Cordon Bleu with carrot garnish and mashed potatoes

Cordon Bleu with Carrot Garnish and Mashed Potatoes

Cordon bleu is a classic recipe loved by all who enjoy meat dishes wrapped in a crispy crust, with a delicious and juicy interior. This recipe for cordon bleu with carrot garnish and mashed potatoes is a true feast for the taste buds, offering a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. Whether it's a family dinner or a special lunch, this dish is sure to impress.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients for Cordon Bleu:
- 1 large chicken breast (approximately 600g)
- 6 slices of cheese
- 6 slices of pressed ham
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 4 tablespoons of breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons of sesame seeds
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of the pan)

Ingredients for Carrot Garnish:
- 1 kg carrots
- 1 large onion
- 2 tablespoons of margarine
- 200 ml of sweet cooking cream
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 cube of vegetable stock (or to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes:
- 1,500 g potatoes
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- A cup of milk (approximately 100 ml)

1. Preparing the Cordon Bleu:

Start by slicing the chicken breast into 6 thin fillets. It is essential that the slices are even for uniform cooking. Use a meat mallet or a flat spatula to gently pound each fillet, making it thinner and more tender. Season with salt and pepper.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to save time, you can ask the butcher to slice the chicken breast into thin slices.
- Be careful not to pound the meat too much, as it may dry out.

On each chicken fillet, place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese. Fold each fillet in half, ensuring that the filling does not leak during cooking. Press the edges well to seal.

In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. Prepare three deep plates: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with sesame seeds. Dip each cordon bleu in flour, then in the egg, and finally in the sesame breadcrumbs, ensuring each side is well coated.

Personal note:
Adding sesame not only provides a crunchy texture but also a unique flavor!

Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the cordon bleus for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. When done, transfer them to a paper towel to remove excess oil.

2. Preparing the Carrot Garnish:

Peel and wash the carrots, then slice them into thin rounds. In a large pan, melt the margarine over medium heat. Add the carrots and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become slightly caramelized.

Add the finely chopped onion and continue sautéing for another 2-3 minutes. Pour water over the carrots, enough to cover them, and let them simmer on low heat until soft. When ready, add the vegetable stock cube, salt, flour mixed with sweet cream, and mix well. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken the sauce, then sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.

3. Preparing the Mashed Potatoes:

Meanwhile, peel the potatoes, cut them into cubes, and boil them in salted water until soft. Drain the water and mash them using a potato masher or blender. Gradually add the butter and milk, mixing continuously until you achieve a creamy and airy mash.

Serving:

On each plate, place a generous portion of mashed potatoes, add 2 tablespoons of carrot garnish with sauce, and finish with a crispy cordon bleu.

Serving suggestion:
For an extra touch of freshness, you can add a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers on the side, which will perfectly balance the flavors of the dish.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey meat is an excellent alternative, offering a similar taste but with lower fat content.

2. How can I make the cordon bleu healthier?
You can bake the cordon bleu instead of frying it, using oil spray to coat it. You can also opt for whole grain breadcrumbs or ground oats.

3. Is this recipe suitable for children?
Absolutely! Cordon bleu is a dish that children will love due to its delicious flavor and crispy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken breast, while the carrots provide important vitamins and minerals. The mashed potatoes offer complex carbohydrates that provide energy, making this dish a satisfying and nourishing option.

In conclusion, this recipe for cordon bleu with carrot garnish and mashed potatoes is not only delicious but also an excellent choice for any meal. I invite you to try this simple recipe and impress your family or friends with your culinary skills!