Cheese Straws

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / Gas mark 6. Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
2. Unroll the puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Brush the surface with beaten egg.
3. If using, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the pastry.
4. Scatter the grated cheese evenly over half the pastry. Sprinkle with cayenne pepper or paprika.
5. Fold the uncovered half of the pastry over the cheese-covered half and press gently.
6. Brush the top with more beaten egg, then scatter over any remaining cheese.
7. Cut the pastry into strips roughly 1cm wide and twist each strip several times.
8. Lay the twists on the prepared baking trays and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp.
9. Leave to cool slightly on the tray before serving. Best eaten the same day.