Cordon bleu, a dish that evokes the elegance and sophistication of French cuisine, is a staple of fine dining restaurants around the world. This classic dish, consisting of chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried, is a crowd-pleaser that can be served at any occasion, from a romantic dinner for two to a large dinner party. In this article, we will explore the history of cordon bleu, its various variations, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook this deliciously elegant dish.
A Brief History of Cordon Bleu
The origins of cordon bleu are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have originated in Switzerland in the 1940s. The name “cordon bleu” is French for “blue ribbon,” which was a term used to describe a high-quality dish. The original recipe consisted of a chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried. Over time, variations of the recipe emerged, with different types of meat, cheese, and fillings being used.
Types of Cordon Bleu
While the classic recipe for cordon bleu consists of chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, there are many variations of this dish that can be found around the world. Some popular variations include:
- Turkey cordon bleu: This variation uses turkey breast instead of chicken breast and is often served at Thanksgiving and Christmas.
- Vegetarian cordon bleu: This variation uses a meat substitute, such as tofu or tempeh, instead of chicken breast and is often served at vegetarian restaurants.
- Seafood cordon bleu: This variation uses shrimp or scallops instead of chicken breast and is often served at seafood restaurants.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To cook cordon bleu, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of cheese (such as Swiss or cheddar)
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
- A meat mallet or rolling pin
- A cutting board
- A knife
- A frying pan
- A plate
Preparing the Chicken Breasts
Before you can start cooking the cordon bleu, you need to prepare the chicken breasts. To do this, follow these steps:
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover them with plastic wrap.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts until they are thin and even.
- Remove the plastic wrap and season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Pounding the Chicken Breasts
Pounding the chicken breasts is an important step in cooking cordon bleu. This helps to thin out the chicken breasts, making them easier to roll and stuff. To pound the chicken breasts, follow these steps:
- Place the chicken breast on a cutting board and cover it with plastic wrap.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken breast until it is thin and even.
- Be careful not to pound the chicken breast too thin, as this can cause it to tear.
Assembling the Cordon Bleu
Once the chicken breasts are prepared, you can start assembling the cordon bleu. To do this, follow these steps:
- Place a slice of ham on each chicken breast, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Place a slice of cheese on top of the ham.
- Fold the chicken breast over the filling, making sure to seal the edges.
- Use toothpicks to hold the chicken breast in place.
Breading the Cordon Bleu
Once the cordon bleu is assembled, you need to bread it. To do this, follow these steps:
- Dip the cordon bleu in the flour, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Dip the cordon bleu in the eggs, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Roll the cordon bleu in the breadcrumbs, making sure to coat it evenly.
Tips for Breading the Cordon Bleu
Breading the cordon bleu can be a bit tricky, but here are some tips to help you get it right:
- Make sure to coat the cordon bleu evenly with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Use a light touch when breading the cordon bleu, as this can help prevent the breadcrumbs from falling off.
- Use a plate or tray to bread the cordon bleu, as this can help prevent the breadcrumbs from getting all over the counter.
Cooking the Cordon Bleu
Once the cordon bleu is breaded, you can start cooking it. To do this, follow these steps:
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Place the cordon bleu in the frying pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the cordon bleu from the frying pan and place it on a plate.
Tips for Cooking the Cordon Bleu
Cooking the cordon bleu can be a bit tricky, but here are some tips to help you get it right:
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the cordon bleu, as this can help prevent it from sticking to the pan.
- Use a thermometer to make sure the oil is at the right temperature, as this can help prevent the cordon bleu from burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the cordon bleu to stick together.
Serving the Cordon Bleu
Once the cordon bleu is cooked, you can start serving it. To do this, follow these steps:
- Slice the cordon bleu into thin slices.
- Serve the cordon bleu with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
Tips for Serving the Cordon Bleu
Serving the cordon bleu can be a bit tricky, but here are some tips to help you get it right:
- Make sure to slice the cordon bleu thinly, as this can help prevent it from falling apart.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the cordon bleu, as this can help prevent it from tearing.
- Serve the cordon bleu with a variety of sides, as this can help add flavor and texture to the dish.
In conclusion, cooking cordon bleu is a bit of a process, but with the right ingredients and equipment, you can create a deliciously elegant dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or a romantic dinner for two, cordon bleu is a dish that is sure to please. So next time you’re looking for a new recipe to try, consider giving cordon bleu a shot. You won’t be disappointed!
What is Cordon Bleu and where did it originate?
Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that originated in Switzerland and consists of thinly sliced ham and Swiss cheese stuffed inside a chicken breast, then breaded and fried. The name “Cordon Bleu” is French, meaning “blue ribbon,” which refers to the high-quality ingredients and cooking techniques used in the dish.
The origins of Cordon Bleu are unclear, but it is believed to have been created in the 1940s by Swiss chefs who were looking to create a dish that would showcase the country’s rich culinary heritage. The dish quickly gained popularity around the world and has since become a staple of fine dining restaurants and home cooks alike.
What type of ham is best to use for Cordon Bleu?
When it comes to choosing a ham for Cordon Bleu, it’s best to use a high-quality, thinly sliced ham that is not too salty or overpowering. Some popular options include prosciutto, serrano ham, and Black Forest ham. These types of ham have a delicate flavor and a tender texture that pairs well with the chicken and cheese.
It’s also important to choose a ham that is sliced thinly, as this will make it easier to roll up inside the chicken breast. Look for ham that is labeled as “thinly sliced” or “deli-style” to ensure that it is the right thickness for the dish.
Can I use different types of cheese for Cordon Bleu?
While traditional Cordon Bleu recipes call for Swiss cheese, there are many other types of cheese that you can use as a substitute. Some popular options include Gruyère, Emmental, and Gouda. These cheeses have a rich, nutty flavor that pairs well with the ham and chicken.
When choosing a cheese, look for one that is firm and has a mild flavor. Avoid using soft cheeses like brie or feta, as they can be too runny and may not hold up well to the cooking process. You can also experiment with different combinations of cheese to find the one that you like best.
How do I prevent the cheese from melting out of the chicken during cooking?
One of the biggest challenges when cooking Cordon Bleu is preventing the cheese from melting out of the chicken during cooking. To prevent this, make sure to seal the edges of the chicken breast tightly with toothpicks or kitchen twine. This will help to keep the cheese inside the chicken as it cooks.
Another tip is to chill the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help to firm up the cheese and prevent it from melting out of the chicken as it cooks. You can also try using a cheese that has a higher melting point, such as Gruyère or Emmental.
Can I bake Cordon Bleu instead of frying it?
Yes, you can definitely bake Cordon Bleu instead of frying it. In fact, baking is a healthier and easier way to cook the dish. To bake Cordon Bleu, simply place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Baking Cordon Bleu also helps to prevent the cheese from melting out of the chicken, as the heat is more gentle and even. You can also try using a combination of baking and broiling to get a crispy exterior on the chicken.
How do I serve Cordon Bleu?
Cordon Bleu is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. One popular way to serve it is with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts. You can also serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or a salad.
For a more elegant presentation, try slicing the Cordon Bleu into medallions and serving it with a sauce, such as a creamy mushroom sauce or a tangy lemon butter sauce. You can also garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for a pop of color and flavor.
Can I make Cordon Bleu ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make Cordon Bleu ahead of time. In fact, it’s a great dish to prepare in advance, as the flavors will meld together and the chicken will be more tender. To make Cordon Bleu ahead of time, simply assemble the dish up to the point where you would bread the chicken, then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to cook it.
When you’re ready to cook the Cordon Bleu, simply remove it from the refrigerator or freezer and bread it according to the recipe. Then, cook the Cordon Bleu as directed and serve hot. You can also cook the Cordon Bleu ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to serve it.