Stuffed Greens Delight

Stuffed Greens Delight is a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh greens and a rich, savory filling. Combining tender leaves of swiss chard with a flavorful mixture of minced pork, rice, and aromatic vegetables, this recipe is both wholesome and hearty. The use of fresh herbs and spices adds a delightful complexity to the dish, making it an exceptional choice for any meal. Rolled and cooked to perfection, these parcels become a delightful medley of textures and tastes. The wrapping process enhances the aesthetics, giving the dish an elegant appearance. These rolls are gently browned in oil before being baked, infusing them with additional depth and richness. A light sauce made from the cooking juices elevates the flavor profile even further. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, Stuffed Greens Delight is sure to impress with its fresh taste and delightful aroma. This dish can be enjoyed by itself or paired with a variety of complementary side dishes for a more complete meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

800 g minced pork
1 cup cooked rice
3 finely chopped, sautéed onions
1 slice celery root (finely chopped and sautéed)
Large swiss chard or beet leaves

Spices and Condiments:

Salt
Ground black pepper
Oil (for frying and baking)

Preparation Time

Total time: 100 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Greens: Select large, undamaged swiss chard leaves. Gently flatten the stems using a meat tenderizer to soften them for rolling.
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix minced pork with cooked rice, sautéed onions, and diced celery root. Season the mixture with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
Shape the Rolls: Take a spoonful of the filling and place it in the center of a softened leaf. Carefully fold the edges over the filling and roll it tightly into a neat parcel.
Secure with Thread: If necessary, use a white kitchen thread to lightly secure the rolls, ensuring the leaves stay wrapped around the filling during cooking.
Heat the Oil: Preheat a large frying pan over medium heat, adding a bit of oil to prevent the rolls from sticking.
Brown the Rolls: Place the stuffed leaves in the hot pan and sear them until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). In a baking dish, drizzle a thin layer of oil over the base to help prevent sticking.
Arrange the Rolls: Carefully place the browned rolls into the baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly.
Flavor the Sauce: Surround the rolls with additional herbs and seasonings like bay leaves, peppercorns, sliced onions, carrots, and tomatoes for extra flavor.
Bake with Juices: Pour some water or broth over the rolls to create a cooking juice. Bake for about 60 minutes until the filling is cooked through and flavors meld.
Check Consistency: About halfway through baking, check the liquid level in the dish and add more if needed to keep the rolls moist.
Enhance the Sauce: Optionally, remove the rolls and add sour cream to the cooking juices, stirring well. Taste for seasoning adjustments.
Simmer the Sauce: Return the baking dish (after adding sour cream) to the oven for a few more minutes until the sauce bubbles and thickens slightly.
Resting Time: Allow the stuffed rolls to rest for a few minutes after baking for easier handling and enhanced flavor development.
Remove Thread: Gently remove any kitchen thread used to secure the rolls before serving.
Serve Warm: Plate the rolls and drizzle with the sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs for added aroma.
Pairing Suggestions: Consider serving alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread for contrast in textures.
Accompaniments: The rolls pair well with a light white wine or a sparkling water with citrus for a refreshing balance.
Storage Advice: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and are equally delicious when reheated.
Enjoy: Delight in these flavorful stuffed greens, appreciating the new dimensions of taste with each bite.

Tips

Substitutions: You can substitute swiss chard leaves with beet leaves if desired. Use a mix of pork and beef for a varied flavor.
Flavor Enhancements: Add fresh herbs like dill or thyme to the filling for added aroma.
Technique: Use a gentle rolling technique to avoid tearing the leaves.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 24g
Fats: 30g
Carbs: 20g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with a mix of mushrooms and tofu.
Gluten-Free: Ensure the rice and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Spicy Version: Add finely chopped chili peppers to the filling for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Accompanying Side Dishes: Serve with roasted vegetables or a tangy yogurt dip.
Garnishes: Top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Best Places

Green House Café - Known for its organic and locally sourced ingredients. Location: Market Street, San Francisco, USA.
Leafy Kitchen - A cozy spot for vegetable-forward dishes. Location: Princes Street, Edinburgh, Scotland.
Garden Fresh Bistro - Celebrated for its farm-to-table philosophy. Location: King Street, Toronto, Canada.
Vibrant Eats - Offers a menu rich with fresh and bold flavors. Location: Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
Urban Harvest - Renowned for creative, healthy dishes. Location: Alberni Street, Vancouver, Canada.
Earth & Plate - Focus on sustainable, seasonal produce. Location: Friedrichstrasse, Berlin, Germany.
Pure Greens Tavern - Freshness and flavor at their peak. Location: Ratchadamnoen Avenue, Bangkok, Thailand.
Verdant Plates - Bright and delicious green dishes. Location: George Street, Sydney, Australia.
Farm Table - Rustic dining with a contemporary twist. Location: Coffee Street, Seattle, USA.
The Herbary - Herb-infused, delightful dishes. Location: High Holborn, London, England.