Crispy ham and potato cigars are a simple yet flavorful recipe that everyone will love. Perfect as an appetizer, starter, or even a light meal, these little rolls combine the crunchiness of brick pastry with a creamy filling made from mashed potatoes, ham, and cheese. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for impressing your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why Choose Ham and Potato Cigars?
This recipe combines everyday ingredients to create a comforting and tasty dish. The potatoes bring softness and creaminess, while the ham adds a savory and protein-rich touch. Melted cheese—such as Emmental, Comté, or mozzarella—adds irresistible creaminess that binds everything together. Cooking the cigars in butter or olive oil gives them a golden, crispy exterior that perfectly contrasts the tender filling.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Crispy Cigars
To make about 12 cigars, you’ll need:
- 3 medium potatoes (about 400 g): Preferably starchy varieties for a light mash.
- 4 slices of cooked ham: Mild and tender for balanced flavor.
- 100 g grated cheese: Emmental, Comté, or mozzarella, depending on your preference.
- 12 sheets of brick pastry: Thin and crispy pastry perfect for wrapping.
- 1 tablespoon crème fraîche (optional): Adds extra creaminess to the mash.
- Freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
- Melted butter or olive oil: For cooking and crispiness.
Easy Steps to Make Crispy Ham and Potato Cigars
- Prepare the mash: Peel and chop the potatoes evenly. Boil them in salted water until tender. Drain and mash the potatoes, adding crème fraîche if desired for extra creaminess. Season with pepper.
- Make the filling: Chop the ham into small pieces. Mix the ham, grated cheese, and mashed potatoes until well combined.
- Assemble the cigars: Cut each brick sheet in half. Place a spoonful of the filling on the edge of each half-sheet. Roll into a cigar shape, folding the edges to seal the filling inside.
- Cook until crispy: Brush the cigars with melted butter or olive oil. Fry them in a hot pan over medium heat, turning regularly until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Serve: Enjoy hot, ideally with a fresh green salad for a nice contrast in textures and flavors.
Tips to Customize Your Recipe
- Swap the cooked ham for prosciutto or shredded chicken for a different twist.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the filling for a fresh flavor boost.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the ham with sautéed vegetables or mushrooms.
- Try different cheeses such as goat cheese, gouda, or a spicy blend for new taste experiences.
Why Are These Perfect for Entertaining?
Crispy cigars are easy to eat by hand, loved by both kids and adults, and great for parties. Their individual portions can be made ahead and quickly reheated before serving. They’re a smart choice for casual gatherings where simplicity meets deliciousness.
Ready to try these crispy ham and potato cigars? What cheese do you usually use in your recipes? Share your tips to make them even more flavorful!
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Crispy Ham and Potato Cigars
Ingredients
Method
- Peel and chop the potatoes evenly, then boil them in salted water until tender.
- Drain and mash the potatoes, adding crème fraîche if desired for extra creaminess. Season with pepper.
- Chop the ham into small pieces and mix it with the grated cheese and mashed potatoes until well combined.
- Cut each brick sheet in half and place a spoonful of the filling on the edge of each half-sheet.
- Roll into a cigar shape, folding the edges to seal the filling inside.
- Brush the cigars with melted butter or olive oil and fry them in a hot pan over medium heat, turning regularly until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Enjoy the cigars hot, ideally with a fresh green salad for a nice contrast in textures and flavors.