Zagrebački Odrezak with a Twist

Ingredients

• 4 pork cutlets (150g each) (4 pork cutlets (5.3 oz each)) 4 pork cutlets (150g each) (4 pork cutlets (5.3 oz each))
• 4 slices of smoked ham (4 slices of smoked ham) 4 slices of smoked ham (4 slices of smoked ham)
• 4 slices of aged cheddar cheese (4 slices of aged cheddar cheese) 4 slices of aged cheddar cheese (4 slices of aged cheddar cheese)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (120g) (1 cup breadcrumbs (4.2 oz)) 1 cup breadcrumbs (120g) (1 cup breadcrumbs (4.2 oz))
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (16g) (2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (0.6 oz)) 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (16g) (2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (0.6 oz))
• 2 eggs, beaten (2 eggs, beaten) 2 eggs, beaten (2 eggs, beaten)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (1 teaspoon paprika) 1 teaspoon paprika (1 teaspoon paprika)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (1 teaspoon dried oregano) 1 teaspoon dried oregano (1 teaspoon dried oregano)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (1 teaspoon garlic powder) 1 teaspoon garlic powder (1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• Salt and pepper to taste (Salt and pepper to taste) Salt and pepper to taste (Salt and pepper to taste)
• Vegetable oil for frying (Vegetable oil for frying) Vegetable oil for frying (Vegetable oil for frying)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Lay each pork cutlet flat on a cutting board and season with salt, pepper, paprika, dried oregano, and garlic powder.
3. 3.
   Place a slice of smoked ham and a slice of aged cheddar cheese on each cutlet.
4. 4.
   Roll up the cutlets tightly, securing them with toothpicks if needed.
5. 5.
   In separate bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
6. 6.
   Dip each stuffed cutlet into the flour, then the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
7. 7.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
8. 8.
   Fry the cutlets until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
9. 9.
   Transfer the cutlets to a baking sheet and finish cooking in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F).
10. 10.
    Remove the toothpicks before serving.
11. 11.
    Serve hot with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork cutlets — Pound the pork cutlets gently to ensure they are evenly thin for easier rolling and cooking.
• Smoked ham — Opt for a high-quality smoked ham to enhance the smoky flavor of the dish.
• Aged cheddar cheese — Use a sharp aged cheddar cheese for a stronger and more pronounced flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a healthier alternative, you can bake the stuffed cutlets instead of frying them. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gouda or mozzarella, to personalize the flavor of the dish.
• Serve the Zagrebački Odrezak with a side of tangy sauerkraut for a traditional Croatian twist.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb coating.
• To ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well to the cutlets, refrigerate them for 30 minutes before frying.

Serving advice

Serve the Zagrebački Odrezak hot, alongside creamy mashed potatoes and a fresh cucumber and tomato salad. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed cutlets on a platter, showcasing their golden brown crust and the melted cheese oozing out. Place a small bowl of tangy mustard or ketchup on the side for dipping.