Montenegrin-style Stuffed Meat Rolls

Ingredients

While Chapanas from Bolivian cuisine are typically made with ground beef and served with a spicy sauce, Montenegrin-style Stuffed Meat Rolls use thinly sliced beef or pork and are cooked in a savory broth. The filling in Montenegrin cuisine often includes a combination of vegetables, herbs, and spices, giving the dish a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, Montenegrin Stuffed Meat Rolls are traditionally served with mashed potatoes or bread, providing a comforting and satisfying meal. We alse have the original recipe for Chapanas, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) thinly sliced beef or pork 500g (1.1 lb) thinly sliced beef or pork
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, grated 1 carrot, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 500ml (2 cups) beef or vegetable broth 500ml (2 cups) beef or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the chopped onion, grated carrot, red bell pepper, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the filling.
2. 2.
   Lay out the thinly sliced beef or pork and place a spoonful of the filling on each slice. Roll up the meat tightly, securing it with toothpicks if needed.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the stuffed meat rolls and cook until browned on all sides.
4. 4.
   Pour the beef or vegetable broth into the skillet, covering the meat rolls. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. 5.
   Remove the toothpicks if used and serve the Stuffed Meat Rolls hot, accompanied by mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef or pork — Choose lean cuts of meat for a healthier option. If using beef, opt for cuts like sirloin or tenderloin. For pork, choose loin or tenderloin cuts.
• Red bell pepper — Roasting the red bell pepper before adding it to the filling will enhance its flavor and add a smoky element to the dish.
• Vegetable broth — If you prefer a richer flavor, use homemade vegetable broth or a high-quality store-bought version.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the meat rolls more tender, marinate the thinly sliced beef or pork in the refrigerator for a few hours before stuffing and cooking.
• Experiment with different fillings by adding ingredients like grated cheese, cooked rice, or sautéed mushrooms to the vegetable mixture.
• For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

Serving advice

Serve the Montenegrin-style Stuffed Meat Rolls hot, allowing the flavors to shine. Accompany them with a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Stuffed Meat Rolls on a platter, showcasing their golden-brown exterior. Pour some of the savory broth over the rolls for an appetizing presentation. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.