Pork Rolls with Almond and Apricot Stuffing

This delightful pork roll recipe combines the succulent flavors of pork with the nutty creaminess of almonds and the sweet tang of dried apricots. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, these rolls are stuffed with a tempting filling that features your favorite fresh cheese, accented with tomatoes and paprika. Lightly seasoned with sage, salt, and pepper, the rolls are then stewed alongside juicy apples for an added burst of freshness. The dish is relatively easy to prepare and makes use of everyday ingredients that you likely have on hand. The final dish is enhanced by a savory apple sauce, created from the stewed apples, adding a sweet undertone to the otherwise savory rolls. The pork, tenderized and wrapped snugly with twine, is seared to golden perfection, ensuring a juicy center. Every bite gives a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, complemented by the aromatic presence of roasted peppers. It's a dish that appeals to both the taste buds and the senses, making it an irresistible choice for any meal occasion.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Pork cutlets (amount as per serving size)
• Equal parts almonds and dried apricots
• Fresh cheese (preferred with tomatoes and paprika)
• Apples (any kind)
• Mustard

Spices:

• Salt
• Pepper
• Sage (or spices of choice)
• Red bell pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Slice the pork into even pieces. Tenderize each slice with a meat mallet until they are thin.
2. Rub each piece lightly with mustard.
3. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and any preferred spices over the meat. Let it rest.
4. Roast the almonds until they're lightly browned.
5. Grind the roasted almonds and dried apricots together using a meat grinder.
6. Add the ground spices, fresh cheese, and chopped red bell pepper to the almond-apricot mixture. Stir until the mixture is thick but easy to spread.
7. Spread a generous amount of the stuffing mixture onto each piece of meat.
8. Roll each pork slice tightly around the filling. Repeat for all pieces.
9. Tie the rolls with kitchen twine to secure them during cooking.
10. In a pan, add a small amount of oil and place the pork rolls in it.
11. Chop the apples, removing the cores (peels can be left on or removed, as preferred) and arrange over the pork.
12. Season the mixture with sage and additional pepper.
13. Add a small amount of water (around 50 ml) to start the apple juices flowing.
14. Cover the pan and let simmer over low heat.
15. Add any remaining bell pepper to the pan if desired for extra aroma.
16. Simmer everything for about 30 minutes until the pork is fully cooked.
17. Remove the pork rolls and cut away the twine.
18. In a separate pan, add a little oil and brown the already cooked rolls for added flavor.
19. Serve the rolls hot alongside the apple sauce.
20. To prepare the sauce, strain the remaining apple mixture through a coarse sieve, creating a smooth, savory sauce to accompany the meat.

Tips

• Substitutions: For a lighter version, use chicken breast instead of pork.
• Cheese Variations: Replace fresh cheese with cream cheese for a richer flavor.
• Cooking Tips: Ensure the meat is thinly cut for even cooking and easy rolling.

Nutritions

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbs: 30g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use a filling of cooked quinoa or bulgur with nuts and apricots wrapped in large eggplant slices.
• Dietary Customization: Substitute almonds with sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh garden salad.
• Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay, to complement the dish's flavors.

Best Places

• The Pork Delight House - A unique dining experience for pork lovers. Location: 123 Food Lane, New York, USA.
• Classic Pork Diner - Traditional recipes with a modern twist. Location: 45 Culinary Street, London, England.
• Gourmet Eats - Known for their innovative take on classic dishes. Location: 78 Chef’s Blvd, Paris, France.
• The Savory Table - Home of sophisticated and flavorful pork dishes. Location: 90 Delish Drive, Toronto, Canada.
• Taste of Tradition - Rooted in authentic, homestyle cooking. Location: 22 Flavor Avenue, Rome, Italy.
• Culinary Creations - Offering exceptional service and delightful menus. Location: 55 Bistro Road, Sydney, Australia.
• The Larder’s Choice - A vibrant spot for premier international cuisine. Location: 36 Tasty Terrace, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Carnivore’s Haven - Celebrating the art of meat dishes with flair. Location: 66 Meat Street, Tokyo, Japan.
• Epicurean Delights - A high-end spot for discerning palates. Location: 88 Main Course Lane, Mumbai, India.
• Flavors of the World - Bringing global dishes to local tables with finesse. Location: 11 World Way, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.