Feta Fig Squash stuffed PORK roll

Directions

1. . Prepare and set aside all the stuffing ingredients in advance.
2. . BUTTERFLY FILET: (my technique) Clean the tenderloin pork by skimming off any excess thin layer of fat. On a cutting board, place the long tenderloin vertically at a right angle to your body. With one hand, hold down the meat, while the other hand slices throughout the whole length with a very sharp knife. Careful to stop the cut at the center point. Open the filet. Now, flip the filet to the other side as flat as possible. Afterwards, from the center, carefully slice two other flaps, one out to each side. Again, be very careful not to cut to the end. Open these two flaps outward. You now have your flat tenderloin filet. If there happens to be small gaps, no need to panic, just slice thin pieces of meat from some other thicker portions in order to share and proceed to patch up the holes.
3. . STUFFING the 'butterflied' FILET: Prepare a plastic wrap the length of the filet and set aside and close by. Brush and spread the Dijon mustard throughout the flattened filet. Sprinkle all the seasoning. In the center of the filet, add and layer the squash, feta cheese and figs. Leave a good frame (about 1 inch/2.5cm) around the perimeter in order for these ingredients to remain within the roll. Afterwards, the filet can now be shaped into a cylinder (original loin's shape) by flapping the longest side over one long end and rolling tightly but gently. Transfer the filet onto the plastic and roll very tightly. Twist both ends of the plastic wrap and tuck under. In order for the roll to develop a holding structure and for the flavours to penetrate, place the roll onto a plate and into the refrigerator for a minimum of 1 hour (or for up to 24 hours). Take the roll out 30 minutes before getting it cooked. The plastic should be taken off only right before placing the meat in the skillet.
4. . COOKING: Use a deep enough large skillet. Sear the roll of pork loin (fold side down) into the melted butter and oil on medium-high heat. The browning of the meat will take place within the first 2-3 minutes. Afterwards, gently turn it over to the other side to complete its cooking. Pour the Port wine over the roll and let the alcohol deglaze the pan as it evaporates. Cover the pan with the lid ajar for 5 more minutes. It should be done. IMPORTANT NOTE : This meat can be very tender...only IF it is slightly under-cooked. Careful not to over cook this safe 'pinkness' stage...or else you will remain disappointed with tougher tasting meat. Pork tenderloin can not truly be eaten any other way.
5. . RESTING before SERVING: Transfer the rolled filet onto a shallow pan and let it stand with a tight, foil tent for about 10 more minutes. The resting period is very important, don't skip this step. This process will continue to lightly cook the meat. The juices will install themselves where they need to go in order to reward your patience. The Port wine reduction remaining in the pan can later be used to drizzle over the meat slices. Transfer meat roll onto a cutting board and slice it into 1 inch (2.5cm) thick pieces.
6. . Serve with a with a side of roasted onions and sweet potatoes or side dish of your choice.
7. . Claudia's flavourful wishes...on FOODESSA.com