Aubergine and Zucchini Cordon Bleu

17/11/2023

I can provide you with an Italian version of Cordon Bleu that substitutes the traditionally used chicken or veal with aubergines and zucchini. Here is how to prepare Aubergine and Zucchini Vegetarian Cordon Bleu.

Ingredients

2 aubergines
2 zucchini
150 g of mozzarella (or other melting cheese)
8 slices of cooked ham
Flour as needed
2 eggs
Breadcrumbs as needed
Salt and pepper as needed
Olive oil as needed or oil for frying

Preparation

Start by cutting the aubergines and zucchini into longitudinal slices about 5 mm thick. It is better to choose aubergines and zucchini that are not too wide to have slices of suitable size.
After cutting them, grill the aubergine and zucchini slices on a griddle or non-stick pan for a few minutes on each side, seasoning them lightly with oil, salt, and pepper. This step not only flavours the vegetables but also facilitates their cooking.
Cut the mozzarella into slices or sticks similar in size to the aubergine and zucchini slices.
Prepare the “Cordon Bleu” by placing on an aubergine slice a slice of cooked ham, and on top of it, place the mozzarella, then cover with a zucchini slice.
Dip the assembled slices in flour, then in beaten salted egg, and finally in breadcrumbs, making sure to seal the edges well.
Do a double breading if you want a crunchier shell and to seal better.
Heat the oil well in a frying pan and fry the aubergine and zucchini cordon bleus until they are golden brown on both sides.
Once ready, lay them on paper towels to remove the excess oil.
Serve hot.

Trivia

The term Cordon Bleu in cooking is associated with recipes involving a meat or fish wrapper filled with cheese and ham, all then breaded and cooked. The vegetable version is a modern variation that is suitable for those looking for a vegetarian option or who simply want to try something different. “Cordon Bleu” means “blue ribbon” and originally referred to a French chivalric order, whose highest honor was represented by a cross hanging from a blue ribbon. Over time, the term has been associated with high-quality dishes or sophisticated preparations in cooking.