Belly Schnitzels (Sticks)

Today I propose a delicious and versatile recipe that will transform beef tripe into a crispy and savory dish, perfect for any occasion. It is a simple recipe, but it can be customized according to your preferences. We start by choosing the right ingredients, especially flour or breadcrumbs, depending on the desired texture. Durum wheat flour, often used for pasta, is an excellent choice as it will provide a consistent and tasty result.

The first step is to prepare the beef tripe. It should be cleaned and boiled in water over medium heat until it becomes tender and a fork easily penetrates it. This process takes about an hour and a half, but it is essential for achieving a pleasant texture. After the tripe is boiled, remove it from the water and let it cool. Then, cut it into slices or sticks according to your preferences.

In a bowl, beat a few eggs with a little water or milk to make them easier to use. This step helps to loosen the "nerve" of the egg, facilitating the breading process. Season the pieces of tripe with salt, preparing them for breading. This is where diversity comes into play: you can choose to bread the pieces in several ways. The first option includes flour, egg, and then breadcrumbs, creating a crispy crust. The second option consists of passing them through flour, egg, and then flour again for a denser texture.

To add a touch of originality, you can mix the flour with a little cornmeal, thus obtaining a more flavorful crust. Another delicious option is to combine flour with grated parmesan for an intense taste, followed by beaten egg and breadcrumbs. The possibilities are almost limitless, and experimentation can lead to surprising culinary discoveries.

After you have finished breading the pieces of tripe, try frying them in a pan with well-heated oil. Place the pieces one by one and let them brown. It is important to turn them carefully to achieve an even and golden crust on both sides. If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the pieces of tripe in a preheated oven at maximum heat, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, until they become crispy, although this process may take longer. Regardless of the method chosen, the result will be exceptional, delighting the taste buds of all who have the pleasure of tasting this delicacy.