Puff Paste, Pats Feuilletee

Ingredients

• 1 pint of flour
• 1 pound of good butter (or half lard and half butter)
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of ice water
• 1 egg

Directions

1. Ensure the flour is dry and fresh, and the butter is very fresh.

2. Wash the butter until it is clear and elastic, then cut it into four equal parts and chill in a bowl.

3. Sift the flour into a bowl and add one piece of butter, working it lightly with your hands.

4. Add the beaten egg and salt, and if desired, a teaspoon of sugar for sweet paste.

5. Gradually add the ice water, mixing lightly until combined.

6. Knead the dough lightly for about five minutes, similar to making bread.

7. Divide the dough in half, sprinkle a board with flour, and roll each half into a thin sheet.

8. Break the remaining butter into pieces and spread a quarter over one sheet, then lightly dust with flour.

9. Place the second sheet on top, dust with flour, and pound lightly with a rolling pin.

10. Roll the dough into a long thin sheet, spread a thin layer of butter, and fold from the sides to the center, then back again.