Ingredients:

For the Cutlets:

• Minced Meat (any type): 800 g
• Onion: 1 medium-sized, finely chopped
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Seasoning: 1 tsp Hops-Suneli (or any preferred seasoning blend)

For the “Fur Coat”:

• Tomatoes: 2 medium, sliced
• Boiled Chicken Eggs: 3, hard-boiled and chopped
• Cheese: 130 g, grated (use a mild or sharp cheese of your choice)
• Dill: 1 sprig, finely chopped
• Garlic: 1 clove, minced
• Sour Cream: 2 tablespoons

Baking Instructions:

• Oven Temperature: Preheat to 180°C (350°F)
• Baking Time: 30-35 minutes at 180°C in top-bottom heating mode
• Final Step: Increase temperature to 200°C (392°F) for 5 minutes on convection mode to get a crispy finish

These ingredients create a perfectly balanced dish, combining savory minced meat cutlets with a refreshing, creamy, and cheesy topping. The Hops-Suneli seasoning gives the cutlets a subtle depth of flavor, while the tomatoes and boiled eggs in the “fur coat” provide both freshness and richness. The cheese and sour cream complete the topping, giving it a creamy, cheesy texture that melts into the cutlets as it bakes.

Steps to Prepare Meat Cutlets with “Fur Coat”:

1. Prepare the Cutlet Mixture:

Start by finely chopping the onion. In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat with the chopped onion, salt, pepper, and Hops-Suneli seasoning (or any seasoning blend you prefer). Mix the ingredients well until the mixture is smooth and uniform. If you like a smoother texture, you can briefly pulse the mixture in a food processor, but this is optional.

2. Shape the Cutlets:

Form the mixture into individual cutlets. Depending on your preference, you can make them small or large. Aim for a size that will bake evenly and provide a good balance of crispy edges and juicy interior. You should aim for about 10-12 cutlets, depending on the size of the patties.

3. Fry the Cutlets:

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cutlets to the pan, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. You don’t need to cook them fully through at this point, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Remove the cutlets from the pan and set them aside on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.

4. Prepare the “Fur Coat” Topping:

While the cutlets are cooling, prepare the “fur coat.” Start by slicing the tomatoes into thin rounds and chopping the boiled eggs into small pieces. Grate the cheese of your choice and chop the dill and garlic finely.

In a bowl, mix the chopped eggs, cheese, dill, and minced garlic. Add the sour cream and stir to combine, creating a creamy, flavorful topping for your cutlets.

5. Assemble the Dish:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with a small amount of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Lay the fried cutlets in the dish, spacing them evenly. Next, place the tomato slices on top of each cutlet, then spread the egg, cheese, and sour cream mixture generously over the top, making sure it covers the entire surface of the cutlets.

6. Bake the Cutlets:

Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes at 180°C. The cheese should melt and become bubbly, and the topping should start to turn golden brown. For an extra crispy finish, increase the oven temperature to 200°C (392°F) for an additional 5 minutes, switching to convection mode if your oven has that option. This final step ensures a crispy, golden crust on top.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the cutlets are perfectly baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve the meat cutlets with a side of fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or any vegetable of your choice. The creamy, cheesy “fur coat” will contrast beautifully with the crispy cutlets, making each bite a delicious experience.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes (including frying and baking)
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

KCAL (Approximate per Serving):

• Calories per Serving: 350-400 kcal (depending on the size of cutlets and ingredients used)

Servings:

• This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings, depending on the portion size.

Why This Recipe is Timeless:

The Meat Cutlets with “Fur Coat” Topping is a classic example of how simple, humble ingredients can be transformed into a dish that’s not only comforting but also visually stunning. This dish blends the savory richness of meat with the creamy indulgence of cheese and sour cream, making it universally appealing. The use of readily available ingredients like minced meat, tomatoes, and cheese ensures that it’s an affordable meal that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age or dietary preference.

It’s also a dish that can easily be customized. If you want a more flavorful twist, you can experiment with different types of cheese, herbs, or spices. The cutlets can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making this a great option for meal prep or making a big batch for a family meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, feeding your family, or meal prepping for the week, this dish will satisfy every time.

Tips for Making Perfect Meat Cutlets with “Fur Coat”:

• Meat Choice: Feel free to use different types of minced meat such as beef, pork, or lamb. Each will bring a different flavor to the cutlets.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Mozzarella, or even feta cheese for a more tangy flavor.
• Vegetable Additions: Add grated zucchini or finely chopped mushrooms to the meat mixture for added moisture and flavor.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the cutlets and “fur coat” topping the day before and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Storage Tips:

• Leftovers: Leftover cutlets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked cutlets with the “fur coat” topping. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion:

Minced Meat Cutlets with a “Fur Coat” is a dish that combines the comfort of a simple minced meat patty with the sophistication of a creamy, cheesy topping. It is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or special occasions, thanks to its delicious flavors and inviting presentation. The combination of tender, juicy cutlets with the creamy and tangy “fur coat” ensures that each bite is an experience of indulgence and satisfaction.

What makes this recipe stand the test of time is its versatility and the ability to adapt to different tastes while remaining rooted in the rich flavors of home-cooked meals. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this dish offers a sense of nostalgia and a reminder of the warmth of home-cooked comfort food. The timeless nature of this dish lies in its ability to bring people together, offering both culinary delight and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.