roll the dice

perfecting the "done before they arrive" party- a work in progress

Categories: Appetizers, Cocktail Party, Posted on December 31, 2012 by Sandy Bergsten

 

Santa thought my hubby could use diversion so he brought him a backgammon board down our desert chimney. While my husband didn’t seem overly amused with the prospects the big guy in red was confident he’d be up to the challenge. And as luck would have it the hostess from our game night just shared her recipe for those unexpectedly light and flavorful empanadas. So in the spirit competition let’s up the ante with a virtual twist on another ethnic classic. Get your game face on and roll the dice with these two tasty snacks.

Just like my husband’s introduction to games during cocktail hour this next hors d'oeuvre recipe requires a leap of faith. If you’re a fan of patè you’ll appreciate this slightly unorthodox Vietnamese version- bahn mi bites.

bahn mi bites

Start with a creamy truffle mousse pate.

bahn mi bites

Combine the pate, mayonnaise, freshly grated ginger and soy sauce in a bowl.

bahn mi bites

Mix until light and airy. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

bahn mi bites

Cut carrots and daikon radish into matchsticks.

bahn mi bites

Whisk the vinegar, vegetable oil, lime zest and juice, and ½ teaspoon salt in a bowl.

bahn mi bites

Add the carrot and daikon and toss.

bahn mi bites

Spread some of the pate mixture on each toast; top with a dot of Sriracha, a few sticks of carrot-daikon salad and a cilantro leaf.

bahn mi bites

The secret to this next one is its light flaky crust. The usual heavy dough is replaced with puff pastry in these chorizo empanadas.

chorizo empanadas

Defrost two sheet of puff pastry.

chorizo empanadas

In a large skillet heat oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, yellow pepper until tender.

chorizo empanadas

Add the chorizo and cook for five minutes or until no longer pink, breaking up the sausage with the back of a spoon. Add the tomato, oregano and cumin. Simmer, uncovered until liquid is evaporated.

chorizo empanadas

Add the queso fresco and stir to combine. Set aside.

chorizo empanadas

Roll the puff pastry out to an 11"x17" rectangle on a floured surface.

chorizo empanadas

With a 3 &1/2" round cookie cutter cut 24 circles.

chorizo empanadas

Place 1 tablespoon filling in center of each circle.

chorizo empanadas

Fold over to enclose filling; pinch edges together to seal. Place on ungreased baking sheet, crimp edges with the tines of a fork.

chorizo empanadas

Combine beaten egg yolk with milk.

chorizo empanadas

Brush with egg wash.

chorizo empanadas

Bake until golden brown. How’s this for a double dare.

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