Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries

Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries Recipe | Delicious Savory Pastry

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries are a delicious and savory dish that combines the rich flavors of catfish with the creamy tanginess of goat cheese. These pastries are perfect for a special dinner or as a unique appetizer for a party.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional savory pastries, combining the flavors of catfish and goat cheese in a flaky pie crust. The combination of these ingredients creates a unique and delicious dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

1 x 15 oz (425 g) package of folded, refrigerated, unbaked pie crusts (2 crusts)
1 medium onion, chopped
1 minced garlic clove
3 tbsp butter or margarine
1.5 lb (680 g) of U.S. farm-raised catfish fillets, cubed
8 oz (227 g) of fresh goat cheese or soft-style cream cheese
2 tbsp of chopped fresh basil or 1 tsp of dried basil, crushed

How to prepare

Allow pie crusts to stand at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes, as per package directions.
Unfold the pie crusts and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
In a saucepan, cook the onion and garlic in butter or margarine until tender.
Add the catfish and cook and stir for about 5 minutes, or until it flakes easily.
Use a spoon to break the catfish into small pieces.
Add the goat cheese or cream cheese and basil, and cook and stir until the cheese melts.
Remove from heat.
Spoon half of the catfish mixture onto half of each pie crust.
Moisten the edges with water.
Fold the pie crusts in half and turn the edges under.
Seal the edges with the tines of a fork.
For smaller pastries, cut the pie crusts into thirds.
Prick the top of the pie crust and brush it with milk.
Bake in a 375°F (191°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the pastry is brown.
Cut into wedges and serve warm.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers to the catfish mixture for added flavor.
Substitute smoked salmon for the catfish for a different twist on the recipe.
Use puff pastry instead of pie crust for a flakier texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to allow the pie crusts to come to room temperature before unfolding them to prevent cracking.

- Make sure to cook the catfish until it flakes easily to ensure it is fully cooked.

- You can substitute cream cheese for goat cheese if desired for a milder flavor.

- Brushing the pastry with milk before baking will give it a golden brown color.

Serving Suggestions

Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries can be served as a main dish with a side salad or as an appetizer for a party. They pair well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the catfish until it flakes easily to ensure it is fully cooked.

- Brushing the pastry with milk before baking will give it a golden brown color.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute cream cheese for goat cheese if desired for a milder flavor.

- Use puff pastry instead of pie crust for a flakier texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the catfish mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the pastries. You can also assemble the pastries ahead of time and bake them just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries on a platter with fresh herbs for garnish. You can also drizzle them with a balsamic reduction for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries pair well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer such as a pilsner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Catfish is a good source of vitamins B12 and D, as well as minerals such as selenium and phosphorus. Goat cheese is a good source of calcium and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (goat cheese) and wheat (pie crust), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries are a good source of protein and fats, and provide essential vitamins and minerals. However, they are also relatively high in calories and carbohydrates.

Summary

Catfish and Goat Cheese Pastries are a delicious and unique dish that combines the flavors of catfish and goat cheese in a flaky pie crust. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or as a unique appetizer for a party.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha, who lived on a farm just outside of town. As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by the most delicious aroma wafting from the kitchen.

Martha was busy at the stove, frying up some crispy catfish fillets, and I could see a plate of crumbled goat cheese sitting on the countertop. Curious, I asked her what she was making, and she replied with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, "Catfish and goat cheese pastries, my dear. A little something I picked up from a friend of a friend."

I watched as Martha deftly folded the flaky pastry dough around the catfish and goat cheese filling, sealing each one with a loving touch. She then popped them into the oven, and within minutes, the kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering scent of baked goodness.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Martha told me the story of how she had come across the recipe. It all started with a chance encounter at the local farmers market, where she had struck up a conversation with a woman selling fresh goat cheese. The woman had mentioned that she loved to pair the cheese with catfish, and Martha was intrigued.

She had asked for the recipe, and the woman had been more than happy to share it with her. Martha had made a few tweaks of her own, adding her own special touch with some herbs and spices, and the result was nothing short of magical.

I savored every bite of the crispy pastry, the tender catfish, and the creamy goat cheese melting in my mouth. It was a perfect balance of flavors and textures, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

After finishing our meal, Martha invited me to join her in the kitchen to learn the recipe. She guided me through each step, showing me how to season the catfish just right, how to crumble the goat cheese for the perfect consistency, and how to fold the pastry dough with precision.

It was a labor of love, and I could feel the warmth of Martha's friendship and generosity in every dish we made together. As we worked side by side, laughing and chatting, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this shared experience and the delicious food we were creating.

By the time our pastries came out of the oven, golden brown and crispy, I felt a sense of accomplishment unlike anything I had ever experienced before. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the special bond between friends and the joy of cooking together.

As I bid farewell to Martha that day, my heart was full of gratitude for her kindness and the gift of this wonderful recipe. I promised to make it for my family and friends, to share the love and the flavors that had brought us together on that summer day.

And so, with Martha's guidance and inspiration, I continued to perfect my catfish and goat cheese pastries, adding my own twist here and there to make it truly my own. Each time I made them, I would think of Martha and our shared love of good food and good company, knowing that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day at Martha's farm, I can't help but smile at the memories we created and the delicious meals we shared. The magic of cooking and friendship lives on in every bite of these catfish and goat cheese pastries, a testament to the power of good food and good friends.