A delightful fish-filled pastry roll paired with a rich cheese sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
Ensure the oven is fully preheated to achieve a golden and crisp pastry.
Roll out the defrosted puff pastry into a rectangle, approximately 12 x 14 inches.
Use a lightly floured surface to prevent the pastry from sticking.
Combine the cooked fish fillets, chopped gherkins, and onion in a bowl. Mix gently and season with salt and pepper.
Be gentle when mixing to keep the fish pieces intact.
Spread the fish mixture evenly over the puff pastry and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Leave a small border around the edges to make rolling easier.
Roll up the pastry firmly, place it in a buttered baking dish, and brush with beaten egg.
Brush the edges with a little water to seal the roll.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat slightly and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
Keep an eye on the pastry to avoid over-browning.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter, stir in the flour, and cook for a minute. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly, and bring to a boil.
Stir continuously to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Remove from heat, add the grated cheddar cheese, and stir until melted. Season with cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.
Serve the pastry roll on a heated platter, garnished with parsley, alongside the cheese sauce.
A fresh green salad makes a perfect accompaniment to this dish.