1Slice the shallots, chop the garlic, and slice the mushrooms.
2Heat butter in a frying pan over medium-low heat, add shallots and thyme, and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then transfer to a plate.
3Add oil to the pan, increase heat to high, add mushrooms, and cook without stirring for 1-2 minutes. Add balsamic vinegar and cook, stirring, for 4-8 minutes until liquid evaporates.
4Return shallots and garlic to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and transfer to a plate to cool slightly.
5Score a 1-inch border on the puff pastry sheet with a knife, do not cut through, and prick the center with a fork.
6Sprinkle the cheese over the dough, top with the mushroom and shallot mixture, and brush the edges with beaten egg.
7Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden.
Ingredients
1 tbsp butter
2 shallots
2 tsp dried thyme
3 clove garlic, chopped
1 tbsp oil
14 oz mushrooms
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
salt (optional)
pepper (optional)
1 1/4 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
1 sheet puff pastry
1 egg, beaten
Equipment
frying panknifeforkbaking sheetbox grater
Tips
Use all-butter puff pastry for best flavor.
Substitute shallots with onions.
Use any mushroom variety such as cremini, chanterelle, or porcini.
Use fresh or dried thyme, or French/Italian herbs.
If out of balsamic vinegar, omit or use 1/2 tbsp soy sauce.
Substitute egg wash with heavy cream or milk.
Substitute Gruyere with Appenzeller, other Alpine-style cheeses, or sharp aged cheddar.
Do not slice mushrooms too thinly to ensure they remain crunchy.
Let mushrooms cool before assembly to prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy.
Serve with salad greens and tomatoes.
Can be cut into smaller squares or circles for individual tartlets.
Best eaten fresh; can be reheated in a microwave or oven.