Pork Rolls in Puff Pastry

This recipe for pork rolls in puff pastry features succulent pork cutlets, paired with a delicious cheese filling, all wrapped up in crisp, flaky pastry. The rolls are seasoned to perfection with mustard, cumin, and a mixed seed topping, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor. This dish is perfect for an elegant dinner serving or even as a hearty appetizer for a special occasion. The preparation is straightforward, and the ingredients are easily accessible. While it requires a bit of assembly, the end result is rewarding and visually impressive. The pastry seals in the juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. This recipe also adapts well to creative variations, allowing you to switch up the ingredients for different tastes. Plus, it is a great make-ahead option, freeing you up to focus on other meal preparations. The golden puff pastry is guaranteed to elicit 'wow' reactions from your guests!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 kg pork cutlets
200 g cheese (Maasdam)
1 package puff pastry (typically 4-5 sheets per package)
1 egg

Spices and Sauces

10 g cumin
10-15 g mixed seed blend
Salt
Pepper
Russian mustard to taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Pork Cutlets: Begin by slicing the pork into 10 equal cutlets, each approximately 100 g. Use a meat mallet to pound each piece thin on both sides. This helps tenderize the meat and ensures even cooking.
Season the Cutlets: Liberally sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper to taste. Follow with a uniform coating of Russian mustard. Adjust the amount of mustard according to your taste preference, balancing the spice.
Cheese Filling: Grate the Maasdam cheese finely. This will be used to fill the meat rolls, offering a deliciously creamy center when cooked.
Assemble the Rolls: Place a small portion of grated cheese onto each seasoned pork slice. Roll each slice snugly, like a burrito, ensuring that the cheese is safely encased within the pork to prevent leakage during baking.
Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets into thin strips and cut each sheet in half to obtain enough pieces for all pork rolls. Carefully wrap each meat roll with pastry, fully encasing the pork.
Egg Wash Preparation: In a bowl, whisk an egg with a splash of cold water. This egg wash will give the rolls an attractive golden brown finish.
Brush with Egg Wash: Using a brush, lightly coat the surface of each pastry-wrapped roll with the egg wash. This helps the seasonings adhere and enhances browning during baking.
Season the Rolls: Sprinkle the tops of the rolls generously with cumin and a mixed seed blend, offering a nutty flavor and exciting texture.
Baking: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Arrange the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring adequate space for even cooking and browning.
Cook the Rolls: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes. Watch closely towards the end of the baking time; the rolls should be a beautiful golden brown when done.
Cool Briefly: Remove the rolls from the oven, allowing them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This lets the juices redistribute, enhancing flavor and texture.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate the rolls on a serving dish and enjoy as part of a meal or as an appetizer.

Tips

Cheese Alternatives: Consider using cheddar or Gruyère for a different cheese flavor.
Prevent Sogginess: Ensure meat is fully encased to prevent cheese leakage, which can cause soggy pastry.
Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary inside the rolls for additional flavor.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 25g
Fats: 30g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

Dietary Adjustments: Substitute pork with chicken breast for a leaner option.
Vegetarian Option: Use grilled vegetables and cheese as filling instead of meat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad and a light vinaigrette.
Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Accompany with a chilled glass of white wine.

Best Places

Chez Janou - Offers a cozy setting and Provencal specialties. Location: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, Paris, France.
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White Rabbit - Combines Russian cuisine with modern twists. Location: Smolenskaya Square, Moscow, Russia.
Narisawa - Blends French techniques with Japanese ingredients. Location: 2 Chome-7-2, Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo, Japan.
Eleven Madison Park - Famous for plant-based gourmet dining. Location: 11 Madison Ave, New York City, USA.
El Celler de Can Roca - Known for creative interpretations of Catalan cuisine. Location: Carrer de Can Sunyer, Girona, Spain.
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