Category Archives: Europe

2
Oct, 2024
Czech Svíčková na Smetaně

Czech Svíčková na Smetaně

Czech Svíčková na Smetaně

Czech Svíčková na Smetaně - Short Chicken Version

SpiceBreeze
This beloved Czech dish, has a name that sparks curiosity. While *svíčka* means "candle" in Czech, one theory links it to medieval feasts held by candlelight. This classic dish features tenderloin, cooked with vegetables, seasoned with juniper and allspice. The vegetables are blended with gravy and cream into a velvety sauce. Served with cream, dumplings, and cranberry sauce, Svíčková perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors, earning its place as a true Czech fall favorite.
This recipe works well with beef, pork, chicken, or a plant-based tenderloin.
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hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Czech
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken pieces of your choice [1]

Fresh Produce

  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 small carrots [2]
  • 2 medium parsnips [2]
  • 3 celery stalks [2]
  • 1 lemon for juice

Dairy and Packaged Goods/Staples

  • 1/2-1 cup sour cream [3]
  • 1-2 cup whipped cream optional
  • butter or oil
  • salt & pepper

Culinary Spice Kit

  • 1 pouch Onion, allspice, juniper, black peppercorn, marjoram, thyme, bay leaves, celery 

Suggested Sides

  • cranberry sauce [4] or dried cranberries
  • bread or potato dumplings, or gnocchi
  • potatoes, boiled or mashed

Instructions
 

Prepare

  • Roughly chop the vegetables.

Cooking the Vegetables and Chicken

  • In a POT, cook onions in 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat until translucent.
  • Add vegetables and cook for 5 minutes while stirring frequently.
  • Add 5 cups water, the chicken, Svíčková spices, and salt to taste. Bring to a boil.
  • Cook over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked and the vegetables are tender.
  • Take the chicken out and keep it warm.

Cook the Gravy

  • Use a hand blender to purée the vegetables into a smooth sauce.
  • Stir in ½ cup of sour cream (or more to taste).
  • To thicken the gravy, add a flour slurry [5] if desired.
  • Cook over low heat for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

  • Serve the creamy gravy over the chicken, topped with whipped cream, cranberry sauce, and your favorite side dish.
  • Finish with a sprinkle of lemon juice to taste.

Notes

[1] Find the authentic recipe with beef here.
[2] Alternative Vegetables:
  • for carrots: Jerusalem artichoke, pumpkin, sweet potato
  • for parsnip: turnip, rutabaga, kohlrabi
  • for celery stalks: celery root
[3] Substitute with heavy cream if you prefer it sweeter.
[4] Find the recipe on our blog.
[5] Find the instructions on our blog.
Czech Svíčková na Smetaně

Czech Svíčková na Smetaně - Authentic Beef Version

SpiceBreeze
This beloved Czech dish, has a name that sparks curiosity. While *svíčka* means "candle" in Czech, one theory links it to medieval feasts held by candlelight. This classic dish features tenderloin, cooked with vegetables, seasoned with juniper and allspice. The vegetables are blended with gravy and cream into a velvety sauce. Served with cream, dumplings, and cranberry sauce, Svíčková perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors, earning its place as a true Czech fall favorite.
This recipe works well with beef, pork, chicken, or a plant-based tenderloin.
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hands-on time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Czech
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 1 lb beef tenderloin or sirloin [1]
  • 2 oz bacon cut into 1 inch slices

Fresh Produce

  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 small carrots [2]
  • 2 medium parsnips [2]
  • 3 celery stalks [2]
  • 1 lemon for juice

Dairy & Packaged Goods/Staples

  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1-2 cup whipped cream optional
  • salt & pepper

Culinary Spice Kit

  • 1 pouch Onion, allspice, juniper, black peppercorn, marjoram, thyme, bay leaves, celery 

Suggested Sides

  • cranberry sauce [3] or dried cranberries
  • bread or potato dumplings, or gnocchi
  • potatoes, boiled or mashed

Instructions
 

Prepare

  • Chop the vegetables into bite-size chunks.
  • Make 3 to 5 deep slits in the meat, being careful not to cut all the way through. Tuck bacon slices into each slit.

Cooking the Vegetables and Meat

  • In a POT, heat the remaining bacon until it releases some fat.
  • Add the meat and sear over high heat on all sides until browned. Remove the meat and set aside.
  • Melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
  • Add onions and cook until translucent.
  • Add the vegetables and 1 tbsp vinegar. Mix well.
  • Cook for 10 minutes or until the vegetables turn slightly golden, stirring frequently.
  • Return the meat to the pot. Add 5 cups water, Svíčková spices, and salt to taste. Cover. Bring to a boil.
  • Cook over medium-low heat for 90 minutes, or until the meat and vegetables are tender.
  • Take the meat out and keep it warm.

Prepare the Gravy

  • In a small POT, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add 2 tbsp flour and stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown.
  • Slowly add 1 cup of milk while whisking continuously.
  • When all is well incorporated, add mixture to the big pot with the vegetables.
  • Use a hand blender to purée the vegetables into a smooth sauce.
  • Cover and continue to cook over low heat for 15 minutes.
  • Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream (or more to taste). Mix well.

Serve

  • Serve the creamy gravy over the meat, topped with whipped cream, cranberry sauce, and your favorite side dish.
  • Finish with a sprinkle of lemon juice to taste.

Notes

[1] Alternative: pork tenderloin
For the quick version with chicken, see our recipe here.
[2] Alternative Vegetables:
  • for carrots: Jerusalem artichoke, pumpkin, sweet potato
  • for parsnip: turnip, rutabaga, kohlrabi
  • for celery stalks: celery root
[3] Find the recipe on our blog.
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Marceline Reid-Jaques
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Karen Jones
Karen Jones
2022-12-05
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ann davis
ann davis
2022-11-29
My daughter gave me a subscription as a Christmas present while our families were quarantining together. It was so much fun! It introduced us to several cuisines that were totally new to us. The recipes were easy to follow and the spices were transformative - fresh and pungent and delicious.
Jessica Brown
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2022-05-22
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22
Aug, 2024
Greek Moussaka

Greek Moussaka

Europe

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Exploring the Rich History and Unique Appeal of Greek Moussaka

When it comes to iconic Mediterranean dishes, few can rival the rich, comforting layers of moussaka. This beloved Greek dish, with its harmonious blend of flavors and textures, is more than just a hearty meal; it’s a culinary journey through history, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped the cuisine of the region. Let’s dive into the fascinating story behind moussaka and discover what makes it so special.

A Journey Through Time: The Origins of Moussaka

Moussaka’s history is as layered as the dish itself. Its origins can be traced back to the Arab world, where the word “moussaka” is derived from the Arabic “musaqqa‘a,” meaning “chilled.” Early versions of moussaka were indeed served cold, a far cry from the warm, comforting casserole we know today.

The dish’s journey from the Middle East to Greece brought about significant changes. In the Arab world, moussaka-like dishes commonly featured eggplant and lamb, but without the béchamel sauce that defines the modern Greek version. As it made its way across borders, moussaka absorbed different culinary traditions, eventually arriving in Greece, where it was transformed into a dish that would become a national favorite.

Learn from a Michelin Chef the Art of Béchamel

Béchamel

The modern version of Greek moussaka owes much to the innovative Greek chef Nikólaos Tselementés. In the 1920s, Tselementes introduced a touch of French cuisine to the dish by adding béchamel sauce, a creamy white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, to the top layer, giving moussaka its characteristic richness and smooth texture. This fusion of French and Middle Eastern influences marked a significant evolution in the dish’s history and helped cement its place in Greek culinary tradition.

But Tselementes’ impact on Greek cuisine extends far beyond moussaka. In 1910, he launched a cooking magazine that offered practical tips and introduced Greek households to international cuisines, forever changing the culinary landscape. His influence was so profound that “Tselementes” became synonymous with the word “cookbook” and is still used today as a playful compliment for anyone who excels in the kitchen. This enduring bit of culinary humor underscores the lasting legacy of a chef whose innovations have shaped Greek cooking for nearly a century.

What Makes Moussaka So Special?

Moussaka is a dish that stands out not only for its historical significance but also for its unique structure and flavor profile. It’s often compared to lasagna due to its layered composition, but moussaka has its own distinct character that sets it apart.

Layers of Flavor

At its core, moussaka is all about layers. The dish typically features sautéed eggplant as the base, followed by a savory mixture of ground meat—usually lamb or beef. Some versions also include other vegetables like potatoes or zucchini, adding even more depth to the dish. 

The crowning glory is the béchamel sauce, which bakes into a golden, creamy topping that contrasts beautifully with the savory layers beneath.

béchamel

A Fusion of Cultures

Moussaka is a culinary reflection of Greece’s rich history as a crossroads between East and West. The addition of béchamel sauce, a French creation, to a dish with Middle Eastern roots highlights this blend of cultural influences. It’s a dish that tells the story of Greece’s ability to adapt and incorporate different culinary traditions while creating something uniquely its own.

potato

Regional Variations

Moussaka’s versatility is another aspect of its appeal. While the Greek version is perhaps the most well-known, variations of moussaka can be found throughout the Balkans and the Middle East. In Turkey, for instance, moussaka is often prepared without béchamel and served as a stew rather than a layered casserole. In the Balkans, potatoes might replace eggplant as the primary ingredient, demonstrating the dish’s adaptability to local tastes and ingredients. Additionally, some versions, particularly in the Middle East, incorporate tomato sauce into the layers, adding a tangy richness that complements the savory meat and vegetables.

 

Seasonality

Traditionally, moussaka is enjoyed during the summer months when eggplants and tomatoes are at their peak. The dish celebrates the freshness of Mediterranean produce, making it a favorite for warm-weather dining.

tomato

Global Variations from our Blog

Italian Lasagne in Padella
Italian Lasagne in Padella
South African Bobotie
South African Bobotie Recipe

A Timeless Classic

Moussaka is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary tradition that has stood the test of time. Its rich layers and bold flavors have made it a beloved comfort food in Greece and beyond. Whether you’re enjoying it in a traditional Greek taverna or making it at home, moussaka offers a taste of history and a reminder of the ways in which food can bring together different cultures and flavors into a single, delicious experience.

 

So the next time you savor a bite of moussaka, take a moment to appreciate the rich tapestry of history and tradition that makes this dish truly special. It’s a culinary journey worth taking, one flavorful layer at a time.

Moussaka Variations from our Blog

Greek Moussaka
Greek Moussaka Recipe
Moussaka a la Kleftiko
Greek Moussaka a la Kleftiko Recipe
Greek Moussaka

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2
Jun, 2024
Norwegian Lakserull with Beetroot

Norwegian Lakserull with Beetroot

Norwegian Lakserull with Beetroot

Norwegian Lakserull with Beetroot

SpiceBreeze
Lakserull is a Norwegian dish consisting of rolled-up smoked salmon and dill paste in a thin potato flatbread. We've created two delicious variations of this traditional recipe. The first version is a quick and easy option, using any thin flatbread you have on hand. The second version is a bit more time-intensive but transforms the dish into a hearty dinner by substituting the flatbread with potato fritters. Our signature spice blend enhances the dill flavor with fennel and adds a burst of color and taste with beetroot powder.
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hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Norwegian
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

  • 9 oz smoked salmon [1]
  • 1.5 lb gold potatoes [2] peeled & grated
  • 3 green onions, finely sliced [3]
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt [4]

Alternative Side

  • any thin flatbread, for instance, tortilla

Culinary Spice Kit

  • 1 pouch Beetroot powder, dill weed, fennel

Instructions
 

Prepare Beetroot Yogurt

  • Mix the yogurt with the spices.

Option 1 - Potato Fritters

  • In a large BOWL, combine the grated potatoes with eggs, flour, and salt to taste. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  • In a PAN, heat 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
  • Pour a ladleful of the potato mixture into the pan and flatten it into a fritter about the size of your hand. Depending on the size of your pan, you should be able to fit two or three fritters at a time.
  • Fry the fritters until they are golden brown on both sides, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
  • Remove the fritters from the pan and drain on paper towels if necessary.
  • Serve them topped with the salmon, sprinkled with green onions, and the spiced yogurt.

Alternative Quick Option 2 - Flatbread Rolls

  • Spread a thin, even layer of yogurt on the flatbread.
  • Add the salmon and sprinkle the onions on top.
  • Roll the flatbread tightly and cut it into 3 to 4 cm pieces.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

[1] Variation: Substitute salmon with poultry cold cut.
[2] Optionally, substitute part of it with root veggies or zucchini.
[3] Substitute with 1 oz arugula or finely chopped red onions.
[4] Substitute with cream cheese or goat cream cheese or sour cream.
Tip: Add whipped cream to the cream cheese for a lighter consistency.
 
2
May, 2024
Ancient Roman Pullum Parthicum

Ancient Roman Pullum Parthicum

How to cook 34 authentic global recipes without tedious planning.

Aromatic Spiced Red Wine Chicken

All you need for this recipe are chicken, red wine, and fish sauce. If you don’t have fish sauce, you can substitute it with anchovy paste, soy sauce, tamari, or liquid aminos. Our spice blend with lovage and asafoetida adds a unique and special flavor to the dish.
red wine

Here’s a quick overview of the cooking steps:

  1. Mix the sauce

  2. Roast chicken in sauce

  3. Optionally, thicken sauce

fish sauce
lovage
Lovage is an herb with a flavor reminiscent of celery and parsley, commonly used in soups, stews, and salads for its aromatic and slightly sweet taste.
asafoetida
Asafoetida is a pungent spice known for its strong, sulfurous aroma that mellows into a leek-like flavor when cooked. It’s a staple in Indian cuisine.
Ancient Roman Pullum Parthicum

Ancient Roman Pullum Parthicum

SpiceBreeze
Transport yourself back in time to the ancient streets of Rome, where culinary mastery was revered as much as military prowess. Pullum Parthicum is named after the ancient Parthian Empire that bordered Rome, embodies the fusion of flavors and techniques from across the ancient world, with its roots in both Roman and Middle Eastern cuisines. Join us on a culinary journey through time, exploring the origins and ingredients of this ancient dish that continues to captivate palates to this day.
Our spice blend with lovage and asafoetida adds a unique and special flavor to the dish.
Get your spice blend here. Limited time only!
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hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Ancient Rome
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs, with skin and bones [1]

Staples

  • 3/4 cup red wine
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce [2]
  • olive oil
  • salt
  • 1 tbsp flour or starch (optional)

Culinary Spice Blend

  • 1 pouch Pullum Parthicum spices Black pepper, garlic, caraway, lovage, asafoetida, celery

Suggested Sides

  • fresh bread
  • boiled potatoes
  • boiled vegetables e.g. cauliflower, broccoli, asparagus, cabbage, or kale

Instructions
 

Prepare

  • Season the chicken with salt [3] to taste.
  • Sauce: In a small BOWL, mix wine, fish sauce, 2 tbsp oil, and Pullum Parthicum spices.

Roast

  • Preheat the OVEN to 440°F.
  • Place the chicken skin side up into a BAKING PAN and pour the sauce over it.
  • Roast the chicken for about 30 minutes until it is tender.

Sauce (Optionally)

  • Slurry: In a CUP, stir 1 tbsp flour into 2 tbsp cold water until dissolved.
  • In a small POT, add leftover sauce. Stir the slurry into it. Bring to a boil.
  • Cook over medium heat until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir frequently.

Serve

  • Serve the juicy chicken with your preferred sides.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

[1]  Alternative: 1.5 lbs chicken breast with skin. 
If using chicken without skin, cover the chicken with aluminum foil.
[2]  Substitute: anchovy paste or soy sauce. More substitutes in our blog.
[3]  Recommended: 1 tsp
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Marceline Reid-Jaques
Marceline Reid-Jaques
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Karen Jones
Karen Jones
2022-12-05
Wonderful, flavorful meals using readily available ingredients!
ann davis
ann davis
2022-11-29
My daughter gave me a subscription as a Christmas present while our families were quarantining together. It was so much fun! It introduced us to several cuisines that were totally new to us. The recipes were easy to follow and the spices were transformative - fresh and pungent and delicious.
Jessica Brown
Jessica Brown
2022-05-22
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1
Apr, 2024
Portuguese Caldeirada de Peixe

Portuguese Caldeirada de Peixe

Portuguese Caldeirada de Peixe

Portuguese Caldeirada de Peixe

SpiceBreeze
Portuguese Caldeirada de Peixe is a traditional fish stew hailing from Portugal, renowned for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. This aromatic dish typically combines a variety of fish, such as cod, hake, and monkfish, with potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers. Seasoned with herbs like parsley and bay leaves, and often enriched with olive oil, this hearty stew embodies the essence of Portuguese coastal cuisine. Served piping hot, Caldeirada de Peixe delights the palate with its savory broth and tender fish, making it a beloved staple of Portuguese gastronomy.
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hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Portuguese
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 1.5 lb fish of your choice [1] cut into bite-size pieces

Fresh Produce

  • 1 bell pepper red is best; chopped
  • 1 red chili chopped; optional
  • 2 cups chopped tomatoes
  • 2 medium potatoes cubed

Special Ingredients

  • 1 cup white wine [2]
  • 1 cup fish broth [3]

Staples Group 1: Liquid, Dairy, Fat

  • oil best is olive oil

Staples Group 2: Salty, Sour, Sweet

  • salt & pepper

Staples Group 3: Breading, Onion & Co

  • 1 onion chopped
  • 1-2 cloves garlic chopped
  • 1 tbsp chopped cilantro or parsley leaves optional

Culinary Spice Kit

  • 1 pouch Caldeirada de Peixe spice blend Smoked paprika, orange peel, garlic, onion, turmeric, black and white pepper, parsley, bay leaves

Suggested Sides

  • fresh white bread
  • cooked rice

Instructions
 

  • In a POT, heat 2 tbsp oil over medium heat.
  • Add onions and bell pepper.
  • Fry them until they turn soft. Stir frequently.
  • Add garlic and optional chilies. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
  • Add Caldeirada de Peixe spices. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
  • Add wine, broth, tomatoes, and potatoes. Mix well.
  • Cover. Bring to a boil. Cook for 15 minutes.
  • Add fish. Cover. Cook for about 5 minutes until the fish is tender.
  • Optionally, garnish with cilantro or parsley leaves.
  • Serve Caldeirada de Peixe with your preferred side.

Notes

[1] We recommend using a base of white fish fillet, combined with shrimp, mussels, calamari, or scallops, to add variety in texture.
[2] Alternatives: fish or vegetable broth or tomato puree
[3] Alternatives: vegetable broth or water
26
Feb, 2024
Ukrainian Côtelette de Volaille

Ukrainian Côtelette de Volaille

How to cook 34 authentic global recipes without tedious planning.
Ukrainian Côtelette de Volaille

Ukrainian Côtelette de Volaille

SpiceBreeze
Côtelette de volaille is popular in Eastern Europe influenced by the French cuisine. It combines a crisp crust around thin meat, filled with butter, garlic, and herbs. Newer variations add cheese or vegetables to the filling. Our spice blend includes six herbs, including tarragon, chervil, and dill.
Don't prick the chicken, and cut the served rolls carefully to avoid splattering the golden goodness.
Stock up culinary spice kits - Limited time only!
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hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Ukrainian
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 1.5 chicken breast [1]

Dairy

  • 3 oz butter room temperature
  • 2 eggs whisked

Packaged Goods/Staples

  • 1.5 cups flour [2]
  • 1.5 cups breadcrumbs [3]
  • 1 cup oil
  • salt & pepper

Côtelette de Volaille Culinary Spice Kit

  • Garlic, onions, chervil, chives, tarragon, marjoram, dill, rosemary, orange peel, lime peel, celery  

Optional

  • 1 tbsp parsley freshly chopped
  • fresh garlic to taste grated
  • 1-2 slices cheese cheddar, for instance
  • 1-2 tbsp broccoli mashed
  • chili or paprika powder

Suggested Sides

  • mashed or boiled potatoes
  • rice steamed or cooked
  • asparagus, peas, cauliflower, broccoli, or carrots steamed or cooked
  • a fresh salad with a lemon dressing over tomatoes cucumber, watercress, and/or lettuce.
  • berry sauce see our cranberry sauce recipe ***

Instructions
 

1. Prepare the Herb Butter

  • In a BOWL, mix butter, Côtelette de Volaille spices, and optionally fresh garlic and/or parsley with a fork until well combined.
  • Shape a 1-inch thick log. Wrap it with cling wrap.
  • Freeze it for 20 minutes.

2. Flatten the Chicken

  • Cut each breast lengthwise in half. (How to)
  • Place each breast between two cling wraps.
  • Pound the breasts with a meat hammer until evenly thin.
    Be careful not to create holes in the breast.

3. Fill & Close Logs

  • Season each breast with salt & pepper to taste.
  • Cut the herb butter into equal parts, one for each chicken breast half.
  • Place one butter part on a chicken breast.
  • Optionally, add 1 tbsp broccoli or cheese to taste.
  • Roll, press, and fold until all sides are closed.
  • Wrap the rolled chicken breast into a cling wrap and close it tight.
  • Keep wrapped chicken rolls in the freezer for 20 minutes.

3. Prepare Chicken Rolls for Frying

  • Prepare 3 PLATES, one each for flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
  • Optionally, add chili powder to taste or 1/2 tsp paprika powder to the flour.
  • Roll each chicken roll on each PLATE until evenly covered.

4. Fry the Chicken Rolls

  • In a small PAN, heat 1 cup oil to 350°F.
  • Fry each chicken roll for about 2 minutes, turning frequently, until all sides are golden. Drain on a paper towel.

5. Bake the Chicken Rolls (after the Frying!)

  • Preheat OVEN to 350°F.
  • Bake chicken rolls for 15 minutes.
  • Take them out and let them rest for 5 minutes.

Serve

  • Serve chicken rolls with your preferred sides. Enjoy!

VARIATION - Skip the Roll - for 2 Chicken Breasts

  • Follow step 1.

2. Prepare Chicken Pockets

  • Cut lenghtwise into the chicken breast to create a pocket.
  • Season each breast with salt & pepper to taste.
  • Cut herb butter in half. Cut each half into small slices.
  • Place each half of the herb butter into one chicken breast.
  • Optionally, add cheese to taste.
  • Wrap each chicken breast into a cling wrap and close it tight.
  • Keep wrapped chicken breasts in the freezer for 20 minutes.
  • Continue with step 3 and 4.
  • You can skip step 5 if you fry the chicken breast in step 4 until the chicken is done.

VARIATION - EASIEST - with Fried Chicken Strips

  • Follow step 1.
  • Cut chicken into 1/2 inch thin x 1 inch long strips.
  • Follow step 3. Optionally, you can skip step 3 if you really need to. The chicken will still taste good but not be crisp.
  • Follow step 4. Fried until the chicken is done.
  • Cut the butter into 1/4 inch slices.
  • Serve fried chicken strips with potatoes or rice topped with the butter slices. Add your preferred sides. Enjoy!

VARIATION - VEGETARIAN

  • Follow step 1.
  • Cut vegetables of your choice, for instance, eggplant, portbello, or zucchini, into 1/2 inch slices.
  • Follow step 3 and 4. Fry the strips until done.
  • Cut the butter into 1/4 inch slices.
  • Serve fried vegetables slices with potatoes or rice topped with the butter slices. Enjoy!

Notes

[1] Substitute chicken breast with a large boneless pork or veal cutlet.
[2] All purpose flour or a gluten free alternative.
[3] For a crust with more crunch, use freshly grated breadcrumbs or panko. 
Alternatively, substitute breadcrumbs with coarse ground nuts.
*** Cranberry sauce recipe - To substitute cranberries with raspberries, cut the recipe down to 1/3, reduce spices to a pinch cinnamon, and boil the sauce only for a few minutes.
SpiceBreeze
SpiceBreeze
4 Google reviews
Write a review
Marceline Reid-Jaques
Marceline Reid-Jaques
2022-12-14
Karen Jones
Karen Jones
2022-12-05
Wonderful, flavorful meals using readily available ingredients!
ann davis
ann davis
2022-11-29
My daughter gave me a subscription as a Christmas present while our families were quarantining together. It was so much fun! It introduced us to several cuisines that were totally new to us. The recipes were easy to follow and the spices were transformative - fresh and pungent and delicious.
Jessica Brown
Jessica Brown
2022-05-22
The best way to try new dishes!

Enter the Culinary World

Be Inspired | Explore your boundaries and creativity

Join Now
Explore
 

Ukrainian Côtelette de Volaille

Ukrainian Côtelette de Volaille

Côtelette de volaille is popular in Eastern Europe influenced by the French cuisine. It combines a crisp crust around thin meat, filled with butter, garlic, and herbs. Newer variations add cheese or vegetables to the filling. Our spice blend includes six herbs, including tarragon, chervil, and dill.

Don't prick the chicken, and cut the served rolls carefully to avoid splattering the golden goodness.

Stock up culinary spice kits – Limited time only!

Protein

  • 1.5 chicken breast*

Dairy

  • 3 oz butter (room temperature)
  • 2 eggs (whisked)

Packaged Goods/Staples

  • 1.5 cups flour
  • 1.5 cups bread crumbs**
  • 1 cup oil
  • salt & pepper

Côtelette de Volaille Culinary Spice Kit

  • Garlic, onions, chervil, chives, tarragon, rosemary, marjoram, parsley, dill, lime peel, orange peel, celery  

Optional

  • 1 tbsp parsley (freshly chopped )
  • fresh garlic to taste (grated)
  • 1-2 slices cheese (cheddar, for instance)
  • chili or paprika powder

Suggested Sides

  • mashed or boiled potatoes; rice (steamed or cooked)
  • asparagus (peas, cauliflower, broccoli, carrots (steamed or cooked))
  • a fresh salad with a lemon dressing over tomatoes (cucumber, watercress, and/or lettuce.)
  • berry sauce (see our cranberry sauce recipe ***)

1. Prepare the Herb Butter

  1. In a BOWL, mix butter, Côtelette de Volaille spices, and optionally fresh garlic and/or parsley with a fork until well combined.

  2. Form a 1-inch thick roll. Cover with cling wrap. Freeze it for 20 minutes.

2. Prepare the Chicken Rolls

  1. Cut each breast lengthwise in half.

  2. Place each breast between two cling wraps.

  3. Pound the breasts with a meat hammer until evenly thin. Be careful not to create holes in the breast.

  4. Season each breast with salt & pepper to taste.
  5. Cut herb butter in four equal parts.

  6. Place one butter part on a chicken breast.

  7. Optionally, add cheese to taste.

  8. Roll and fold until all sides are closed.

  9. Wrap the rolled chicken breast into a cling wrap and close it tight.
  10. Keep wrapped chicken rolls in the freezer for 20 minutes.

3. Prepare Chicken Rolls for Frying

  1. Prepare 3 PLATES, one each for flour, eggs, and bread crumbs.

  2. Optionally, add chili powder to taste or 1/2 tsp paprika powder to the flour.

  3. Roll each chicken roll on each PLATE until evenly covered.

4. Fry the Chicken Rolls

  1. In a small PAN, heat 1 cup oil to 350°F.

  2. Fry each chicken roll for about 2 minutes, turning frequently, until all sides are golden. Drain on a paper towel.

5. Bake the Chicken Rolls (after the Frying!)

  1. Preheat OVEN to 350°F.

  2. Bake chicken rolls for 15 minutes.

  3. Take them out and let them rest for 5 minutes.

Serve

  1. Serve chicken rolls with your preferred sides. Enjoy!

VARIATION – Skip the Roll – for 2 Chicken Breasts

  1. Follow step 1.

2. Prepare Chicken Pockets

  1. Cut lenghtwise into the chicken breast to create a pocket.

  2. Season each breast with salt & pepper to taste.

  3. Cut herb butter in half. Cut each half into small slices.

  4. Place each half of the herb butter into one chicken breast.

  5. Optionally, add cheese to taste.

  6. Wrap each chicken breast into a cling wrap and close it tight.

  7. Keep wrapped chicken breasts in the freezer for 20 minutes.

  8. Continue with step 3 and 4.

  9. You can skip step 5 if you fry the chicken breast in step 4 until the chicken is done.

VARIATION – EASIEST – with Fried Chicken Strips

  1. Follow step 1.

  2. Cut chicken into 1/2 inch thin x 1 inch long strips.

  3. Follow step 3. Optionally, you can skip step 3 if you really need to. The chicken will still taste good but not be crisp.

  4. Follow step 4. Fried until the chicken is done.

  5. Cut the butter into 1/4 inch slices.

  6. Serve fried chicken strips with potatoes or rice topped with the butter slices. Add your preferred sides. Enjoy!

VARIATION – VEGETARIAN

  1. Follow step 1.

  2. Cut vegetables of your choice, for instance, eggplant, portbello, or zucchini, into 1/2 inch slices.

  3. Follow step 3 and 4. Fry the strips until done.

  4. Cut the butter into 1/4 inch slices.

  5. Serve fried vegetables slices with potatoes or rice topped with the butter slices. Enjoy!

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* Substitute chicken breast with a large boneless pork or veal cutlet.

** For a crust with more crunch, use freshly grated bread crumbs or panko. 
Alternatively, substitute bread crumbs with coarse ground nuts.

*** Cranberry sauce recipe – To substitute cranberries with raspberries, cut the recipe down to 1/3, reduce spices to a pinch cinnamon, and boil the sauce only for a few minutes.

 

Main Course
Ukrainian
chervil, chives, dill, orange peel, tarragon

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