This Pork Fillet Roll recipe combines savory bacon, sweet prunes, and fragrant rosemary, creating an elegant dish with rich flavors. Ideal for a special occasion or festive gathering, these rolls are both impressive and simple to prepare.
Preparation Time:
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- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Active Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- Pork Fillet: 1 (about 800g)
- Bacon: 150g (0.3 lb), sliced
- Prunes: 3-4 pieces, chopped
- Rosemary: 1 sprig, chopped
- Whole Grain Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Sweet Chili Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Soy Sauce: 3 teaspoons
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Wooden Skewers
Directions
- Prepare the Pork Fillet:
- Trim the silver skin from the fillet and remove any excess fat or uneven parts.
- Cut the pork fillet in half lengthwise, then cut each half in half again to ensure even-sized pieces.
- Flatten the Pork:
- Place each piece of pork between cling film layers and use a kitchen hammer to flatten them into thin layers.
- Season the Pork:
- Season both sides of the flattened pork pieces with salt and pepper. Add any favorite spices for extra flavor.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Lay bacon slices over each piece of pork.
- Sprinkle chopped rosemary on top of the bacon.
- Add chopped prunes over the bacon.
- Roll the Meat:
- Roll up each piece of pork tightly with the bacon and prunes inside.
- Use wooden skewers to secure the rolls, piercing each roll with two skewers for stability.
- Fry the Rolls:
- Heat a pan with a bit of oil over high heat. Sear the rolls for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Place the seared rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix the mustard, soy sauce, and sweet chili sauce. Brush this mixture over the rolls.
- Bake for 10 minutes in the preheated oven.
Recipe Details
- Pork Fillet:
- Preparation: Slice the pork fillet into thin, wide pieces that can be rolled around the filling. Pound lightly with a meat mallet to ensure an even thickness for easier rolling.
- Seasoning: Sprinkle the pork with salt, pepper, and perhaps a touch of garlic powder or fresh thyme for added depth.
- Filling:
- Prunes: Use whole, pitted prunes as they add a natural sweetness that complements the pork.
- Cheese Option: A touch of soft cheese like goat cheese or cream cheese can be added alongside the prunes for creaminess if desired.
- Wrapping and Rolling:
- Bacon: Wrap each pork roll in a slice of bacon. The bacon adds flavor, moisture, and keeps the rolls secure while cooking.
- Securing: Use toothpicks to hold each roll together, ensuring they stay intact during cooking.
- Cooking Method:
- Searing: Begin by searing the rolls in a hot pan with a bit of olive oil until the bacon is crispy and golden on all sides.
- Baking: Transfer to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes to finish cooking through.
- Sauce Option:
- A simple sauce of balsamic reduction or a splash of brandy or wine in the pan drippings makes a lovely glaze to pour over the rolls before serving.
Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a final touch.
Additional Preparation and Tips
- Preparing the Pork Fillet:
- Cutting: Slice the pork fillet into ½-inch thick pieces, about 3–4 inches wide. Pounding them lightly ensures even thickness, which helps the rolls cook uniformly.
- Seasoning: Beyond salt and pepper, you can add a sprinkle of smoked paprika, sage, or rosemary for added flavor.
- Marinating Option: Marinate the pork slices in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and a touch of balsamic vinegar for 15–20 minutes before assembling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Filling Options:
- Prunes: If you prefer a different dried fruit, apricots or figs also pair well with pork and bacon.
- Cheese Variation: Goat cheese or blue cheese brings a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the prunes. If you use cheese, spread a small amount on the pork slices before adding the prunes.
- Nut Option: A few chopped walnuts or almonds add crunch and a bit of richness to the filling.
- Rolling and Wrapping:
- Bacon Selection: Use thin slices of bacon so it crisps up easily during cooking without overwhelming the pork.
- Securing the Rolls: Use two toothpicks per roll if needed, securing them at either end. This helps keep the bacon tightly wrapped and the filling in place.
Cooking Method
- Searing the Rolls:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the rolls seam side down first to seal them, then turn to sear each side for a crispy bacon exterior.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of brandy, white wine, or a bit of stock before transferring to the oven to create a base for a sauce.
- Baking:
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the rolls, until the pork is just cooked through and juicy.
- Making a Sauce:
- Balsamic Reduction: Simmer balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey until it reduces and thickens into a syrupy glaze.
- Pan Sauce: After removing the rolls, add brandy or white wine to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let it reduce by half, then add a pat of butter to thicken the sauce slightly before drizzling over the rolls.
- Pork Fillet:
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh rosemary.
- Pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh side salad.
Cooking Tips
- Well-Heated Pan: Ensure the pan is thoroughly heated before frying to achieve a good sear.
- Alternative to Skewers: Use kitchen twine instead of skewers if preferred.
- Herbs and Dried Fruits: Feel free to try other herbs or dried fruits for variation.
Nutritional Benefits
- Protein-Rich: Pork provides a high-quality source of protein.
- Health Benefits of Rosemary: Rosemary and prunes add antioxidants and fiber to the dish.
- Balanced Flavor: The sweet chili sauce brings a balanced sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
Dietary Information
- Contains Pork and Bacon
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce if necessary.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Yet Elegant: Combines easy steps with a gourmet presentation.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: Savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors meld perfectly.
- Impressive Yet Easy: Great for home cooks looking to elevate their meals without a complex process.
Conclusion
This Pork Fillet Roll recipe with bacon and prunes delivers a delightful combination of flavors that’s both visually appealing and delicious. Perfect for a special dinner or festive occasion, it’s sure to impress family and guests alike. Enjoy this unique dish that brings together rich textures and aromas for an unforgettable dining experience!