Pork schnitzels

Crispy Pork Schnitzels – a classic and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Pork schnitzel is a dish that brings smiles to the faces of loved ones, serving as a symbol of family meals. This recipe is simple yet full of flavor, helping you achieve a perfectly crispy and golden schnitzel with a delicate texture inside.

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g pork tenderloin – choose fresh, quality tenderloin for a juicy final result
- 4 small eggs – fresh eggs ensure a better crust
- 4 tablespoons of flour – to help form the crust
- 10 tablespoons of breadcrumbs – choose quality breadcrumbs, preferably coarser ones for a crunchy texture
- Salt (or vegeta) – to enhance the flavors
- Pepper – freshly ground, if possible, for a richer taste
- Oil for frying – make sure it has a high smoke point, such as sunflower or peanut oil

Step by step to a perfect schnitzel:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the pork tenderloin into slices about 1 cm thick. Use a sharp knife to get even slices. Then, take each slice and gently pound it with a schnitzel hammer to flatten it. This step helps tenderize the meat, making it easier to cook and more enjoyable to eat.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the meat slices. It is important to let the meat absorb the flavors for 15-20 minutes. This step will make your schnitzel tastier.

3. Preparing the "breading station": In a bowl, beat the four eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper, mixing well. Prepare three plates: one with flour, another with the beaten eggs, and the third with breadcrumbs. This breading system is essential for achieving a perfect crust.

4. Breading: Take each slice of meat and first coat it in flour, ensuring it is evenly covered. Then, dip it in the beaten egg, letting the excess drip off. Finally, coat the schnitzel with breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.

5. Frying: In a deep pan, heat the oil. Check if it is hot enough by introducing a small piece of breadcrumb; if it sizzles, the oil is ready. Carefully place the schnitzels in the pan, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each schnitzel for 3-4 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy. Don’t forget to flip them with a spatula to ensure even frying.

6. Draining: Once the schnitzels are ready, remove them to a platter lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. This step will help maintain their crispiness.

Serving suggestions:

Pork schnitzel can be served plain or alongside various sides. A fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or fries are excellent choices. You can also add a slice of lemon or tartar sauce for extra flavor. A personal idea is to serve it with a sour cabbage salad, which provides a pleasant contrast between the crunch of the schnitzel and the acidity of the salad.

Tips and useful advice:

- Ensure the oil is hot enough to achieve a crispy crust. If the temperature is too low, the schnitzel will absorb oil and become greasy.
- You can experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko breadcrumbs, for an even crunchier crust.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add herbs (such as oregano or parsley) to the breadcrumbs.

Nutritional benefits:

Pork schnitzel, despite its reputation, can be part of a balanced diet, providing a good protein intake. Pork tenderloin is an excellent source of quality protein, and by adding healthy sides such as vegetables or salads, you can turn this dish into a nutritious option.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, this recipe works great with chicken as well. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices.

2. How can I keep the schnitzel crispy?
It’s best to serve the schnitzel immediately after frying. If you need to keep it, keep it in a preheated oven at 100°C to maintain warmth and crispiness.

3. Can I freeze the schnitzel?
Yes, you can freeze the schnitzels, but it’s best to freeze them before frying. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

In conclusion, pork schnitzel is a classic, versatile, and easy dish to make at home. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can impress anyone at your table. Enjoy your meal!