Savory mushroom pastry bites (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Tart Shells

01 - 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
02 - All-purpose flour (for dusting)
03 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

→ For the Filling

04 - 2 cups of mushrooms (any variety you prefer), finely chopped
05 - 2 shallots, finely chopped
06 - 2 cloves of garlic, minced
07 - 4 ounces of herbed goat cheese
08 - 1 tablespoon of olive oil
09 - 1 tablespoon of butter
10 - Salt and pepper to taste
11 - Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped shallots and sauté until they become translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
03 - Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until it's fragrant.
04 - Now, toss in the finely chopped mushrooms and cook them until they release their moisture and become tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This process typically takes 5-7 minutes.
05 - Once the mushroom and shallot mixture is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
06 - On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet. Cut into squares or use a round cutter to create circles for your tart shells.
07 - Place the cut pastry pieces onto the prepared baking sheet. If making traditional tarts, press the pastry into tart pans or create a border by folding over the edges slightly.
08 - Spread a small amount of herbed goat cheese on each pastry piece, then top with the mushroom and shallot mixture.
09 - Brush the exposed edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to help them turn golden brown during baking.
10 - Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden.
11 - Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme leaves, and serve warm or at room temperature.

# Notes:

01 - You can prepare the mushroom filling a day ahead and refrigerate it until ready to use.
02 - Try different mushroom varieties like shiitake, oyster, or cremini for unique flavors.
03 - These tarts make an elegant appetizer for dinner parties or a light lunch paired with a salad.