Shnitzel is a popular main dish in Jewish cuisine, often made with chicken or veal that is breaded and fried until crispy. Its origins can be traced to European Jewish communities, where it became a staple due to its simplicity and versatility. The dish is commonly served with sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
Making Shnitzel:
1. Ingredients
1 pound boneless chicken breasts or veal cutlets, pounded thin; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Vegetable oil for frying; Lemon wedges for serving
2. Prepare the Meat
Place the chicken breasts or veal cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound them to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This ensures even cooking.
3. Set Up Breading Stations
Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder; one with beaten eggs; and one with breadcrumbs. This assembly line makes the breading process efficient.
4. Bread the Meat
Dredge each piece of meat first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350u00b0F (175u00b0C). To test, a breadcrumb should sizzle when dropped in the oil.
6. Fry the Shnitzel
Carefully place the breaded meat into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve
Serve the Shnitzel hot with lemon wedges on the side. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.
Traditions and Heritage of Shnitzel
Shnitzel
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is schnitzel?
Schnitzel is a thin slice of meat, usually chicken, veal, or turkey, that is breaded and fried. It's a popular dish in Jewish cuisine, especially in Ashkenazi traditions.
Is schnitzel a Jewish food?
While schnitzel originated in Austria, it became widely popular in Jewish communities, particularly in Israel, where it's often made with chicken or turkey due to kosher dietary laws.
What's the difference between Wiener Schnitzel and Israeli schnitzel?
Wiener Schnitzel is traditionally made with veal and is an Austrian dish, while Israeli schnitzel is typically made with chicken or turkey and is a staple in Israeli cuisine, adapted by Jewish immigrants.
How do you make kosher schnitzel?
To make kosher schnitzel, use kosher-certified poultry (like chicken or turkey), ensure all ingredients are kosher, and avoid mixing meat with dairy products during preparation and serving.
What do you serve with schnitzel?
In Jewish cuisine, schnitzel is often served with sides like mashed potatoes, Israeli salad, hummus, or tahini. It can also be eaten in a pita or with challah bread.
