Bacon-Wrapped Meat Roll with Plums and Cheese

This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of beef and pork, wrapped in savory bacon, with a surprising twist of sweet plums and creamy feta cheese at its core. It’s a recipe that balances hearty and light ingredients perfectly, creating a mouth-watering main course that's perfect for any occasion. The preparation involves a meticulously seasoned meat mixture, hand-rolled and filled with a medley of ingredients that delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. The dish is both comforting and sophisticated, highlighting the contrast between the crisp outer bacon layer and the soft, flavorful interior. Serve it alongside a variety of side dishes, and you'll have a feast that appeals to all senses. The process to make this meat roll is straightforward, yet attention to detail and patience during preparation will yield the best results. Those new to cooking might find it a bit challenging, but the effort is worthwhile. Moreover, the recipe allows for flexibility in ingredients, making it adaptable to personal tastes and preferences. Lastly, it is a visually impressive dish that never fails to impress guests at the dinner table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

800 g ground beef
400 g ground pork
1 onion
3 cloves garlic
1 egg
1 bunch of dill
3 tbsp breadcrumbs
1 tbsp mustard
1 tsp pepper
Salt to taste
200 g bacon slices

For the Filling

150 g feta cheese
2 handfuls of dried prunes
2 boiled carrots
160 g cheese

Preparation Time

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

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ground beef and pork with half of the chopped dill. Add salt, pepper, grated onion, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and mustard. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
Form the Meat Roll: On a sheet of baking paper, spread the meat mixture into a rectangular shape. Sprinkle the remaining chopped dill evenly over the surface.
Prepare the Prunes: Soak the prunes in warm water until they’re plump and soft, then drain and dry them.
Fill the Meat Roll: Arrange the boiled carrots, plump prunes, and crumbled feta cheese in a line down the center of the meat mixture. Grate the second cheese and sprinkle over everything.
Roll the Meat: Carefully roll the meat around the filling, sealing the edges tightly to keep the mixture intact.
Wrap in Bacon: Lay bacon slices over the rolled meat, wrapping it completely. This will add flavor and moisture during baking.
Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a baking dish with butter, place the bacon-wrapped roll inside, and cover with foil.
Initial Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 minutes under the foil.
Remove the Foil: After 30 minutes, remove the foil from the pan.
Add Potatoes: If desired, add some potatoes around the meat roll in the pan.
Final Baking: Return the pan to the oven without foil and bake for another 40 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the meat is cooked through.
Remove from Oven: Carefully take the pan out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Slice and Serve: Slice the meat roll and arrange on a platter. Serve with your preferred side dishes.
Enjoy: Bon Appétit!

Tips

Substitute Ingredients: If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
Binding Agent: Make sure to beat the egg well before adding it to the meat mixture; it acts as a binder to hold everything together.
Moisture Maintenance: Wrapping the meat roll in bacon not only adds taste but also prevents the meat from drying out.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 480 kcal per serving
Protein: 35 g
Fats: 35 g
Carbs: 15 g

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with a mix of mushrooms, lentils, and chopped nuts and omit the bacon.
Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a lower-carb option.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Garnishes: Garnish with fresh dill or parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.
Pair with Wine: A robust red wine such as a Cabernet Sauvignon complements the dish nicely.

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