Veal Parmesan

Veal Parmesan: A Culinary Delight

Veal Parmesan, a beloved Italian-American dish, tantalizes taste buds with its tender veal, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese. This culinary masterpiece has become a staple in restaurants and home kitchens alike.

What is Veal Parmesan?

Veal Parmesan is a dish made with thinly sliced veal that is breaded, fried, and topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. The veal is typically pounded thin to ensure even cooking and tenderness. The breading, often made with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, creates a crispy exterior that contrasts with the soft interior of the veal.

The Veal

The quality of the veal is paramount to the success of Veal Parmesan. Look for veal that is pale pink in color and has a fine grain. Avoid veal that is dark or has a coarse grain, as this indicates an older animal and tougher meat.

The Breading

The breading not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the veal moist during cooking. A classic breading mixture consists of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Season the flour with salt and pepper for extra flavor.

The Marinara Sauce

The marinara sauce is the heart of Veal Parmesan. It should be flavorful and slightly acidic to balance the richness of the veal and cheese. Use a homemade marinara sauce or a high-quality store-bought version.

The Cheese

Traditionally, Veal Parmesan is topped with mozzarella cheese. However, other cheeses, such as provolone or Parmesan, can also be used. The cheese should be grated and evenly distributed over the veal.

Cooking Veal Parmesan

1. Pound the veal: Use a meat mallet to pound the veal slices thin.

2. Bread the veal: Dip the veal slices into the flour, then the eggs, and finally the breadcrumbs.

3. Fry the veal: Heat oil in a large skillet and fry the veal slices until golden brown on both sides.

4. Simmer in sauce: Transfer the fried veal to a baking dish and top with marinara sauce.

5. Bake: Bake the veal in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Veal Parmesan

Veal Parmesan is typically served hot with a side of pasta or vegetables. It can also be served on a bun as a sandwich.

Tips for the Perfect Veal Parmesan

Veal Parmesan is a culinary delight that combines the flavors of tender veal, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds.