VEGETABLE BAKES
Deliciously Homemade Vegetable Bakes, the comforting goodness of these homemade Vegetable Bakes, inspired by the classic Greggs Vegetable Puff Patties! Greggs is known for its delicious and convenient bakery offerings, and their Vegetable Bakes are a fan favorite. This copycat recipe aims to replicate the flaky, golden pastry and the creamy vegetable filling that make Greggs’ version so popular. Flaky puff pastry envelops a hearty filling of sautéed onions, garlic, and a medley of vibrant vegetables, all bound together with a creamy sauce. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and brushed with a golden egg wash, these pastries are baked to perfection for a delightful crunch. Perfect for a snack, lunch, or as a party appetizer, they're sure to be a hit!
For the Filling:
For the Sauce:
For Assembling:
Optional:
Instructions
Prepare the Filling:
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- In a large frying pan over medium heat, melt butter.
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- Add diced onions to the pan and cook until they become translucent.
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- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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- Incorporate mixed vegetables, diced red bell pepper, and chopped broccoli into the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly softened.
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- In another saucepan, bring milk to a gentle boil over medium heat.
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- Once the milk is boiling, add white sauce granules. Whisk vigorously to ensure there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens.
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- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the sautéed vegetable mixture to the sauce. Stir to combine. Allow the filling to cool completely.
Assemble and Bake the Puff Pastries:
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- On a clean, floured surface, lay out the square sheets of puff pastry. Take one sheet and place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the center.
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- Sprinkle a small amount of shredded cheese on top of the filling.
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- Place another pastry sheet on top of the filled sheet. Press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish and to ensure a tight seal.
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- Using a sharp knife, make a few small slits on the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.
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- Beat an egg with a splash of water or milk to create an egg wash. Brush the egg wash over the top of each pastry for a golden finish when baked.
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- Preheat your oven to the specified temperature at 180c.
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- Place the prepared pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven until they are golden brown and puffed up.
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- Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious vegetable puff pastries!
Note
The filling can be customized to your liking! Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Consider adding ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or even leftover roasted vegetables to create a unique flavor profile.
Consider adding herbs like thyme, parsley, or basil for added flavor. A pinch of nutmeg can enhance the creaminess of the filling.
For an authentic taste, consider adding 1/4 cup boiled potatoes and 1/4 cup finely chopped leeks to the filling.
You can make your own puff pastry for a flaky texture, but store-bought puff pastry is a convenient option that yields great results. Make sure it is properly thawed before use.
Keep the pastry cold while working with it. If it becomes too warm, it may become difficult to handle.
Alternatively, use a ready-made white sauce for convenience.
If you can't find white sauce granules, you can create a Béchamel sauce using butter, flour, and milk.
For a cheesy variation, add a bit of cheese to the white sauce before combining it with the vegetables.
These Vegetable Bakes can be made ahead of time. You can freeze unbaked pastries. Assemble them, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Ensure your oven is preheated to the right temperature before baking. This helps achieve a perfect puff and golden color.
Let the pastries cool for a few minutes after baking to allow the filling to set slightly, making them easier to handle.
The egg wash gives the pastries a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish. If you prefer a vegan option, you can use a mixture of plant-based milk and a bit of oil instead.
