Chestnut Roll 'Rusalina'

Nuts are a versatile and delicious ingredient, and in this recipe, they play an essential role in creating a savory dessert. The first step is to lightly roast the nuts until they become golden and release their aroma. This process does not take long; just a few minutes over medium heat are enough to achieve an intense flavor. Once cooled, the nuts are finely ground, but not chopped, as the consistency is important for achieving a uniform base.

The next step involves caramelizing the sugar. In a saucepan, place the sugar over low heat and let it melt slowly. It is essential to pay attention to the color; when the sugar turns amber, it is time to add the ground nuts. Stir quickly to combine the two ingredients, ensuring that the nuts are well coated with caramel. After mixing, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the beaten egg. It is important to stir quickly to avoid the egg coagulating due to the heat, with the desired result being a smooth and fluid mixture.

Prepare a tray in advance by lining it with plastic wrap, foil, or damp parchment paper. Spoon the base mixture into the tray and, with wet hands, spread it evenly across the entire surface. It is recommended to work quickly to achieve a uniform base. Once finished, let the base cool to harden.

Meanwhile, start preparing the cream. Boil water together with sugar and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes. Be careful, if you boil it too long, the sugar will crystallize. Once the sugar has completely dissolved, add the two tablespoons of cocoa and mix vigorously until smooth. Once the mixture is uniform, remove it from the heat and add the butter. Stir continuously to melt it, then let the cream cool. Once cool, whip the cream with a mixer until it becomes lighter in color and fluffy.

Now it’s time to assemble the roll. Take the base from the fridge and place a log of chestnut puree at its edge. Spread the cocoa cream over the entire surface of the base, leaving 1 cm free at the opposite edge. Using the plastic wrap, carefully roll the base, tightening well at the ends to form a tight roll. Place the roll in the freezer to harden.

For serving, place the roll on a bed of whipped cream, giving it an elegant appearance. You can decorate it with crushed caramelized sugar or leave it simple, allowing the ingredients to shine through on their own. If you prefer, the roll can be kept in the fridge and covered with whipped cream, especially if the chestnut puree is denser. This recipe is not only delicious but also impressive, perfect for any special occasion.