Ah, Veal Parmesan! Just the thought of it makes my mouth water. This dish holds a special place in my heart, as it brings back fond memories of cozy Italian family dinners. I remember my grandma making it on special occasions—her secret sauce simmering on the stove, filling the house with its irresistible aroma. She would always tell me stories about her childhood in Italy while stirring the pot, and that warmth and comfort complete the experience of this dish.
What I love most about Veal Parmesan is that it’s a delightful combination of tender veal, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It feels both indulgent and homey, and honestly, who can resist a dish that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside? Let me share with you how to bring this scrumptious classic to your table!
What’s in Veal Parmesan?
Veal Cutlets: The star of the show! Veal is exceptionally tender and has a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with marinara and cheese. Look for thin cutlets, which cook quickly and evenly.
Breadcrumbs: I like to use Italian-style breadcrumbs for an extra punch of flavor. They help create that perfect crispy layer once we fry the veal to golden perfection.
Eggs: They act as a binder, helping the breadcrumbs stick to the veal cutlets. I always use fresh eggs; they just make everything taste better!
Marinara Sauce: Home-made is best, but if you’re in a pinch, store-bought works too. A good marinara should be rich, slightly tangy, and full of flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor that elevates the dish. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort compared to the pre-grated stuff.
Fresh Mozzarella: My secret weapon! Melty, stringy mozzarella takes this dish to a whole new level. Always opt for fresh if possible; it really makes a difference!
Basil: Fresh basil adds a wonderful aromatic touch and is the perfect garnish for this dish. I always use it generously!
Is Veal Parmesan Good for You?
When you think comfort food, “healthy” may not be the first word that comes to mind, but let’s break it down a bit!
Veal: It’s a great source of protein, essential for muscle health, and it contains vital nutrients like B vitamins and zinc. However, like any meat, moderation is key.
Breadcrumbs: Whole-grain or gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used if you’re looking for healthier alternatives. Just be mindful of portions—those crispy bits, though delicious, can add up!
Marinara Sauce: If you make your own sauce, you can control the ingredients. Adding fresh veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms can boost the nutritional content without sacrificing flavor.
Cheese: While tasty, cheese can be high in saturated fats and sodium, so I recommend using it sparingly. A little goes a long way for flavor!
Ingredients
– 4 veal cutlets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Olive oil for frying
This recipe serves about 4 people – perfect for a family dinner or date night!
How to Make Veal Parmesan?
1. **Prepare the Veal:** Lightly pound the veal cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap until they are about ¼ inch thick. This helps tenderize them further, making each bite heavenly.
2. **Set Up Your Breading Station:** Place the beaten eggs in one shallow bowl and the breadcrumbs in another. Season the breadcrumbs with salt and pepper.
3. **Bread the Cutlets:** Dip each veal cutlet first into the beaten egg, letting the excess drip off, then into the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere the breadcrumbs. Set aside.
4. **Fry the Cutlets:** In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the breaded cutlets until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. We want them nice and crispy!
5. **Assemble the Dish:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Place the fried veal cutlets on top, then cover them with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and top with slices of fresh mozzarella.
6. **Bake:** Pop the dish in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. **Serve:** Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your delicious creation hot with a side of pasta or a fresh salad!
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Now that you’re a Veal Parmesan pro, let’s talk variations and ways to make it your own!
– **Chicken or Eggplant Parmesan:** If you’re not into veal, you can easily swap it out for chicken or even eggplant for a vegetarian version.
– **Spicy Kick:** Add some crushed red pepper flakes to your marinara sauce if you like a bit of heat.
– **Herbed Breadcrumbs:** Mix in some dried oregano or parsley to your breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
– **Serving Suggestions:** This dish pairs well with a crisp side salad or a plate of spaghetti. Don’t forget a nice glass of red wine; it’s always a great companion!
I hope you give this Veal Parmesan a try! It’s a dish full of love and flavor, and I can’t wait for you to share in the joy it brings. Cooking is a journey, so remember to embrace the process, enjoy the aromas, and most importantly, savor the delicious results! Let me know how it turns out, and happy cooking, my friend!