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Turn your chicken pot pie recipe into Vol-Au-Vent with a simple swap
Chicken pot pie is a beloved comfort food that many of us enjoy. Whether it’s the frozen variety or a homemade casserole version, there’s something about the combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce that warms the soul. But have you ever thought about taking your chicken pot pie recipe to the next level? With one simple change, you can transform it into an elegant and impressive dish that will have your guests raving. Enter Vol-au-vents.
What are Vol-Au-Vents?
Vol-au-vents are delicate French pastries often served at formal events. The term “vol-au-vent” translates to “flying in the wind,” which is fitting considering the light and airy nature of these puff pastry cases. Traditionally, vol-au-vents are filled with a variety of ingredients, including meats, seafood, or creamy fillings. By replacing the traditional pie crust with a puff pastry shell, you can transform your chicken pot pie into a sophisticated and visually stunning dish.
The Easy Swap: Puff Pastry
The key to transforming your chicken pot pie into a vol-au-vent lies in the use of puff pastry. While making your own puff pastry from scratch is an option for the ambitious home cook, it’s not necessary. Frozen puff pastry is readily available in most supermarkets and is an excellent substitute. You can find premade frozen puff pastry shells that are ready to fill, making the process even easier.
Dress up your Vol-Au-Vents
Once you have your puff pastry shells ready, it’s time to think about how to dress up your vol-au-vents. While the classic chicken pot pie filling works perfectly, you can take it a step further to suit the more upscale nature of vol-au-vents. Consider adding mushrooms, shallots, and fresh herbs to the filling for an extra burst of flavor. Instead of using canned mushroom soup, opt for heavy cream to create a luxuriously creamy sauce. A dash of sherry can add a touch of sophistication, while cream cheese can make the filling rich and indulgent. For a savory twist, crumbled bacon or lardons can be excellent additions that elevate the flavor profile.
Assembly and Serving
Once you’ve prepared your chicken vol-au-vent filling, whether it’s the classic pot pie version or a more upscale variation, it’s time to assemble and serve. Pre-bake the puff pastry shells according to the package instructions to ensure they stay crisp. Then simply heat the filling and spoon it into the pre-baked shells. Cooking the shells and filling separately helps keep the pastry crisp for as long as possible. It’s worth noting that filled vol-au-vents don’t make great leftovers, as the pastry tends to become soggy when in contact with the filling. However, frozen puff pastry can be stored in the freezer for an extended period of time, and any leftover chicken filling can be refrigerated or frozen for future use.
Conclusion
With a simple swap from traditional pie crust to puff pastry, you can transform your humble chicken pot pie into elegant and delicious vol-au-vents. These delicate French pastries are sure to impress your guests at any gathering or dinner party. Whether you stick to the classic pot pie filling or get creative with additional ingredients, the combination of tender chicken and creamy sauce in a light, flaky pastry shell is a winning combination. So the next time you’re in the mood for a comfort food classic with a twist, give vol-au-vent a try. You won’t be disappointed.
FAQS
Can I use store-bought puff pastry to make vol-au-vents?
Yes, absolutely! Store-bought frozen puff pastry works great for making vol-au-vents. It saves time and effort compared to making puff pastry from scratch.
Can I use a different filling for my vol-au-vents?
Yes, you can experiment with different fillings for your vol-au-vents. While the classic chicken pot pie filling is delicious, you can get creative and try fillings like seafood, vegetables, or even creamy sauces to suit your tastes.
How do I make sure the puff pastry stays crispy?
To ensure that the puff pastry stays crisp, it’s important to pre-bake the puff pastry shells separately before filling. This creates a barrier between the filling and the pastry, preventing it from becoming soggy.
Can I prepare vol-au-vents in advance?
While vol-au-vents are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance. You can pre-bake the puff pastry shells and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to fill them. The chicken filling can also be made ahead and refrigerated until needed. Just remember to assemble and bake the vol-au-vents close to serving time for best results.
Can I freeze vol-au-vents?
Vol-au-vents are not ideal for freezing once filled, as the pastry can become soggy when thawed. However, you can freeze the unfilled vol-au-vents for future use. Just be sure to defrost them before baking and filling with your desired ingredients.
Can I make mini vol-au-vents instead of large ones?
Yes, you can definitely make mini vol-au-vents instead of larger ones. Just use smaller puff pastry cases and adjust the filling accordingly. Mini vol-au-vents can be a great option for appetizers or bite-sized party snacks.