Schnitzel, a popular dish that originated in Austria and Germany, has been a staple of European cuisine for centuries. The breaded and fried cutlet of meat, usually pork, chicken, or veal, has gained worldwide recognition and is enjoyed in various forms and flavors. However, many people are unaware that schnitzel has another name, which is widely used in different parts of the world. In this article, we will delve into the history of schnitzel, its variations, and the other name it is known by.
A Brief History of Schnitzel
The origins of schnitzel date back to the 18th century in Austria, where it was known as “Wiener Schnitzel.” The dish was made with a thinly sliced veal cutlet, breaded and fried in butter. Over time, the recipe spread throughout Europe, and different countries adapted it to their taste. In Germany, schnitzel was made with pork or chicken, while in Italy, it was known as “cotoletta” and was often served with a side of tomato sauce.
The Evolution of Schnitzel
As schnitzel gained popularity, it underwent many transformations. The original Wiener Schnitzel recipe was modified to include different types of meat, breading, and seasonings. In some countries, schnitzel was served with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, ham, or mushrooms. The dish also became a staple of fast food chains, with many restaurants offering their own version of schnitzel.
Regional Variations of Schnitzel
Schnitzel has many regional variations, each with its unique flavor and ingredients. Some of the most popular variations include:
- Wiener Schnitzel: The original Austrian recipe made with veal, breaded and fried in butter.
- Jägerschnitzel: A German variation topped with a rich mushroom sauce.
- Cotoletta: An Italian version made with breaded and fried veal or pork, often served with tomato sauce.
- Schnitzel Cordon Bleu: A variation stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried.
Another Name for Schnitzel
So, what’s another name for schnitzel? The answer lies in the Italian variation of the dish. In Italy, schnitzel is known as “cotoletta,” but it’s also referred to as “cutlet.” However, the most widely used alias for schnitzel is “cutlet” in the form of milanesa or escalope. These names are used in different parts of the world, particularly in Latin America and Europe.
Milanesa: The Latin American Alias
Milanesa is a popular dish in Latin America, particularly in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. It’s made with breaded and fried cutlets of meat, usually beef or chicken. The dish is believed to have originated from Italian immigrants who brought their version of schnitzel to South America. Over time, milanesa became a staple of Latin American cuisine, with different countries adapting the recipe to their taste.
Types of Milanesa
Milanesa has many variations, each with its unique flavor and ingredients. Some of the most popular types of milanesa include:
- Milanesa de carne: A beef cutlet breaded and fried, often served with a side of fries or salad.
- Milanesa de pollo: A chicken cutlet breaded and fried, often served with a side of mashed potatoes or vegetables.
- Milanesa de pescado: A fish cutlet breaded and fried, often served with a side of tartar sauce.
Escalope: The European Alias
Escalope is a French term used to describe a thinly sliced cutlet of meat, usually veal or pork. The dish is breaded and fried, often served with a side of vegetables or salad. Escalope is a popular dish in Europe, particularly in France, Belgium, and Switzerland.
Types of Escalope
Escalope has many variations, each with its unique flavor and ingredients. Some of the most popular types of escalope include:
- Escalope de veau: A veal cutlet breaded and fried, often served with a side of lemon wedges.
- Escalope de porc: A pork cutlet breaded and fried, often served with a side of apple sauce.
- Escalope de poulet: A chicken cutlet breaded and fried, often served with a side of mashed potatoes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, schnitzel has many aliases, but the most widely used ones are milanesa and escalope. These names are used in different parts of the world, particularly in Latin America and Europe. Whether you call it schnitzel, milanesa, or escalope, the dish remains a popular staple of many cuisines around the world. Its versatility and flavor have made it a favorite among foodies and chefs alike. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a delicious breaded and fried cutlet of meat, remember that schnitzel has many names, but its taste remains the same.
| Country | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Austria | Wiener Schnitzel | A breaded and fried veal cutlet |
| Germany | Jägerschnitzel | A breaded and fried pork cutlet topped with mushroom sauce |
| Italy | Cotoletta | A breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet |
| Latin America | Milanesa | A breaded and fried cutlet of meat, usually beef or chicken |
| Europe | Escalope | A thinly sliced cutlet of meat, usually veal or pork, breaded and fried |
Note: The table provides a summary of the different names and descriptions of schnitzel in various countries.
What is Schnitzel?
Schnitzel is a popular dish that originated in Austria and Germany. It consists of a thin cutlet of meat, usually pork, chicken, or veal, that is breaded and fried. The breading is typically made from a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, and the meat is often seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices before being coated.
The result is a crispy exterior and a tender interior, making schnitzel a beloved dish around the world. It is often served with a side of lemon wedges, fries, or a salad, and it can be enjoyed as a main course or as a snack.
What are the different types of Schnitzel?
There are several types of schnitzel, each with its own unique characteristics. Wiener Schnitzel, for example, is a traditional Austrian dish made with veal, while Schnitzel Cordon Bleu is a variation that features ham and cheese inside the meat. Other popular types of schnitzel include Jägerschnitzel, which is topped with a rich mushroom sauce, and Zigeunerschnitzel, which is served with a spicy tomato sauce.
In addition to these traditional varieties, many modern restaurants and chefs have created their own unique schnitzel dishes, using different types of meat and creative breading ingredients. Some popular variations include chicken schnitzel, pork schnitzel, and even vegetarian schnitzel made with tofu or portobello mushrooms.
How is Schnitzel typically prepared?
Schnitzel is typically prepared by pounding the meat thin to make it more tender and easier to coat with breading. The meat is then seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices before being dredged in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. The breading is usually applied in a specific order, with the flour coming first, followed by the eggs, and finally the breadcrumbs.
Once the meat is fully coated, it is fried in a pan with oil or butter until it is golden brown and crispy. Some recipes may also call for the schnitzel to be baked in the oven instead of fried, which can be a healthier alternative. Either way, the key to making great schnitzel is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overcook the meat.
What are some popular sides to serve with Schnitzel?
Schnitzel is often served with a variety of sides to complement its rich and savory flavor. Some popular options include fries, which are a classic pairing in many European countries. A simple green salad or a side of braised red cabbage can also provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy schnitzel.
Other popular sides include German potato salad, which is made with boiled potatoes, onions, and vinegar, and Spätzle, which is a type of homemade noodle that is popular in Austria and Germany. Some restaurants may also offer more modern sides, such as roasted vegetables or quinoa salad, to provide a healthier and more contemporary twist.
Can Schnitzel be made at home?
Yes, schnitzel can be made at home with a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills. The key is to use high-quality meat and to not overcook it, as this can make the schnitzel tough and dry. It’s also important to use the right type of breading, as this can affect the texture and flavor of the final dish.
To make schnitzel at home, start by pounding the meat thin and seasoning it with salt, pepper, and other spices. Then, dredge the meat in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, and fry it in a pan with oil or butter until it is golden brown and crispy. Serve the schnitzel hot with your choice of sides, and enjoy!
Is Schnitzel a healthy food option?
Schnitzel can be a relatively unhealthy food option, depending on how it is prepared and what ingredients are used. The breading and frying process can add a lot of calories and fat to the dish, and the meat itself can be high in cholesterol and saturated fat.
However, there are ways to make schnitzel a healthier option. For example, you can use a lighter breading made with whole wheat flour and herbs, and bake the schnitzel in the oven instead of frying it. You can also choose leaner meats, such as chicken or turkey, and serve the schnitzel with healthier sides, such as a salad or roasted vegetables.
What are some variations of Schnitzel from around the world?
Schnitzel has become a popular dish around the world, and many countries have created their own unique variations. In Japan, for example, tonkatsu is a popular dish that features a breaded and fried pork cutlet. In Australia, schnitzel is often served with a side of tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
In the United States, schnitzel is often served in German and Austrian restaurants, where it is typically made with traditional ingredients and cooking methods. However, some modern chefs have also created their own unique variations, using ingredients such as buffalo chicken and blue cheese.