Paszteciki z Ciasta Francuskiego: A Delightful Polish Appetizer

Paszteciki z ciasta francuskiego, or puff pastry rolls, are a beloved Polish snack or appetizer. Traditionally served with clear soups like barszcz czerwony (beetroot soup), these flaky delights are versatile and can be filled with various savory fillings. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a comforting snack, these pastries are sure to impress!

Ingredients:
1 package of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
1 cup of cooked meat (minced or shredded) or mushrooms (finely chopped)
1 medium onion (finely diced)
2 tbsp of butter or oil
1 egg (beaten, for brushing)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: herbs like thyme or parsley
Directions:
Prepare the Filling:

Heat the butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent.
Stir in the meat or mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Puff Pastry:

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into rectangles or squares, depending on your preferred size.
Assemble the Paszteciki:

Place a spoonful of the filling on one side of each pastry piece. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a pocket and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
Brush and Bake:

Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Serve: