Blue cordon from pickled cucumbers

Pickled Cucumber Cordon Bleu

In a world full of elaborate recipes, Pickled Cucumber Cordon Bleu is a delicious and surprising option that combines the freshness of vegetables with the intense and savory taste of smoked ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a light main course, and its preparation is so simple that you can learn it quickly. I invite you to discover each step of this captivating recipe and enjoy a delicious result!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 12 pickled gherkin cucumbers
- 150 g smoked tenderloin or bacon
- 150 g cheese
- 3 eggs
- 2 bell peppers
- Flour (approximately 100 g)
- Breadcrumbs (approximately 100 g)
- 2 teaspoons black sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Mixed pepper (to taste)
- Oil for frying

Short History

Cordon Bleu is a classic dish often associated with meat, but its reinterpretation with vegetable ingredients brings a fresh and innovative note. This pickled cucumber cordon bleu recipe is inspired by the idea of combining flavors and textures, creating a dish that delights the senses. The pickled cucumbers offer a perfect contrast between sour and salty, while the rich filling of bacon and cheese transforms each bite into an explosion of flavors.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the cucumbers
Start by cutting the ends of the cucumbers. Use an apple corer to remove the insides of the cucumbers. This will make room for the filling. Once done, wash the cucumbers well with cold water and let them drain to remove excess liquid.

2. The filling
Cut the smoked tenderloin or bacon into strips the length of the cucumbers. Similarly, cut the cheese and bell peppers into strips. These ingredients will add a rich taste and pleasant texture to the dish.

3. Filling the cucumbers
Insert a piece of bacon, a piece of cheese, and a piece of bell pepper into each cucumber. Ensure that the filling is well compacted, and the cucumber remains whole.

4. Preparing for frying
In a bowl, beat the eggs together with paprika and pepper. This mixture will give a beautiful color and delicious taste to the crust. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the black sesame seeds, which will add extra crunch.

5. Coating the ingredients
Coating the cucumbers in flour, beaten egg, and then in the breadcrumb and sesame mixture is essential for achieving a perfect crust. Ensure that each cucumber is well covered on the outside.

6. Frying
Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the stuffed cucumbers and fry them until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan to allow for even frying.

7. Draining excess oil
After frying, remove the cucumbers onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the excess oil.

Serving

Pickled Cucumber Cordon Bleu can be served warm or cold. It pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with dill that complements the rich taste of the filling. Additionally, this dish goes well with a cold beer or a fragrant white wine.

Practical Tips

- Choose quality cucumbers: Gherkin cucumbers are best for this recipe, but you can experiment with other pickled varieties that have an intense flavor.
- Filling varieties: Instead of bacon, you can use ham, chicken breast, or even a vegetarian option with smoked tofu. You can also replace the cheese with feta or mozzarella for a different texture.
- Control the oil: Make sure the oil is well heated before adding the cucumbers to achieve a crispy crust and prevent excessive oil absorption.

Nutritional Benefits

Cucumbers are low in calories, making this dish a lighter choice for those watching their diet. Bacon or smoked tenderloin adds protein, while cheese brings calcium and vitamins. Additionally, black sesame is an excellent source of antioxidants and minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh cucumbers?
Although the recipe is based on pickled cucumbers, you can experiment with fresh cucumbers, but you will need to brine them in salt to add a similar taste.

2. How long can I keep Pickled Cucumber Cordon Bleu?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, but it is recommended to consume them fresh for a crispy texture.

3. What other sauces pair well with this dish?
You can try a garlic yogurt sauce, mayonnaise with mustard, or even a spicy tomato sauce to enhance the flavor.

Pickled Cucumber Cordon Bleu is a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for special occasions or simply to indulge in something delicious. Taste and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!