Cordon bleu

Cordon Bleu - A Crispy Delicacy with Savory Filling

Cordon Bleu is a dish that has won the hearts of food lovers around the world. This delicious recipe combines juicy chicken breast with salty ham and creamy cheese, all covered with a golden, crispy crust. It is a perfect dish for family dinners as well as special occasions. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step, providing useful tips and details about the ingredients to achieve a perfect Cordon Bleu.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 3

Ingredients:
- 3 slices of chicken breast
- 3 slices of ham (preferably prosciutto or quality ham)
- 3 slices of cheese (you can use Gouda or Emmental for a richer flavor)
- 1 egg
- 50 g flour
- 100 g breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (or butter for a richer flavor)

Preparing Cordon Bleu:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
To achieve a delicious Cordon Bleu, it is essential to have quality ingredients. Choose fresh chicken breast, without signs of freezing, which will be tender and juicy. Ensure that the ham and cheese are sliced thinly for easy wrapping around the chicken.

Step 2: Flattening the chicken breast
Thick slices of chicken breast can make the dish too difficult to cook evenly. Use a meat mallet or a meat tenderizer to thin the chicken slices, so they have an even thickness of about 1 cm. This will help with even cooking and make them easier to roll.

Step 3: Filling and rolling
After flattening the chicken, season it with salt and pepper on both sides. Place a slice of ham and then a slice of cheese on each piece of chicken. Carefully roll the chicken, starting from one side, tightly to keep the filling inside. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the roll.

Step 4: Coating the rolls
Prepare three bowls: one with flour, another with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs. Dip each roll in flour, ensuring it is evenly coated, then immerse it in the beaten egg, and finally roll it in breadcrumbs. This will create a crispy, golden crust.

Step 5: Cooking
Heat olive oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken rolls, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy. If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the Cordon Bleu in the oven at 200°C for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through.

Step 6: Serving
Cordon Bleu is best served hot, alongside delicious sides. A perfect combination would be oven-baked potato wedges, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, along with a fresh vegetable salad. You can add a garlic mayonnaise or tartar sauce for an extra flavor boost.

PRACTICAL TIPS:
1. Filling: Experiment with different fillings! You can add sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or even olives for an explosion of flavors.
2. Oven version: If you want to avoid frying, Cordon Bleu can be prepared in the oven with a layer of cheese on top for a richer taste.
3. Caring for Cordon Bleu: If using toothpicks to hold the roll, remember to remove them before serving!
4. Sides: Try serving Cordon Bleu with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why is my cheese leaking from the roll? Make sure the roll is tightly secured and that the cheese slices are thin. Try using a cheese that melts well but is not too moist.
2. Can I use another type of meat? Yes! You can try using pork or beef, adjusting the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat.
3. How can I save a Cordon Bleu if it opened during cooking? Don’t worry! You can use a fork to gently press it down and keep it closed, and at the end, add a little cheese sauce to hide it.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g

Cordon Bleu is not only a tasty dish but also a pleasant memory for many of us, reminding us of family meals, holidays, or special moments spent with loved ones. Try this recipe at home, experiment with the ingredients, and make it your favorite recipe! Don’t forget to enjoy every bite, as cooking is more than an activity – it is an art and a way to bring joy into daily life. Bon appétit!