Jaeger Schnitzel Recipe

Cook Time: 120 minutes

This hearty dish features tender, golden pork chops served over a bed of egg noodles and topped with a rich mushroom gravy. It's the perfect meal for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless pork chops, cubed
• Oil for frying
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Plain bread crumbs
• 3 (1 ounce) packages dry mushroom gravy mix
• 1 pound fresh mushrooms, coarsely chopped
• 1 (16 ounce) package dry egg noodles

Directions

1. Start by pounding out the cubed pork and cutting it in half to ensure even cooking.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
3. Dip each piece of pork into the beaten eggs, then coat it with bread crumbs, and place it into the hot oil.
4. Cook the pork, turning occasionally, until each piece is golden brown. Once done, transfer the pork to a warm plate.
5. In a separate bowl, prepare the mushroom gravy mix according to the package directions.
6. Add the coarsely chopped mushrooms to the gravy and cook together until the mushrooms soften and the gravy thickens.
7. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil and add the egg noodles.
8. Cook the noodles for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
9. To serve, place the golden-brown pork chops over the cooked egg noodles and generously smother with the mushroom gravy.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	455
Total Fat	9g (12% DV)
Saturated Fat	3g (14% DV)
Cholesterol	169mg (56% DV)
Sodium	828mg (36% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	54g (19% DV)
Dietary Fiber	3g (11% DV)
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	39g (77% DV)
Vitamin C	2mg (2% DV)
Calcium	70mg (5% DV)
Iron	4mg (21% DV)
Potassium	814mg (17% DV)

Servings per Recipe: 8

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your individual calorie needs.

Origin and History of Jaeger Schnitzel

Jaeger Schnitzel, or "Hunter's Schnitzel," is a traditional German dish with deep roots in the culinary history of Germany. The name "Jaeger" refers to "hunter" in German, symbolizing the dish's rustic, hearty character. This meal was inspired by hunters who would return from the forests, eager for a filling meal to replenish their energy. The combination of breaded pork cutlets with a rich mushroom sauce is said to reflect the kind of meals enjoyed by hunters after a successful day in the woods. The dish is typically made using pork, though other meats like veal or chicken can be used depending on regional preferences and available ingredients.

Regional Variations of Jaeger Schnitzel

While Jaeger Schnitzel is widely enjoyed across Germany, regional variations exist. In southern Germany, the dish is often paired with traditional sides like Sptzle, a type of egg noodle, or roasted potatoes. In other areas, it is more common to serve it with mashed potatoes or even rice. The gravy itself can vary depending on the region, with some versions adding cream or wine to the sauce for a richer, more luxurious flavor. In Bavaria, Jaeger Schnitzel is often paired with a side of sweet and sour red cabbage, creating a well-rounded and flavorful meal.

Distinction from Similar Dishes

Jaeger Schnitzel is closely related to the well-known Wiener Schnitzel, which is a breaded and fried veal cutlet. However, the key difference lies in the mushroom gravy that accompanies Jaeger Schnitzel. While Wiener Schnitzel is typically served with a slice of lemon and perhaps a side of lingonberry jam, Jaeger Schnitzel is smothered in a hearty, earthy mushroom sauce. This makes Jaeger Schnitzel a more robust dish, ideal for colder months when a rich, comforting meal is desired. Additionally, Jaeger Schnitzel is often served with a starch, such as noodles, which is less common with Wiener Schnitzel.

Where is Jaeger Schnitzel Typically Served?

Jaeger Schnitzel is a popular dish served in traditional German restaurants and gasthaus (guesthouses) throughout Germany and Austria. It is often featured on the menus of restaurants that specialize in hearty, home-style cooking. You can also find this dish in German beer gardens, where it is served alongside local brews and other regional specialties. Internationally, Jaeger Schnitzel is beloved in places with large German communities, such as the United States, Canada, and Argentina, where it is frequently served at Oktoberfest celebrations and German-themed restaurants.

Interesting Facts About Jaeger Schnitzel

• The mushroom sauce used in Jaeger Schnitzel is sometimes referred to as "Jgersoe" in Germany and can be made with a variety of wild mushrooms, giving it a unique, earthy flavor.
• Despite its name, Jaeger Schnitzel is not exclusively a hunters dish. Its origins are more about providing sustenance to those working in rural areas or enjoying the outdoors.
• The concept of breaded and fried meat cutlets dates back to the 19th century, with different cultures across Europe claiming variations of the dish. The most famous is the Austrian Wiener Schnitzel, which inspired many similar recipes.
• In Germany, Jaeger Schnitzel is often considered comfort food, particularly during the colder months of the year when rich, hearty dishes are particularly comforting.
• Jaeger Schnitzel can also be made with chicken or turkey cutlets, offering a lighter alternative to the traditional pork version.

FAQ about Jaeger Schnitzel Recipe

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