Air Fryer Wiener Schnitzel Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 pound veal, scallopini cut
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Directions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400F (200C).
2. Place the veal on a clean surface. Sprinkle with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to season the meat.
3. In one shallow dish, pour the flour. In another dish, beat the egg and parsley together. In a third dish, place the panko bread crumbs.
4. Take each veal cutlet and dredge it first in the flour, then dip it in the egg-parsley mixture, and finally coat it with the bread crumbs. Press down gently to make sure the crumbs stick well to the meat.
5. Spray the basket of your air fryer with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
6. Carefully place the breaded veal cutlets into the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Spray the tops of the cutlets with nonstick cooking spray.
7. Cook the veal cutlets for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, flip the cutlets over, spray any dry spots with cooking spray, and cook for another 5 minutes.
8. Repeat this process with the remaining veal cutlets until all are cooked.
9. Serve the veal scallopini hot with fresh lemon wedges on the side.

Cook's Note: If your butcher doesn't provide veal in scallopini cuts, use a different cut and pound it to -inch thickness for best results.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 215
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 104mg
• Sodium: 239mg
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Total Sugars: 0g
• Vitamin C: 26mg
• Calcium: 40mg
• Iron: 1mg
• Potassium: 230mg

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

History and Origin of Wiener Schnitzel

The Wiener Schnitzel is a beloved dish with a rich history that dates back to the 19th century in Austria. The word "Wiener" refers to Vienna, where the dish is thought to have originated. However, similar breaded and fried meat cutlets have been enjoyed in various cultures for centuries. The modern version of Wiener Schnitzel, made with veal, became popular in Austria during the 1800s and was named after the city of Vienna, where it is considered a national dish. While the exact origins are debated, it is believed that the dish was influenced by both Italian and French cuisines, particularly the Italian "cotoletta alla milanese," which uses a similar technique of breading and frying meat.

Regional Variations and Unique Features

In Austria and Germany, Wiener Schnitzel is traditionally made with veal, though in some parts of the world, it is also made with pork or chicken. The breading typically consists of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, and the schnitzel is fried to crispy perfection. In some variations, the cutlet is served with a lemon wedge, while others may offer it with lingonberry sauce or potato salad. The dish is often accompanied by a side of vegetables, such as red cabbage or green beans, and in some regions, a rich gravy or mushroom sauce is added for extra flavor.

Distinction from Similar Dishes

While Wiener Schnitzel is often compared to other breaded meat cutlets like the Italian "cotoletta alla milanese" or the French "escalope," there are distinct differences that set the Wiener Schnitzel apart. The key differentiator is the use of veal as the primary meat in the traditional Austrian recipe. The method of cooking, which involves shallow frying or air frying, also gives the schnitzel its signature crispy texture. Additionally, the use of specific seasonings, like a hint of lemon juice, further distinguishes the dish from other breaded meat dishes, which may feature richer or heavier seasoning profiles.

Where Wiener Schnitzel is Typically Served

Wiener Schnitzel is a popular dish throughout Austria and Germany, where it is served in restaurants and homes alike. It is often featured in traditional Austrian restaurants, particularly in Vienna, where it is a symbol of local culinary heritage. Beyond Austria and Germany, Wiener Schnitzel is also enjoyed in various parts of Europe and North America. In some places, it is served as a comfort food or as part of a festive meal. It is commonly paired with side dishes like potato salad, mashed potatoes, or sauted vegetables, and accompanied by a refreshing beer or wine.

Interesting Facts About Wiener Schnitzel

Here are a few fun facts about Wiener Schnitzel:

• The dish is so iconic in Austria that it is often served at major celebrations and festivals, and it is considered a quintessential part of Austrian cuisine.
• Despite its association with Austria, some food historians believe that Wiener Schnitzel's roots can be traced to Italy, where the tradition of breading and frying meat was already well-established in the Middle Ages.
• Wiener Schnitzel is a versatile dish that can be adapted to various dietary preferences. Though traditionally made with veal, it can also be prepared with chicken, pork, or even tofu for vegetarian versions.
• The dish was featured in the 1969 American film "The Sound of Music," further cementing its place in popular culture.
• While the traditional method of preparing Wiener Schnitzel involves deep frying, modern variations, like the air fryer version, provide a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor and texture.

FAQ about Air Fryer Wiener Schnitzel Recipe

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