Wiener schnitzel

Pork Schnitzels with Cloves and Thyme: The Perfect Recipe for a Delicious Dinner

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the delicious world of schnitzels! These crispy and flavorful dishes are a true culinary indulgence, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Pork schnitzels are not just a popular dish, but also a recipe with a rich history, deeply rooted in culinary traditions from many corners of the world. Today, I will share the secrets of a perfect schnitzel recipe, seasoned with cloves and thyme, that will impress any food lover.

Ingredients

- 900 g pork tenderloin (the small one)
- 3 eggs
- 250 g breadcrumbs
- 150 g flour
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- Oil for frying
- Plastic wrap

Ingredient Details

Pork Tenderloin: Choose a piece of fresh, quality meat, free from thick skin or excess fat. Pork tenderloin is a perfect option for schnitzels as it is tender and easy to prepare.

Thyme and Cloves: These spices not only add a unique flavor but also a special character to the dish. Cloves have a sweet-bitter note, while thyme provides a freshness that perfectly complements the taste of the meat.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork tenderloin under cold running water and drying it with a paper towel. Remove any thick skin and cut the meat into portions of about 2-3 cm across.

2. Seasoning the meat: Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, and ground cloves over each piece of meat. This step is essential to ensure a rich and flavorful taste.

3. Tenderizing the meat: Place each piece of meat between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound the meat until it becomes thin. This will not only make the schnitzels more tender but will also allow for even cooking.

4. Preparing the breading stations: In a deep plate, beat the 3 eggs with a pinch of salt. Place the flour on a flat plate and the breadcrumbs in a separate tray. This organization will help you bread each piece of meat evenly.

5. Breading: Take each piece of meat, first dredge it in flour, making sure to let the excess fall back onto the plate. Then, dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it with breadcrumbs. Ensure the breadcrumbs cover the meat well, pressing gently with your palm to secure the crust.

6. Frying: In a deep frying pan, heat the oil. When the oil is hot (test by adding a small piece of breadcrumb, which should sizzle), add the schnitzels, frying one or two at a time, depending on the size of the pan. Fry each schnitzel for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy.

7. Draining: Once the schnitzels are done, remove them to a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

Serving and Sides

These pork schnitzels can be served with various sides, from creamy mashed potatoes, fresh salads, or sautéed vegetables. A slice of lemon and a few fresh parsley leaves will add a touch of freshness.

Practical Tips

- Marinating time: If you want the schnitzels to be even more tender, let them marinate in a little olive oil, crushed garlic, and herbs for an hour before preparing.
- Frying oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower oil or peanut oil, to avoid burning.
- Oven version: If you want to make a healthier version, you can bake the schnitzels in the oven at 200°C for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This pork schnitzel recipe offers about 400 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used. Pork tenderloin is an excellent source of protein, and the breadcrumbs add necessary carbohydrates for energy. Consumed in moderation, this dish can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use chicken instead of pork? Yes, this recipe works great with chicken or turkey as well.
- How can I make the schnitzels spicier? Add a pinch of chili powder to the breadcrumbs or the egg mixture for an extra kick.
- Can schnitzels be frozen? Yes, schnitzels can be frozen after cooking. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap.

Conclusion

These pork schnitzels with cloves and thyme are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With each bite, you will experience the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Experiment with sides and sauces to customize this dish to your taste. Enjoy your meal!