Ham and Cheese Pastries

Ham and cheese pastries are a typical delicacy of Italian gastronomy, especially in the South, popular as snacks in pizzerias or delicatessens. They are small bites of puff pastry filled with cooked ham and mozzarella, with a soft and stringy heart, enclosed in a crispy and golden shell. It’s a perfect dish for an aperitif or a buffet.

Ingredients

• 1 roll of rectangular puff pastry
• 100 g of sliced cooked ham
• 100 g of mozzarella (or other stretched-curd cheese)
• 1 egg (for brushing)
• Sesame or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 200 °C.
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into squares or rectangles of the same size.
3. Drain the mozzarella and cut it into small pieces.
4. Place a piece of cooked ham and some pieces of mozzarella on half of the squares of puff pastry.
5. Cover with another piece of puff pastry and press the edges to seal them well. You can use a fork to create a decorative effect along the edges.
6. Beat the egg in a bowl and brush the surface of the pastries. This will help them to brown in the oven.
7. If you wish, you can sprinkle the pastries with sesame or poppy seeds to add crunchiness and flavor.
8. Arrange the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
10. Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

The pastries are best served warm, to appreciate their crispy exterior and stringy heart. Remember to let the mozzarella drain well before using it, to avoid releasing too much liquid during cooking.

Curiosity

Ham and cheese pastries are part of the street food tradition in many Southern Italian cities, such as Naples, where they are a staple in delicatessens and bars, especially to quickly satisfy students and workers during lunch breaks. The art of preparing them is often handed down and reflects the affection for conviviality and sharing that are typical of Italian culture.