Puff Paste

Ingredients

• 4 scant cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 beaten egg
• ½ cup ice water
• 2 cups butter

Directions

1. Sift flour and salt onto a marble slab or large platter.

2. Make a hole in the center and pour in the beaten egg mixed with ice water.

3. Stir lightly with a knife or your fingertips, adding more ice water if necessary.

4. Soften the butter in cold water until elastic, washing hands in hot and then cold water to prevent sticking.

5. Place the dough on a floured board and divide it into 2 parts.

6. Roll each part into a square sheet about ½ inch thick.

7. Break the butter into pieces and place on one sheet of dough, dredge with flour, and cover with the other sheet.

8. Pound lightly with a rolling pin, then roll out into a lengthwise sheet.

9. Fold the sides and ends, turn the dough halfway around, and pound lightly again.

10. Repeat this process twice, dredging the board with flour as needed.

11. Cover and chill until thoroughly cold, then roll out and fold again three times, returning to ice each time.

12. Ensure the mixing bowl and flour are chilled before use.