Mushroom schnitzels

Delicious Mushroom Schnitzel Recipe - A Perfect Choice for Fasting Days

If you are looking for a tasty and satisfying dish that combines health with flavor, then mushroom schnitzels are exactly what you need. This dish is not only ideal for fasting, but it can also become a favorite meal on regular days. Mushrooms, rich in nutrients, provide a pleasant texture and umami flavor, perfect for replacing meat in your diet.

The history of schnitzel dates back hundreds of years, and the mushroom variant is a delicious and accessible reinterpretation. Mushrooms are considered superfoods due to their low calorie content and richness in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. A serving of these delicious schnitzels can bring an extra boost of energy and vitality to your diet.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of large mushrooms (preferably champignon or portobello)
- 100 g of flour
- 5 eggs
- 200 g of breadcrumbs (you can use whole grain breadcrumbs for a healthier option)
- Oil for frying (approximately 500 ml)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step by step to prepare mushroom schnitzels:

1. Cleaning and slicing the mushrooms: Start by cleaning the mushrooms of their outer skin using a damp cloth or a special mushroom brush. Avoid washing them under running water, as mushrooms absorb water and lose their flavor. Cut the mushrooms into thick slices of about 1 cm. They will remain juicy inside and have a crispy crust on the outside.

2. Preparing the breading station: In a bowl, place the flour and add salt and pepper to taste. In another bowl, beat the eggs well until they become homogeneous. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs. This station will be where the mushrooms will receive each layer of breading.

3. Breading the mushrooms: Take each mushroom slice, dip it in flour, ensuring it is evenly coated. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drain. Finally, roll the mushroom slice in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make it stick well. Repeat the process for all mushroom slices.

4. Frying the schnitzels: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Check the oil temperature by adding a small cube of bread; if it sizzles and turns golden in a few seconds, the oil is ready. Add the mushroom slices, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden and crispy.

5. Draining the oil: Once the schnitzels are fried, remove them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the excess oil.

6. Serving: You can serve the mushroom schnitzels alongside a fresh arugula and cherry tomato salad or with a yogurt and garlic sauce for a pleasant contrast. Additionally, a side of mashed potatoes or fried potatoes would make a delicious combination.

Useful tips:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough to avoid excessive absorption of fat. Too low temperatures can make the schnitzels soft.
- You can experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as rye or spiced ones, to add extra flavor.
- If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the schnitzels in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen mushrooms? It is better to use fresh mushrooms, but if not available, frozen mushrooms can be used, making sure to thaw and drain them well before breading.
2. How can I store leftover schnitzels? Schnitzels can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.
3. What drinks go well with this dish? A dry white wine or a pale beer would perfectly complement the dish. Additionally, a cold green tea can add a refreshing note.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Each serving of mushroom schnitzels contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of oil used for frying. Mushrooms are a good source of protein, fiber, B vitamins, and antioxidants, being considered beneficial for the immune system and cardiovascular health.

Possible variations:
- Add herbs to the breadcrumbs, such as basil or oregano, to enrich the flavor.
- You can also try other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, for a mix of varied schnitzels.

So, don't hesitate to try this simple mushroom schnitzel recipe, which will not only satisfy your hunger but also bring you a boost of health. I look forward to hearing how it turned out for you! Enjoy your meal!