Prosciutto and Cheese Rustici

Ham and cheese rustici are a typical treat of Italian cuisine, especially from the South, popular as finger foods in pizzerias or rotisseries. They are small puff pastry bites filled with cooked ham and mozzarella, featuring a soft and stringy center enclosed in a crispy, golden crust. It is a perfect dish for an aperitif or buffet.

Ingredients

• 1 roll of rectangular puff pastry
• 100 g sliced cooked ham
• 100 g mozzarella (or other stringy cheese)
• 1 egg (for brushing)
• Sesame or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 200 °C.
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into equal squares or rectangles.
3. Drain the mozzarella and cut it into small pieces.
4. Place a piece of cooked ham and some mozzarella pieces on half of the puff pastry squares.
5. Cover with the other piece of puff pastry and press the edges to seal them well. You can use a fork to create a decorative effect along the edges.
6. Beat the egg in a bowl and brush the surface of the rustici. This will help them brown in the oven.
7. If desired, sprinkle the rustici with sesame or poppy seeds to add crunch and flavor.
8. Arrange the rustici on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the rustici are golden and puffed.
10. Remove the rustici from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

The rustici are best served hot to enjoy their external crispiness and stringy center. Remember to drain the mozzarella well before using it to avoid releasing too much liquid during baking.

Fun Facts

Rustici are part of the street food tradition in many cities of Southern Italy, such as Naples, where they are a staple in rotisseries and bars, especially to quickly feed students and workers during lunch breaks. The art of making them is often passed down and reflects the love for conviviality and sharing typical of Italian culture.