Nigel Slater’s Stilton Puffs are delightful little pastry bites filled with creamy Stilton cheese and a touch of herbs. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or addition to a festive platter, these puffs are quick to assemble and bake to golden perfection. With their flaky exterior and rich, cheesy center, they’re sure to impress your guests.

What are Nigel Slater Stilton’s Puffs?

Nigel Slater’s Stilton Puffs are puff pastry bites filled with crumbled Stilton cheese and subtle seasonings. They are baked until golden and crisp, creating a mouthwatering treat that combines the buttery crunch of pastry with the bold flavor of Stilton.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation.
Perfect Party Food: Great for entertaining or holiday gatherings.
Rich and Flaky: Combines buttery pastry with creamy, flavorful cheese.
Versatile: This can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a side dish.
Crowd-Pleaser: Appeals to cheese lovers with its bold and tangy flavor.

Ingredients Needed for Nigel Slater Stilton Puffs

Puff pastry: 1 sheet (ready-rolled or homemade)
Stilton cheese: 150g, crumbled
Egg yolk: 1, beaten, for glazing
Fresh thyme: 1 teaspoon, finely chopped
Black pepper: To taste
Flour: For dusting

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Rolling pin
Knife or pastry cutter
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Pastry brush

Instructions to Make Nigel Slater Stilton Puffs

Prepare the Pastry:

Roll out the pastry: If using ready-rolled puff pastry, lightly flour a surface and roll it out slightly to ensure even thickness.
Cut the pastry: Using a knife or pastry cutter, divide the pastry into squares or circles of your preferred size.

Prepare the Filling:

Mix the Stilton and thyme: In a small bowl, combine the crumbled Stilton cheese with chopped thyme. Add a touch of black pepper to season.

Assemble the Puffs:

Fill the pastry: Place a small amount of the Stilton mixture in the center of each pastry square or circle.
Seal the edges: Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, using a fork if desired for a decorative finish.

Glaze and Bake:

Preheat the oven: Heat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Glaze the puffs: Arrange the assembled puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg yolk for a golden finish.
Bake the puffs: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Serve:

Cool slightly: Allow the Stilton puffs to cool for a few minutes before serving warm.

What to Serve With Nigel Slater Stilton Puffs

Cranberry Sauce: A sweet and tangy dip that complements the richness of Stilton.
Green Salad: A light, refreshing side to balance the richness.
Wine Pairing: Serve with a glass of port or red wine for a classic pairing.
Charcuterie Board: Include the puffs on a festive platter with meats and fruits.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Stilton Puffs

Use chilled pastry: Keep the puff pastry cold to ensure it bakes up flaky and crisp.
Don’t overfill: Avoid adding too much filling, as it may burst during baking.
Seal tightly: Press the edges firmly to prevent the cheese from leaking out.
Experiment with herbs: Try rosemary or chives instead of thyme for variety.
Serve warm: These puffs are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

What are the Variations of Nigel Slater Stilton Puffs?

Add nuts: Include chopped walnuts in the filling for added texture.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the Stilton mixture for a hint of heat.
Use different cheese: Substitute Stilton with goat cheese or cheddar for a milder flavor.
Sweet twist: Add a touch of honey to the filling for a sweet-savory combination.

How Do I Store Nigel Slater Stilton Puffs?

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freeze: Freeze uncooked puffs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen when needed.

How Do I Reheat Nigel Slater Stilton Puffs?

In the oven: Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
In the microwave: Heat on low power for 20-30 seconds, though this may soften the pastry.

How Can I Make Nigel Slater Stilton Puffs Healthier?

Use whole-grain pastry: Opt for a whole-grain puff pastry for added fiber.
Reduce cheese: Use less Stilton to cut down on calories and fat.
Add vegetables: Include finely chopped spinach or mushrooms in the filling.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 180 kcal
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g

Final Words

Nigel Slater’s Stilton Puffs are a delightful way to enjoy the rich, tangy flavor of Stilton cheese. With their flaky pastry and aromatic filling, these puffs are perfect for entertaining or indulging in a savory snack. Serve warm and enjoy the simple elegance of this classic recipe!

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