Savoury Roll – A Rustic Ham and Cheese Roulade

This Savoury Roll is a rustic, flavourful dish ideal for any meal or gathering. A light, fluffy egg base is baked and then layered with creamy mayonnaise, savoury ham, fresh rocket, and melting cheese. Rolled tightly, chilled, and finished with a ham topping, it makes an elegant, portable, and versatile dish suitable for lunchboxes, brunches, or as a party appetiser.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

The combination of a soft, airy egg base with savoury layers of ham and cheese, accented by peppery rocket, makes every bite flavourful and satisfying. It is visually appealing, easy to slice, and versatile enough to serve cold or at room temperature. This roll is a perfect balance of richness, freshness, and rustic charm.

What Is a Savoury Roll?

A Savoury Roll is a type of rolled egg-based bake that is common in many European cuisines. The concept of a rolled cake or roulade dates back to the 19th century as a practical way to combine a light sponge with flavourful fillings, often for picnics or festive meals. In this recipe, the airy egg base acts as a flexible canvas for ingredients like ham, cheese, and fresh rocket, while mayonnaise adds creaminess and flavour. The dish is versatile and can be adapted with different fillings depending on taste or occasion.

Cooking Tips

Whisk the eggs thoroughly until light and fluffy to incorporate air, which will make the base soft and pliable for rolling without cracking.
Sift the flour into the egg mixture gradually and fold gently to maintain the airy texture of the base and avoid dense spots.
Spread the filling evenly across the cooled base to ensure each slice has a consistent balance of flavours.
Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and chill to help it maintain shape and make slicing easier without the filling spilling.
Add the topping ham slices just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent the mayonnaise from making the exterior soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute the Ham?
Yes, cooked turkey, prosciutto, or even roasted vegetables can be used for a different flavour profile or to make a lighter version.

Can I Use Different Cheese?
Any melting cheese like mozzarella, Gouda, or Emmental works well and gives a different flavour and texture to the roll.

Can I Add Herbs or Spices?
Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill can be added to the mayonnaise for extra aroma, or a pinch of black pepper to enhance the flavours.

Can I Make Individual Rolls?
Yes, divide the batter into smaller portions and use smaller trays to make individual-sized rolls, ideal for parties or lunchboxes.

Can I Serve This Warm?
While it can be served warm, the roll is easier to slice and holds together better when slightly chilled.

How to Store

Store the prepared roll, wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 days. Chilling helps the roll hold its shape and keeps the filling firm.

To freeze, wrap the assembled, uncut roll tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.

Ingredients

For the Base

3 eggs
5 g (1 tsp) sugar
60 ml (¼ cup) vegetable oil
A pinch of salt
90 g (¾ cup) plain flour

For the Filling

60 g mayonnaise
190 g ham
Fresh rocket
8 cheese slices

For the Topping

20 g mayonnaise
3 ham slices

How to Make This Savoury Roll

In a bowl, whisk the eggs until light and fluffy.
Add the sugar, vegetable oil, and salt, and mix with an electric whisk.
Add the sifted flour and mix until the batter is smooth.
Pour the batter onto a baking tray lined with baking paper and level it out.
Bake at 180°C (355°F) for about 8 minutes. Allow the base to cool.
Spread the mayonnaise over the cooled base, then distribute the ham, rocket, and cheese slices evenly.
Roll the base tightly, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Remove the film, spread the mayonnaise over the surface, and cover with the slices of ham and a few rocket leaves.
Cut the savoury roll into slices and serve.

Enjoy this elegant, versatile savoury roll.