Pâté Chaud Recipe (Patê Sô / Vietnamese Meat Pastries)

Jump to recipe

Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Vietnamese cuisine with our Pâté Chaud recipe, also known as Patê Sô. This beloved dish marries the delicate flakiness of French pastry with the rich, savory fillings of Vietnamese cooking, creating a fusion that’s both comforting and exotic. Pâté Chaud, or Vietnamese meat pastries, are a perfect blend of East meets West, offering a delightful taste experience that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or new to Vietnamese flavors, this recipe will guide you through crafting these irresistible pastries, making them the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. From the golden, buttery crust to the flavorful, meaty filling, each bite of Pâté Chaud is a testament to the harmonious blend of cultures and tastes that define this exquisite dish.

What Is Pâté Chaud Recipe?

Pâté Chaud features layers of crunchy, golden puff pastry enveloping a mixture of ground meat and aromatic vegetables. When you take a bite, the crisp puff pastry gives way to reveal the rich, umami interior. Each component complements the other for a mouthwatering experience.

This pastry is the perfect balance of savory and sweet:

• The flaky puff pastry provides buttery, sweet notes
• While the meat filling delivers hearty, savory flavors

With its complex yet balanced profile, Pâté Chaud has become a classic Vietnamese staple. Its portability makes it ideal for breakfast, parties, or a midday snack.

History and Cultural Significance

Pâté Chaud reflects both French and Vietnamese influences. Its origins trace back to France’s colonial presence in Vietnam. Over time, the French pâté recipe was adapted with local seasonings and ingredients, evolving into a Vietnamese specialty.

Regional variations reflect this blend of cultures:

• Northern versions feature bold black pepper and fish sauce
• Southern renditions include lemongrass, chili, and kaffir lime

Despite these localized differences, Pâté Chaud is cherished across Vietnam. Its flaky texture and satisfying savoriness appeal to Vietnamese palates and culinary traditions. The pastry embodies cultural fusion at its finest.

Ingredients

Pâté Chaud consists of two main components:

• Flaky puff pastry – Providing crunch
• Savory meat filling – Offering rich, umami flavor

Here is an overview of key ingredients and quantities:

Puff Pastry

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed – Forms the exterior crust

Meat Filling

• 1 pound ground pork – Primary filling ingredient
• 1 yellow onion, diced – Aromatic base
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Added flavor
• 1 egg – Binder

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons fish sauce – Salty, umami flavor
• 1 teaspoon sugar – Balances savory notes
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Spicy accent
• Pinch of salt – Enhances overall flavors

Customizations and substitutions will be suggested later to adapt this recipe to specific needs and preferences. First, let’s walk through the cooking process.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Follow these instructions for perfect Pâté Chaud every time:

Prep the Pastry

• Thaw 2 sheets frozen puff pastry overnight in the refrigerator or for 1 hour at room temperature.

Prepare the Filling

• Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a skillet over medium heat until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Let cool slightly.
• Combine the cooked onion and garlic with the ground pork, egg, and seasonings in a mixing bowl.
• Use your hands to thoroughly mix until well-incorporated.

Assemble the Pastries

• Roll out each pastry sheet into a 6 x 10 inch rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
• Scoop half the filling onto each rectangle, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
• Using your fingers, press down firmly on the filling to pack it into a compact shape.
• Brush the border edges with egg wash or water to help sealing.
• Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges with a fork to seal. Use a knife to trim any uneven edges.

Bake

• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• Brush egg wash over the top of each pastry. Make 2-3 small slits for vents.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
• Let cool slightly before serving warm.

The pastry is ready when the crust is crisp and flaky and the center is hot. Adjust baking time as needed for your oven.

Now that you know the basics, let’s explore ways to put your own spin on this versatile recipe.

Variations and Substitutions

While the classic version uses pork, Pâté Chaud can be made with various meats:

Fillings:

• Chicken
• Turkey
• Beef
• Vegetables for a meatless version

Seasonings:

• Lemongrass and chili paste for Southern flavors
• Cilantro, basil, mint, or cumin for a fresh twist

You can also substitute puff pastry with:

• Phyllo dough
• Pie crust
• Croissants

Use this framework as a springboard for customizing Pâté Chaud to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Pâté Chaud is commonly served with Vietnamese coffee for a sweet counterpoint to the pastry’s savory profile.

Beyond the classic coffee accompaniment, Pâté Chaud pairs wonderfully with:

• Fruit jam – Bold flavors like strawberry, apricot, or fig
• Hot sauce – For extra heat and complexity
• Fish sauce – To double down on umami
• Herb garnish – Cilantro, basil, or mint

Complex beverages like black tea, dark beer, or full-bodied red wine also complement its multilayered flavors.

For a complete meal, enjoy Pâté Chaud with:

• Salad – Spinach, carrot, cabbage, or herb
• Soup – Tomato, miso, mushroom, or chicken
• Spring rolls – For an array of textures

Storage and Reheating

To store: Allow pastries to cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

To reheat: Bake chilled pastries at 300°F for 10 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving is not recommended, as it will soften the pastry.