Taiwanese-style Cordon Bleu

Ingredients

While the Swiss Cordon Bleu traditionally uses veal or chicken, this Taiwanese adaptation replaces it with a crispy pork cutlet. Additionally, Taiwanese cuisine incorporates local ingredients and flavors, such as using Taiwanese cheese and ham. The cooking method also differs, as the Taiwanese version is typically deep-fried for an extra crispy texture. We alse have the original recipe for Cordon Bleu, so you can check it out.

• 4 pork loin chops (about 200g each) (4 pork loin chops (about 7 oz each)) 4 pork loin chops (about 200g each) (4 pork loin chops (about 7 oz each))
• 4 slices of Taiwanese cheese (4 slices of Taiwanese cheese) 4 slices of Taiwanese cheese (4 slices of Taiwanese cheese)
• 4 slices of Taiwanese ham (4 slices of Taiwanese ham) 4 slices of Taiwanese ham (4 slices of Taiwanese ham)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g) (1 cup all-purpose flour (4.2 oz)) 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g) (1 cup all-purpose flour (4.2 oz))
• 2 large eggs, beaten (2 large eggs, beaten) 2 large eggs, beaten (2 large eggs, beaten)
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (200g) (2 cups breadcrumbs (7 oz)) 2 cups breadcrumbs (200g) (2 cups breadcrumbs (7 oz))
• Vegetable oil, for frying (Vegetable oil, for frying) Vegetable oil, for frying (Vegetable oil, for frying)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (Salt and pepper, to taste) Salt and pepper, to taste (Salt and pepper, to taste)

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 20g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 30g (Sugars: 2g)
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Place each pork loin chop between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness.
3. 3.
   Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. 4.
   Lay a slice of cheese and a slice of ham on top of each pork chop.
5. 5.
   Roll up the pork chops tightly, securing them with toothpicks.
6. 6.
   Dredge each rolled pork chop in flour, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then coat it with breadcrumbs.
7. 7.
   Carefully place the breaded pork chops into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes per side.
8. 8.
   Remove the pork chops from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
9. 9.
   Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes before removing the toothpicks.
10. 10.
    Serve the Taiwanese-style Cordon Bleu hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork loin chops — Pound the pork chops evenly to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
• Taiwanese cheese — Use a meltable cheese with a mild flavor, such as Taiwanese mozzarella or cheddar.
• Taiwanese ham — Look for thinly sliced Taiwanese ham, which is slightly sweet and adds a unique taste to the dish.
• Breadcrumbs — For extra crunch, you can mix breadcrumbs with crushed Taiwanese rice crackers.

Tips & Tricks

• To ensure a crispy crust, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the pork chops.
• Remove excess flour and breadcrumbs by gently shaking the pork chops before frying.
• If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the breaded pork chops in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes.
• Serve the Taiwanese-style Cordon Bleu with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy kick.
• Pair this dish with a side of steamed rice and a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete Taiwanese meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Taiwanese-style Cordon Bleu hot, alongside steamed rice and a side of cucumber salad. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or Thai basil, for added freshness and aroma.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced Taiwanese-style Cordon Bleu on a plate, leaning them against each other to showcase the filling. Drizzle a savory sauce, such as soy sauce or sweet chili sauce, over the top for an attractive presentation.