.
Cooking and Serving
Cooking an en croute dish involves baking the wrapped ingredients in the oven until the pastry is golden brown and crispy. Once baked, cut the en croute into slices and serve as a perfect centerpiece to your table. Accompany with a side salad, roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables and enjoy!
En croute is an indulgent and delicious technique that adds a touch of sophistication to any meal. With a little bit of planning and confidence, you can create a show-stopping dish that will impress your friends and family at any dinner party. So, get creative with your fillings and enjoy the mouth-watering experience that en croute has to offer.
