Beef Roll (Cannelon De Bœuf)

Beef Roll, also known as “Cannelon de Bœuf,” is a delightful and flavorful dish that showcases the art of combining lean beef and fat bacon into a delectable roll. This recipe allows for versatile seasoning options, making it easy to customize the flavors according to personal preferences and ingredient availability. Whether you opt for a citrusy touch with lemon zest and juice, a herbaceous blend of parsley, onion, summer savory, and thyme, or a combination of both, the result is a savory and mouthwatering beef roll that is sure to please the palate.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 pounds of lean beef, finely chopped
• 1/2 pound of fat bacon, chopped and pounded
• Pepper and salt
• 1 small nutmeg, grated
• Rind of 1 lemon, grated
• Juice of 1/4 lemon
• 1 heaping tablespoon of finely minced parsley (or 1 tablespoon of minced onion)
• 1 tablespoon of summer savory and thyme (if not using onion or parsley)
• 2 eggs

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped lean beef with the chopped and pounded fat bacon.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Season the meat mixture with pepper, salt (in moderation), grated nutmeg, grated lemon rind, and lemon juice.
2. Add the minced parsley (or onion) or a combination of summer savory and thyme for additional seasoning.
3. Bind all the ingredients together using the eggs.
4. Form the mixture into a roll shape.

TIPS:

• Experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the seasoning to your taste preferences.
• If the meat is not raw but under-dressed, surround the roll with pie-crust before baking.

YIELD: The Beef Roll will yield a delicious and satisfying meal for approximately four to six servings.

In conclusion, Beef Roll, or Cannelon de Bœuf, is a delightful and versatile dish that allows you to explore a range of flavors and seasoning combinations. The key to this delectable roll lies in the finely chopped lean beef and the addition of fat bacon, which ensures a moist and flavorful result.

The seasoning options are diverse, offering you the freedom to create a unique and personalized taste profile. Whether you prefer the citrusy touch of lemon zest and juice or the aromatic blend of parsley, onion, summer savory, and thyme, each variation promises a satisfying and savory experience.

To bind all the ingredients together and create a cohesive roll, eggs are added to the mixture, ensuring that the flavors meld together during the baking process.

The baking of the Beef Roll is a crucial step in achieving a tender and succulent outcome. The roll is securely wrapped in buttered paper, providing a protective layer while retaining moisture and flavor. A crust made of flour and water covers the roll, sealing in the delicious juices during the two-hour baking process.

The result is a visually appealing and flavorful Beef Roll that is the perfect centerpiece for any dining occasion. When serving, you have the option to complement this dish with a choice of tomato-sauce or brown gravy, each enhancing the savory notes of the beef.

Furthermore, if the meat is under-dressed rather than raw, you can opt to surround the roll with a delightful pie-crust, creating an extra layer of indulgence and a buttery, flaky texture.

Beef Roll is a versatile dish that can be served as a standalone main course or paired with side dishes like potato croquettes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.

Whether you’re hosting a special dinner gathering or simply seeking to elevate your culinary skills, Beef Roll promises to impress and delight all who have the pleasure of savoring this flavorful creation.