Paradise Roll

Paradise Roll: a creamy and savory delight

Total time: 4 hours (including cooling time)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Who wouldn't want to bring a touch of magic to their plate? The Paradise Roll is that recipe that combines textures and flavors in an elegant form, perfect for a festive lunch or a special dinner. This delicacy is a perfect combination of creamy bechamel sauce and rich filling that will impress any guest. Let's discover together how to prepare this wonderful roll!

Ingredients needed

For the bechamel sauce:
- 60 g butter
- 60 g flour
- 300 ml milk

For the filling:
- 200 g soft cheese (preferably cottage cheese or ricotta)
- 50 g thick sour cream
- 150 g mortadella (or any preferred cold cut)
- 50 g diced cheese
- a handful of green or black olives, chopped
- red bell pepper, diced
- fresh dill or parsley, to taste
- 4 eggs (separate the whites from the yolks)
- 50 g grated parmesan for decoration

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the bechamel sauce:
Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Make sure it doesn’t brown, just melt. Then, add the flour all at once, continuously stirring with a whisk to avoid lumps. It is important to cook the flour for a few minutes to eliminate the raw taste.

2. Adding the milk:
Begin to add the cold milk gradually, stirring constantly. This step is crucial as the cold milk prevents lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and starts to thicken. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes, then set it aside to cool.

3. Preparing the filling:
Use a mixer to combine the soft cheese with the sour cream, diced cheese, olives, diced bell pepper, and fresh herbs. Mix well until you obtain a smooth cream. Place this mixture in the fridge to cool and firm up slightly.

4. Incorporating the eggs:
Once the bechamel sauce has cooled, start adding the yolks one at a time, mixing well after each. This will enrich the texture of the sauce. Then, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form and gently fold them into the bechamel sauce with a spatula, using gentle up-and-down motions. This step will add air and volume to the roll.

5. Baking the roll:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with butter and parchment paper. Pour the batter into the tray and level it evenly. Sprinkle the grated parmesan on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the roll is golden and firm to the touch.

6. Rolling and cooling:
After removing the roll from the oven, spread it with the prepared cheese cream. Carefully roll it up using the parchment paper to assist you. Wrap the roll in aluminum foil and let it cool in the fridge for 2-3 hours. This step is essential as the roll will be easier to slice once cooled.

Serving suggestions

The Paradise Roll is served cold, sliced into thin pieces. You can accompany it with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce with dill and lemon for a refreshing contrast. Additionally, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top will add a touch of flavor.

Interesting variations

- For a vegetarian version, you can replace the cold cuts with roasted vegetables (such as zucchini and eggplant) or mushrooms.
- Add spices like nutmeg or white pepper to the bechamel sauce for an extra flavor boost.
- Try other types of cheese: feta or goat cheese can add a distinct note.

Nutritional benefits

The Paradise Roll is an excellent source of protein and calcium due to the cheese and eggs. It is a recipe that can be enjoyed in moderation, with an approximate caloric content of 350 kcal per serving, depending on the ingredients used. It is important to serve it alongside fresh vegetables to balance the caloric intake.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of milk for the sauce?
Yes, you can use almond milk or soy milk, but the texture of the sauce may vary.

2. How far in advance can I prepare the roll?
You can prepare it a day in advance, and the flavor will become even more intense.

3. How can I avoid lumps in the bechamel sauce?
Make sure to add the cold milk gradually and stir constantly to maintain a smooth texture.

The Paradise Roll is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that can transform any meal into a feast. Try it and enjoy the applause of your loved ones!

 Ingredients: 60 g butter, 60 g flour, 300 g milk, 4 eggs, 200 g soft cheese, 50 g Parmesan, a handful of olives, 150 g mortadella (any cold cut is good), 50 g diced cheese, dill, parsley or any herbs you want, small diced red pepper, 50 g thick sour cream.