Schnitzels with baked potatoes like in Alba Iulia.

Schnitzels with Baked Potatoes like in Alba-Iulia: A Delicious Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I will take you on a culinary journey full of aromas and flavors, with a traditional recipe for schnitzels with baked potatoes, inspired by the famous dishes from Alba-Iulia. This dish will not only satisfy your craving for something tasty, but it will also bring a touch of nostalgia in every bite.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- For the schnitzels:
- 2 chicken breasts (preferably larger ones)
- 2 eggs
- 200g breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (palm oil is recommended, but olive oil is also a good choice)
- Salt
- Freshly ground pepper
- 2 teaspoons of sweet paprika
- Vegeta (a mix of dried vegetables, salt-free, from health food stores)

- For the baked potatoes:
- 1 kg potatoes (preferably suitable for baking)
- 50g butter
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt
- Freshly ground pepper
- 2 teaspoons of sweet paprika

A Little History

Schnitzel is a dish with deep roots in culinary history, appreciated in various forms around the world. From Wiener schnitzel to the most varied interpretations, schnitzel has become a symbol of culinary comfort. Paired with baked potatoes, this dish becomes a special meal, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Preparing the Baked Potatoes

1. Cleaning the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes. Choose medium-sized potatoes that bake evenly. Cut them into quarters or pieces, depending on your preference.

2. Seasoning: In a large bowl, place the cut potatoes and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 50g of butter, salt, freshly ground pepper, and 2 teaspoons of sweet paprika. Mix well so that each potato piece is evenly coated with the spices.

3. Baking: Transfer the potatoes to a baking dish, covering it with a lid. Place it in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Bake for 50 minutes, gently stirring halfway through.

4. Achieving Crispiness: After 50 minutes, remove the lid from the dish and continue baking for another 30 minutes on low heat to achieve a crispy crust and a beautiful golden color.

Preparing the Schnitzels

1. Preparing the chicken breast: Wash the chicken breast well and dry it with a paper towel to remove excess water. It is important for the meat to be dry to fry evenly.

2. Breading: Prepare a bowl with beaten eggs, adding a pinch of salt and pepper. In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Then take each chicken breast, dip it in the breadcrumbs, then in the egg, and again in the breadcrumbs. This technique will give the schnitzel a crispy and tasty crust.

3. Frying: Heat the oil in a deep pan. Once the oil is well heated, add the schnitzels. It is a good idea to turn them frequently to avoid burning and ensure they cook evenly. Generally, frying should take between 3 and 5 minutes on each side.

Serving

To enjoy this dish, I recommend serving the schnitzels alongside the baked potatoes, adding a slice of lemon to each serving. The lemon will add a touch of freshness. Also, a glass of white wine will perfectly complement this dish.

Useful Tips

- Variations: You can experiment with various spices in the breadcrumbs, such as grated parmesan or herbs like basil or oregano, to add extra flavor.

- Oil Maintenance: Ensure the oil is at a constant temperature. If it is too cold, the schnitzels will soak up oil, and if it is too hot, they will burn quickly.

- Potatoes: If you want a healthier option, you can use sweet potatoes, which will add a sweet note and a vibrant color to your dish.

Nutritional Information

This recipe for schnitzels with baked potatoes offers a balanced meal, rich in protein from the chicken breast and carbohydrates from the potatoes. The total caloric value of a serving is estimated at approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the oil used and the portion of schnitzel. The baked potatoes are a good source of fiber and vitamins, and olive oil brings healthy fats for the heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pork instead of chicken?
Yes, the pork version is just as delicious. Make sure it is cooked well to avoid any health issues.

2. How can I make the potatoes crispier?
An effective method is to soak them in cold water for 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch.

3. What side dishes go well with it?
Green salads, yogurt-based sauces, or mayonnaise are excellent options that complement this dish.

Conclusion

This recipe for schnitzels with baked potatoes is perfect for a family dinner, but also for moments when you want to impress friends. I encourage you to experiment with ingredients and put your personal touch on this recipe. Remember, cooking is an art form, and every meal can be a delicious story. Enjoy your meal!