Ham and cheese rolls

Ham and Cheese Rolls – A Quick Delight for Every Occasion

If you're looking for a simple, quick, and delicious recipe, ham and cheese rolls are the perfect choice! These tasty snacks are ideal for parties, picnics, or even a light dinner with family. Whether you enjoy them warm or cold, each bite will be a burst of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Let's discover together how to prepare these appetizing rolls!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 (8 rolls)

Ingredients you will need:
- 16 slices of ham (opt for a quality, smoked or cured variety)
- 16 slices of cheese (choose a cheese that melts easily, such as cow cheese or mozzarella)
- 1 red bell pepper (for added color and flavor)
- 4 pickles (for a touch of freshness and crunch)
- 2 eggs (to bind the mixture)
- Flour (about 100 g, to achieve the desired consistency)
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of the pan)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Toothpicks (to secure the rolls)

Preparing the ham and cheese rolls:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by having all the ingredients ready. Slice the bell pepper and pickles lengthwise into thin strips so they fit perfectly in the rolls. Make sure the slices of ham and cheese are at room temperature for easier handling.

2. Forming the rolls: Place a slice of cheese on top of a slice of ham. Add a strip of bell pepper and a piece of pickle, then carefully roll it up, ensuring the ingredients do not break. Secure each roll with a toothpick.

3. Preparing the batter: In a bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually add the flour, mixing until you achieve a smooth batter similar to pancake batter. The consistency should be fluid enough to coat the rolls but not too runny.

4. Frying the rolls: Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, take each roll, dip it in the prepared batter, and then place it in the pan. Fry the rolls until they are golden and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.

5. Draining the oil: Once the rolls are fried, remove them to a kitchen towel to absorb excess oil. This way, they will remain crispy and not feel heavy on the stomach.

6. Serving: You can serve the rolls hot, straight from the pan, alongside a yogurt dip or a light mayonnaise. Also, if you have leftovers, they are just as delicious cold, making them a perfect appetizer for snacking.

Useful tips and tricks:

- You can experiment with different types of ham and cheese, from turkey ham to feta cheese, depending on your preferences.
- Add spices or herbs to the egg batter to give it a more complex flavor. For example, a little garlic powder or chopped parsley can work wonders!
- If you want to make the rolls lighter, you can bake them in the oven instead of frying. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 200 degrees Celsius for 15-20 minutes or until golden.

Nutritional benefits:
Ham and cheese rolls contain protein from the ham and cheese, as well as vitamins and fiber from the bell pepper and pickles. You can adapt the recipe to make it healthier by using lean ham and low-fat cheese.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I prepare the rolls a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls a day in advance, but it's recommended to keep them in the refrigerator and fry them before serving to maintain their crispiness.

2. What other dips pair well with these rolls?
You can try dips like garlic sauce, spicy tomato sauce, or even a sweet mustard sauce, each bringing a different flavor note.

3. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of pickled ones?
Absolutely! You can use fresh vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, or zucchini to add a touch of freshness to the rolls.

Ham and cheese rolls are more than just a simple snack; they are a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Experiment with ingredients and find the combinations that delight your taste buds the most. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent with loved ones!