A Good Holiday Choux

Holiday parties are nothing without fancy croquembouche or cheese puffs. However the key to both successful ones starts with a good choux paste. Don't panic though because of the name .It may sound fancy and French however the dough is simple to make.

It was the topic of David Tanis' A City Kitchen  in yesterday's New York Times Dining section.He has had experience in making the paste simply called pate a choux.it is made with a water , butter, flour and a few eggs.It's basically melting butter and water together  and then adding white flour followed b y a few eggs for color.It is then allowed to cool and put into a pastry bag. You can also use envelopes surprisingly, along with sandwich bags  for piping. If you're making cream puffs, then nix the bag,Use a tablespoon instead for a more rounded ,fuller puff.


What to stuff into a choux puff?Mr. Tanis recommends having them with a light sweetened cream  and then topped with confectioner's sugar.Another version required just pearlized sugar sprinkled on them before baking. However you can also fill them with a variety of puddings for a fun croquembuche.Choux puffs also make good hors d'ouevres. Have them cold with lobster or crab salad  or a tasty Gruyere . For cheese and even meat choux pieces  you can bake them in the oven again. Even though it was suggested you can also have dipping sauces too.

Choux puffs are a wonderful holiday addition to any table. Have them stuffed with salads,meat or cheese  for a tasty appetizer or with puddings and creams for a fancy dessert. They give a certain sophistication to any party or gathering