As more and more people turn to veganism, the demand for vegan options in public events, parties, and restaurants is ever-growing, but for some the misconception that vegan food is only tasteless salad or dried fruits still presists. However, there are loads of options for vegans as well to stuff their faces with tasty, fulfilling and guilt-inducing delicacies. Whether you’re a full-on vegan or a sworn carnivore, check out these yummy and savory soy pastries that are guaranteed to be a hit among all eaters. These treats are great for parties, picnics (e.g. Vappu!), or just as plain old hangover food. Plus, they’re really easy to make!
Ingredients (16 pcs)
1 package of puff pastry (made with margarin)
1 dl couscous
2dl brown soy mince
2 tomatoes
1 onion
60g champions
1-2 cloves of garlic
1 tbs tomato puree
1 tsp Sriracha sauce
barbeque seasoning
cajun seasoning
salt & pepper
Start by laying out the frozen puff pastry sheets on greaseproof paper on a baking tray to let them soften.
Prepare the couscous as instructed in the package. Cut the tomatoes, champions and onion into small dice and sauté in a splash of olive oil. Crush in the garlic. Throw in the soy mince, stir, and add a bit of water for the soy to absorb and swell. Season with salt, pepper and the barbecue and cajun spices. Stir in the tomato puree and Sriracha sauce, then mix in the couscous. Check for taste and put the filling in the fridge to cool down.
Preheat the oven to 225C. Cut the softened puff pastry sheets in half and stretch the squares with your hands. Add a generous spoonful of the filling to the center and fold the pastry from one corner to another. Seal the edges carefully. Before putting the pastries in the oven you can brush them with a sprinkle of water to give them that delicious golden brown look. Bake on the mid-level for approximately 10 minutes or until golden brown. Let the pastries cool down for a few minutes, brush gently with water and sprinkle with dried herbs. Bon appétit!
TIP! If your puff pastry softens and warms up too much before going in the oven, you can put the pastries in the fridge or freezer for 15 minutes or so. That way the pastries will rise nicely and keep their form in the oven!
Photos by Milka Nissinen