Carrot and Cheese Roll

This Carrot and Cheese Roll is a savory and creamy dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the richness of cheeses and the fresh taste of green onions and dill. It’s a unique and flavorful appetizer or side dish that can be served on special occasions or as a hearty snack. With ingredients like cream cheese, hard cheese, and mayonnaise, this roll is both creamy and indulgent. The eggs and butter add a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the green onions and dill bring a refreshing hint of flavor. The vibrant orange color of the carrots makes this dish visually appealing as well, perfect for impressing your guests.

This dish is easy to prepare and doesn’t require many ingredients, making it both budget-friendly and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a creative side dish, this carrot and cheese roll will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • Carrots: 500 g, peeled and grated
  • Eggs: 3 large
  • Hard cheese: 70 g, grated (use cheddar, gouda, or any cheese that melts well)
  • Cream cheese or processed cheese: 180 g
  • Mayonnaise: 3-4 tablespoons
  • Green onions: 50 g, finely chopped
  • Dill: A handful, finely chopped
  • Butter: 50 g
  • Vegetable oil: For frying
  • Salt: To taste
  • Black pepper: To taste

Instructions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots
  1. Grate the carrots: Start by peeling and grating 500 g of fresh carrots using a coarse grater. The grated carrots will serve as the base for the roll.
  2. Cook the carrots: In a large pan, heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the grated carrots and sauté them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The carrots should soften but not become mushy. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Add butter: Once the carrots have softened, stir in 50 g of butter. The butter will add richness to the carrots and help them become more cohesive for the roll. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat and allow the carrots to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
  1. Grate the hard cheese: Grate 70 g of your favorite hard cheese, such as cheddar or gouda. Set the grated cheese aside.
  2. Mix the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the grated hard cheese with 180 g of cream cheese or processed cheese. Add 3-4 tablespoons of mayonnaise and mix until smooth and creamy. The filling should be thick and spreadable.
  3. Add herbs: Stir in 50 g of finely chopped green onions and a handful of chopped fresh dill. Mix well to combine, ensuring the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the cheese filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Eggs
  1. Boil the eggs: Place 3 large eggs in a pot of water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, transfer the eggs to a bowl of cold water to cool.
  2. Peel and chop the eggs: Once the eggs have cooled, peel them and chop them into small pieces. Set the chopped eggs aside for later.
Step 4: Assemble the Carrot Roll
  1. Spread the carrot mixture: On a large sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap, spread the sautéed carrots evenly into a rectangle shape. The carrot layer should be about 1 cm thick. Make sure to press the carrots down firmly so they hold together.
  2. Add the cheese filling: Spread the cheese filling evenly over the top of the carrot layer, leaving about 1-2 cm of space around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out when you roll it.
  3. Sprinkle the chopped eggs: Evenly distribute the chopped boiled eggs on top of the cheese filling. The eggs add texture and richness to the roll.
  4. Roll it up: Using the parchment paper or plastic wrap to help, carefully roll the carrot and cheese mixture into a log shape, starting from one end and rolling tightly. Make sure the filling stays intact as you roll.
  5. Chill the roll: Once rolled, wrap the carrot and cheese roll tightly in the parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the roll firm up and makes it easier to slice.
Step 5: Serve
  1. Slice and serve: After chilling, remove the roll from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Slice the roll into 1-2 cm thick pieces and arrange them on a serving platter.
  2. Garnish: Garnish the slices with extra fresh dill or green onions for added flavor and presentation.
  3. Serve cold: This carrot and cheese roll is best served cold as an appetizer or side dish. It pairs well with fresh salads, crusty bread, or as part of a charcuterie board.

Cooking Tips

  • Customize the filling: You can customize the filling by adding different types of cheese, herbs, or even some finely chopped cooked bacon for added flavor.
  • Make it ahead: This roll can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This makes it a convenient dish for parties or gatherings when you need to save time.
  • Vegetable variations: If you want to add more vegetables, consider including finely chopped bell peppers or sautéed spinach in the filling.
  • Slicing tip: Use a sharp knife to slice the roll neatly, wiping the blade between cuts to keep the slices clean and presentable.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fat: 21 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Vitamin A: 140% DV
  • Calcium: 15% DV
  • Iron: 6% DV

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I use different types of cheese in the filling?
    • Yes! You can experiment with other cheeses like ricotta, feta, or even blue cheese if you prefer stronger flavors. Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to maintain a creamy consistency.
  2. How long can the roll be stored in the fridge?
    • The carrot and cheese roll can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to consume it fresh to maintain its texture and flavor.
  3. Can I make this roll vegan?
    • Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cheese and vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based version. Use a vegan egg substitute for the filling or omit the eggs entirely.
  4. Can I freeze the roll?
    • Freezing the roll is not recommended as the texture of the cheese and mayonnaise may change after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a short period.
  5. What can I serve with this roll?
    • This roll is a versatile appetizer and pairs well with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or as part of a larger buffet with other small bites and dips.

Conclusion

This Carrot and Cheese Roll is a versatile, colorful, and flavorful dish that can be served as a delicious appetizer, snack, or side. The combination of sautéed carrots, rich cheeses, and fresh herbs creates a savory, satisfying flavor that’s sure to impress. With minimal preparation and a short chilling time, this roll is both convenient and elegant, perfect for parties, gatherings, or a simple family meal. Enjoy this dish cold, sliced, and garnished with herbs for a refreshing and satisfying experience.