Jellied meat in eggshell
Eggshell aspic: a traditional delicacy with a surprising twist
Aspic is a classic dish that reminds us of festive meals and moments spent with loved ones. Today, I propose an innovative version: eggshell aspic. This recipe not only impresses with its artistic appearance but also with its refined taste. We will explore each step of the process together, so you can achieve a result worthy of the most sophisticated tables.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10 servings
Ingredients:
- 10 eggs
- 2 pig trotters
- 1 chicken breast
- 1 carrot (for decoration)
- 1 bunch of parsley (for decoration)
- Soup vegetables (carrot, celery, parsnip)
- 2 packets of gelatin
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon of peppercorns
- 1 head of garlic
- Salt (to taste)
The history of aspic is long, being a dish found in numerous cultures. It was often prepared in traditional households, especially to preserve meat during the cold season. Eggshell aspic offers a unique and elegant appearance, adding a touch of originality to festive meals.
Step-by-step preparation:
1. Preparing the aspic base
In a 5-liter pot, add the cleaned and washed pig trotters along with the vegetables (carrot, celery, parsnip), peeled and cut into large rounds. Add the bay leaves, peppercorns, and a tablespoon of salt. Cover with water and let it simmer on low heat for 2 hours. It is essential to skim the soup occasionally to obtain a clear liquid.
2. Adding the chicken breast
Halfway through the cooking time, add the chicken breast to the pot. This will add a delicious flavor to the aspic. Make sure the breast is well cooked but do not overdo it, so it doesn't dry out.
3. Straining and seasoning
Once the ingredients are well cooked, strain the soup through a fine sieve. Then, add the crushed garlic and let it boil for another 1-2 minutes. Then, strain again, this time through cheesecloth, to obtain a clear liquid.
4. Dissolving the gelatin
In a small cup, dissolve the 2 packets of gelatin in cold water, according to the instructions on the package. Add the dissolved gelatin to the strained soup and mix well to homogenize. This step will help thicken the aspic, giving it the desired texture.
5. Preparing the eggshells
Carefully break the 10 eggs, preferably at the rounder end, and gently peel them, being careful not to damage them. Rinse the shells with cold water to clean any egg residue.
6. Filling the eggshells
In each eggshell, place a slice of carrot, a few parsley leaves, and small cubes of cooked meat from the soup. Then, carefully pour the aspic liquid, making sure not to overfill to avoid spilling.
7. Cooling and serving
Place the filled eggshells in an egg carton and refrigerate them to set, preferably overnight. The next day, carefully peel the eggs and arrange them on an elegant platter.
8. Decorating
The aspic can be served with a side of green salad or mustard sauce. Additionally, add a few sprigs of fresh parsley for a more vibrant appearance.
Practical tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
- If you want a more aromatic version, you can add a few slices of onion and garlic during boiling.
- Eggshell aspic can be an excellent choice for holiday meals or parties, being a dish that will surely impress guests.
Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use vegetarian gelatin?
Yes, you can use agar-agar or other types of plant-based gelatins, but check the usage instructions as they may require different preparation methods.
- What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with various vegetables, such as peas or bell peppers, to add color and flavor.
- How can I store the aspic?
The aspic can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days, but it is recommended to consume it as soon as possible for freshness.
Now that you have discovered the recipe for eggshell aspic, don't hesitate to try it and adapt it to your taste! Whether it's a special occasion or a family dinner, this dish will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 10 eggs, 2 pork trotters, 1 chicken breast, soup vegetables, 2 packets of gelatin, 2 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon of peppercorns, 1 head of garlic, salt
