Chicken rolls with sweet potato puree

Chicken rolls with sweet potato puree

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

In the culinary world, few combinations are as delightful as those between meat and vegetables. Chicken rolls stuffed with ham and cheese, served alongside creamy sweet potato puree, are not only a delicious choice but also a nutritious option. Sweet potatoes, with their velvety texture and slightly sweet flavor, add extra value to this dish. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Moreover, sweet potato puree is a refined alternative to classic mashed potatoes.

A bit of history

Sweet potatoes have been cultivated for thousands of years and are appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional contribution. Unlike regular potatoes, which grow underground, sweet potatoes grow on vines, giving them a unique texture and flavor profile. They are a rich source of beta-carotene, which contributes to eye health and immunity.

Ingredients

*For the chicken rolls:*
- 8 thin slices of chicken breast
- 8 slices of pressed ham
- 8 slices of cow cheese, Penteleu type
- 3 eggs
- Flour, enough to coat the rolls
- Breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley

*For the sweet potato puree:*
- 1 kg of sweet potatoes
- 100 ml of milk
- 60 g of butter (plus a few knobs of butter, optional)
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (optional)

Preparation

1. Preparing the sweet potato puree

a. Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into large, even pieces. This will ensure even cooking.

b. Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot, add cold water to cover them, and a good pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, until they are easily pierced with a knife.

c. Once the potatoes are ready, mash them through a sieve or use a special masher. If you want an extremely fine puree, you can pass them again through the sieve with a spatula.

d. Meanwhile, heat the milk in a small pot, but do not bring it to a boil.

e. In a non-stick pan, mix the potato puree over very low heat to dry it out a bit. Then, remove the pan from the heat and add the butter. Stir well with a wooden spoon until the butter is completely melted.

f. Add the warm milk gradually, continuing to mix until the puree becomes creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and for an exceptional flavor, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard if desired.

2. Preparing the chicken rolls

a. Place the slices of chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a mallet to flatten evenly. This step will help them cook evenly and make the meat more tender.

b. Rub each slice of meat with salt and pepper, then place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each.

c. Roll each slice of meat, ensuring the filling is well wrapped, and secure the rolls with a toothpick.

d. In a bowl, beat the eggs together with a pinch of salt, pepper, and dried parsley.

e. Dredge the rolls in flour, then in the egg, and finally in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well coated.

f. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the rolls in hot oil for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove the rolls to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

3. Serving

a. Arrange the chicken rolls on a platter and serve them warm alongside the sweet potato puree. You can add a few knobs of butter on top of the puree for extra flavor.

Useful tips

- If you want to reduce calories, you can bake the rolls instead of frying them. Place them in a baking dish lined with parchment paper, lightly brush with olive oil, and bake in a preheated oven at 200 °C for about 25-30 minutes.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, to change the flavor of the rolls.
- If you have leftover sweet potato puree, it can also be used as a filling for pancakes or pies.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, but keep in mind that the puree will have a different taste and will be less sweet.

- How can I make the chicken rolls less fatty?
You can bake the rolls instead of frying them or use skinless chicken breast for a leaner option.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?
A fresh green salad and a glass of dry white wine or lemonade will perfectly complement the meal.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and contains fiber and vitamins from the sweet potatoes. Each serving of chicken rolls with sweet potato puree offers about 500-600 calories, depending on the cooking method and specific ingredients used. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.

Conclusion

Chicken rolls with sweet potato puree are not only a tasty dish but also a healthy choice for family meals. This simple and quick recipe, full of flavors and textures, will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Don't hesitate to experiment and add a personal touch, so each meal is unique and memorable. Enjoy your meal!