Camembert Roulade
Introduction
The Camembert Roulade is a delectable dish that beautifully showcases the creamy, rich flavors of the iconic French cheese, Camembert. Originating from northern France, particularly the Normandy region, Camembert cheese has been a staple in French kitchens since the late 18th century. Its velvety texture and flavorful profile make it a perfect choice for a roulade, a dish that involves rolling ingredients together, often with a filling, to create a spiral appearance when sliced.
Ingredients
- Camembert - 250g wheel
- Butter - 2 tablespoons
- Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
- Spinach - 100g, fresh and washed
- Puff Pastry - 1 sheet, thawed if frozen
- Egg - 1, beaten
- Walnuts - 50g, chopped
- Cranberries - 50g, dried
- Salt - pinch, to taste
- Pepper - pinch, to taste
Preparation
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the puff pastry from sticking during the cooking process.
Next, melt the butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will impart a bitterness to the dish. Add the spinach to the pan, cooking until it wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Assembling the Roulade
Place the sheet of puff pastry on a clean flat surface. Spoon the cooked spinach and garlic mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
Position the wheel of Camembert cheese on top of the spinach mix. Next, sprinkle the walnuts and cranberries around the cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Rolling the Roulade
Gently roll the puff pastry around the filling, forming a log. Ensure that the seam is tightly pinched closed and tucked underneath the roll to prevent it from opening during baking.
Brush the roulade with the beaten egg, which will give it a lovely golden brown finish when baked.
Cooking Process
Transfer the prepared roulade onto the lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the puff pastry is crisp and golden brown. Keep an eye on the baking process by using a timer to ensure the Camembert inside is nicely melted and the pastry does not burn.
Serving Suggestions
Allow the Camembert Roulade to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm as an appetizer or a delightful centerpiece for a lunch gathering. Pair with a fresh green salad or a lightly dressed arugula salad for a gourmet touch.
Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this classic French-inspired dish, bringing a taste of Normandy to your dining table.