Are you looking to impress your guests with a dish that tastes like it came straight out of a gourmet restaurant? This pork fillet roll, wrapped in bacon and stuffed with prunes and rosemary, is sure to delight everyone at your table. With a flavorful marinade and a perfect combination of sweet and savory, this dish is both elegant and delicious. Let’s get started on this mouthwatering recipe that will have your guests raving!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 pork fillet (about 800 grams)
- 150 grams dried bacon (about 0.3 lb)
- 3-4 pieces of prunes
- Sprig of rosemary
- 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard
- 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
- 3 teaspoons soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Oven
- Wooden skewers
Directions
Preparing the Pork Fillet
- Butterfly the Pork: Lay the pork fillet on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open the fillet like a book.
- Flatten the Pork: Use a meat mallet to gently pound the pork fillet to an even thickness.
Adding the Filling
- Season the Pork: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the flattened pork fillet.
- Add Prunes and Rosemary: Place the prunes and a sprig of rosemary along the center of the pork fillet.
- Roll the Pork: Carefully roll the pork fillet around the prunes and rosemary to create a tight roll.
Wrapping in Bacon and Securing
- Wrap in Bacon: Lay the slices of dried bacon on a flat surface, slightly overlapping. Place the rolled pork fillet on top and wrap the bacon around the pork, securing the ends with wooden skewers.
Preparing the Marinade
- Make the Marinade: In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of whole grain mustard, 1 tablespoon of sweet chili sauce, and 3 teaspoons of soy sauce. Mix well.
- Marinate the Pork: Brush the marinade over the entire surface of the bacon-wrapped pork roll.
Cooking the Pork Roll
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake the Pork Roll: Place the bacon-wrapped pork roll in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F) and the bacon is crispy.
Serving
- Rest the Pork: Allow the pork roll to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the pork roll into rounds and serve immediately.
Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations
- Shortcut: Ask your butcher to butterfly the pork fillet for you.
- Variation: Use dried apricots or figs instead of prunes for a different flavor.
- Extra Flavor: Add garlic cloves or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the marinade for added depth.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pork roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Food and Drink Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or mashed potatoes. For beverages, try serving it with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a chilled beer.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Yes, you can substitute the pork fillet with chicken breast or beef tenderloin, adjusting cooking times as needed.
Q: How do I prevent the bacon from falling off during cooking? A: Secure the bacon tightly with wooden skewers or kitchen twine to ensure it stays in place while cooking.
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the pork roll up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.
Conclusion
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful meat dishes. It’s ideal for dinner parties, special occasions, or a weekend family meal. The combination of tender pork, crispy bacon, and the sweet surprise of prunes makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, the addition of rosemary and a tangy marinade elevates the flavors to a whole new level. It’s easy to prepare but looks and tastes like it took hours of effort.