Brain fried with new potatoes and cabbage salad

Delicious recipe for breaded brain with new potatoes and cabbage salad

The season of new potatoes is a special time for chefs and food lovers, and this recipe combines fresh ingredients and savory flavors to create a dish that will delight the taste buds. Breaded brain, served alongside crispy roasted potatoes and a crunchy cabbage salad, is a perfect choice both as a side dish and a main course. So, let’s begin our culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the breaded brain:
- 600-700 g fresh brain (preferably not frozen)
- 2 eggs
- Salt (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons of flour
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil (or sunflower oil)

For the new potatoes:
- 500-600 g new potatoes
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Thyme (dried or fresh, to preference)
- 1 tablespoon of duck fat (or butter)

For the cabbage salad:
- 1 small cabbage (preferably white or red, depending on preference)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Juice of ½ lemon

For the sauce:
- 4-5 tablespoons of Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Fresh dill (finely chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the brain
1. Start by cleaning the fresh brain, removing the membranes and any small bones. This step is essential for achieving a fine and delicate texture.
2. Place the cleaned brain in a colander to drain well.
3. In a plate, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt.
4. Dust the pieces of brain with salt and then coat them in flour, ensuring they are evenly covered.
5. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Make sure not to use too much oil; a moderate amount will help achieve a crispy crust.

Step 2: Frying the brain
1. Dip the pieces of brain in the beaten egg mixture, then carefully place them in the hot skillet.
2. Cover the skillet with a lid and fry each side for about 5 minutes, until they become golden and crispy. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Preparing the new potatoes
1. Wash the new potatoes well under cold running water, being careful to remove any impurities. There is no need to peel them, as the skin adds an interesting texture and extra nutrients.
2. Cut the potatoes into quarters and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
3. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and add the duck fat. Mix well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
4. Bake the potatoes in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 20 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.

Step 4: Preparing the cabbage salad
1. Finely chop the cabbage and place it in a bowl.
2. Massage the cabbage with a little salt; this will help soften the leaves and enhance the flavors.
3. In another bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the dressing over the cabbage and mix well. Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 5: Preparing the sauce
1. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with olive oil, salt, and chopped dill.
2. This creamy sauce will add a fresh taste and pleasant aroma to the dish.

Serving
Serve the breaded brain alongside the roasted potatoes and cabbage salad, drizzling everything with the yogurt and dill sauce. This combination not only looks wonderful but also provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Helpful tips
- Fresh brain: It is essential to use fresh brain, as frozen can become crumbly during frying.
- New potatoes: Cook them with the skin on for extra flavor and nutrients. You can also try other seasonings, such as smoked paprika or garlic powder, to add a personal touch.
- Variations: If desired, you can experiment with different types of salad, such as carrots or radishes, to add crunch and color.

Nutritional benefits
This dish provides a good source of protein from the brain and eggs, while the new potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins. The cabbage salad adds extra vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of meat instead of brain? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using chicken or fish, but the cooking time will vary.
- How can I store leftovers? Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? I recommend a glass of dry white wine or a light beer that perfectly complements the flavors.

Enjoy cooking and savoring this delicious dish! Don’t forget to share your culinary experience with loved ones!