Introduction
These Puff Pastry Baskets with Creamy White Wine Sauce are elegant, flaky, and rich in flavor. The golden puff pastry serves as a crispy vessel for the luxurious white wine sauce and can be filled with vegetables, chicken, seafood, or mushrooms. This dish is perfect for entertaining or a special occasion, guaranteed to impress your guests.
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry Baskets:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water
For the Creamy White Wine Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Fillings:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
- 1 cup cooked shrimp
- 1/2 cup steamed vegetables (like asparagus, peas, or broccoli)
Preparation Tips
- Puff Pastry: Keep the puff pastry cold to ensure it puffs properly. Work quickly and return it to the fridge if it starts to soften.
- Wine Selection: Use a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, for a balanced flavor.
- Fillings: Customize the baskets with your favorite protein or vegetables to suit your taste.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry Baskets
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly to even it out. Cut the pastry into 4-6 squares or circles, depending on your preferred basket size.
- To create the basket rims, cut smaller shapes (rings) out of half of the pastry pieces. Stack the rings on top of the full pastry squares or circles to form walls, brushing the edges with egg wash to help them stick.
- Brush the tops of the pastry baskets with egg wash.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Creamy White Wine Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the white wine, letting it simmer for 1-2 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
- Slowly add the heavy cream, whisking constantly, and cook until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
- Stir in the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- If using additional fillings, stir them into the sauce to warm through.
Step 3: Assemble the Baskets
- Gently press down the center of each puff pastry basket to create a hollow space for the filling.
- Spoon the creamy white wine sauce and filling into the center of each basket.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, or a drizzle of the sauce.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the puff pastry baskets immediately while they are warm and crispy.
Description
These Puff Pastry Baskets with Creamy White Wine Sauce are a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The flaky pastry pairs beautifully with the rich, velvety sauce, creating a dish that’s indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for parties, brunch, or a romantic dinner, these baskets are as versatile as they are delicious.
Nutritional Information (Per Basket, Based on 6 Baskets)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make the baskets ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the puff pastry baskets up to a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes before filling.
2. Can I use non-alcoholic substitutes for the wine?
Absolutely! Replace the white wine with chicken or vegetable broth and add a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
3. Can I freeze the pastry baskets?
Yes, the baked puff pastry baskets can be frozen. Let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen.
4. What can I serve alongside these baskets?
Pair them with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup for a complete meal.
5. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Use a plant-based puff pastry, dairy-free butter and cream, and replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version.
Recommendations
- Add Herbs: Sprinkle fresh thyme, parsley, or chives over the top for extra flavor and a pop of color.
- Make Mini Versions: Use smaller pastry circles to create bite-sized appetizers for a party.
- Double the Sauce: The creamy white wine sauce is so good, you might want extra for dipping or drizzling.
Conclusion
These Puff Pastry Baskets with Creamy White Wine Sauce are an elegant and versatile dish that’s sure to impress. With their flaky texture and indulgent filling, they’re perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to fancy celebrations. Enjoy this delightful recipe!