Gruyere and Parmesan Allumettes

aka fancy cheese straws

110g/4oz Gruyere, finely grated
25g/1 oz freshly grated Parmesan
110g/4oz strong white flour
75g/ 3 oz butter, diced
a pinch of cayenne pepper
seasoning
a little beaten egg

Put the flour, Gruyere, butter and seasonings into a medium-sized bowl, then rub in until the mixture starts to form clumps. Form into a ball. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes (optional but I think it makes it easier).

Preheat oven to 180C/Gas mark 4. Grease two baking sheets.

Transfer the dough to a flour-dusted board or surface, knead lightly again, then roll out into an oblong approx 20x30cm. Trim the edges. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with Parmesan. Cut into allumettes/straws 5mm wide and 10cm long - or any other length you like! Use a palette knife to transfer to the greased baking sheet and spread out a little if you can be bothered.

Bake for 15 minutes, then cool on a wire rack and store in an airtight tin.