The Story Behind This Delightful Dish
Picture a gathering where the aroma of freshly baked pastries fills the air, promising a culinary experience that’s both comforting and exciting. These mini meat rolls are more than just a recipe – they’re a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a crowd-pleasing delicacy that brings families together.
Ingredients (US and Metric Measurements)
For the Meat Filling:
- 200g (7 oz) ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 100g (3.5 oz) mushrooms, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 50g (3.5 tablespoons) butter
For the Pastry and Topping:
- 450g (1 lb) puff pastry
- 150g (5.3 oz) cheese, grated
- 300g (10.5 oz) tomatoes, sliced
- Flour for dusting
- Dried oregano
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Dried oregano
Garnish:
- Fresh green onions, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- Mix ground beef with egg, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and dried garlic
- Add tomato sauce and mix well
- Chop herbs (dill and parsley) and add to the meat
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a pan
- Sauté red pepper for 2 minutes
- Add onions, cook for 2-3 minutes
- Add grated carrots, cook for 2-3 minutes
- Add chopped mushrooms, cook for 2-3 minutes
- Remove vegetables and set aside
- Cook the Meat:
- In the same pan, stir-fry the meat for 2-3 minutes
- Combine meat with sautéed vegetables
- Prepare the Pastry:
- Roll out puff pastry
- Trim edges
- Spread meat mixture evenly
- Sprinkle grated cheese
- Roll into a large log
- Cut into 2 cm thick slices
- Assemble and Bake:
- Place slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet
- Top with tomato rings
- Sprinkle with cheese and dried oregano
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Mix tomato sauce, mayonnaise, grated garlic, black pepper, and oregano
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped green onions
- Serve with the prepared sauce
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
- Servings: 4-6
Nutritional Highlights
- Ground beef provides protein for muscle health
- Red peppers support cardiovascular health
- Mushrooms help regulate cholesterol
- Carrots are rich in fiber
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use cold butter for flakier pastry
- Don’t overmix the meat to keep it tender
- Let the rolls rest for 5 minutes after baking
- Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices
Variations and Substitutions
- Use ground turkey for a leaner option
- Replace beef with plant-based meat substitute
- Use gluten-free puff pastry
- Add different herbs like thyme or basil
- Substitute vegetables based on preference
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I prepare these in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate before baking.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze these mini rolls? A: Freeze unbaked rolls for up to 1 month.
Q: Are these suitable for vegetarians? A: The current recipe is meat-based, but can be adapted.
Q: What can I serve with these rolls? A: A fresh salad or light soup complements them well.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days
- Reheat in oven at 160°C (320°F) for best results
- Can be frozen before baking
Enjoy these delightful mini meat rolls – a perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and family love!
