Veal Parmigiana Recipe: A Culinary Journey to Italian Excellence

Welcome to Hoppy, your culinary haven for authentic Italian recipes. Today, we embark on a delectable journey with our Veal Parmigiana Recipe, a classic dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with tender veal cutlets, enveloped in a crispy breadcrumb crust, smothered in a rich tomato sauce, and crowned with melted mozzarella cheese. This symphony of flavors and textures will transport you to the heart of Italy. Join us as we guide you through each step of this culinary masterpiece, ensuring a successful and delicious outcome.

Ingredient	Quantity
Veal cutlets	4 (4 ounces each)
All-purpose flour	1/2 cup
Eggs	2, beaten
Breadcrumbs	1 cup
Parmesan cheese	1/2 cup, grated
Olive oil	1/4 cup
Tomato sauce	2 cups
Mozzarella cheese	1 cup, shredded
Fresh basil	1/4 cup, chopped

I. Ingredients

The foundation of a delectable Veal Parmigiana lies in selecting the finest ingredients. Begin with tender veal cutlets, approximately 4 ounces each, ensuring they are of high quality and evenly sliced. For the breading, you will need all-purpose flour, beaten eggs, and a flavorful combination of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Olive oil is essential for achieving that golden-brown crust, while tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil complete the symphony of flavors.

To elevate your Veal Parmigiana, consider using homemade tomato sauce. Simmer fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and Italian herbs in a rich tomato sauce for an authentic Italian experience. If time is of the essence, a high-quality store-bought tomato sauce can suffice. For the mozzarella cheese, opt for fresh, high-quality mozzarella that melts beautifully, creating a gooey, irresistible layer.

Ingredient	Quantity
Veal cutlets	4 (4 ounces each)
All-purpose flour	1/2 cup
Eggs	2, beaten
Breadcrumbs	1 cup
Parmesan cheese	1/2 cup, grated
Olive oil	1/4 cup
Tomato sauce	2 cups
Mozzarella cheese	1 cup, shredded
Fresh basil	1/4 cup, chopped

II. Equipment

To ensure a seamless cooking experience, gather the necessary equipment. A large skillet or frying pan is essential for searing the veal cutlets and creating that crispy crust. A baking dish, approximately 9×13 inches, will accommodate the layered Veal Parmigiana. Additionally, you will need a shallow dish for dredging the veal cutlets in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. A cheese grater is handy for preparing the Parmesan cheese, and a sharp knife is crucial for slicing the veal cutlets and chopping the fresh basil.

III. Instructions

Prepare the Veal Cutlets

Select 4 veal cutlets that are about 4 ounces each, ensuring their thickness is uniform. Using a sharp knife, slice a pocket into each cutlet, creating a cavity for the stuffing.

Make the Stuffing and Dredge the Veal

In a shallow dish, combine 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour.
In a separate bowl, whisk 2 eggs.
Spread 1 cup of bread crumbs on a flat surface.
Mix 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, and salt and pepper to taste.
Stuff each veal cutlet with the prepared stuffing mixture.
Dredge the stuffed veal cutlets in the flour, then the eggs, and then the bread crumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated.

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Cook the Veal Cutlets

Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Once the oil is shimmering, gently place the veal cutlets in the skillet.
Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until the crust is golden brown.
Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the veal is cooked through.

Make the Tomato Sauce

While the veal cutlets are cooking, prepare the tomato sauce.

In a separate saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add one chopped onion and cook until softened.
Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Pour in 2 cups of tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste.
Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

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Assemble and Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Pour half of the prepared tomato sauce into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Place the cooked veal cutlets in the baking dish.
Top the veal cutlets with the remaining tomato sauce.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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Garnish and Serve

Take the baking dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Serve immediately with a side of pasta, mashed potatoes, or your favorite vegetables.

IV. Tips

Use High-Quality Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the final dish. Choose high-quality veal cutlets that are evenly thick and free of any blemishes. Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the sauce, and select a flavorful Parmesan cheese.

Tenderize the Veal Cutlets

To ensure tender veal cutlets, pound them lightly with a meat mallet or rolling pin before coating them in the breadcrumb mixture. This will help break down the fibers and make the meat more tender.

Create a Flavorful Breadcrumb Coating

The breadcrumb coating is an essential component of Veal Parmigiana. Use a combination of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs to create a flavorful and crispy crust.

Cook the Veal Cutlets Properly

Cook the veal cutlets in a hot skillet with olive oil until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Be careful not to overcook the cutlets, as they will become tough.

Make a Rich Tomato Sauce

The tomato sauce is another key component of Veal Parmigiana. Use a combination of fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and Italian herbs to create a rich and flavorful sauce.

Use Fresh Mozzarella Cheese

Fresh mozzarella cheese is the best choice for Veal Parmigiana. It melts beautifully and has a delicate flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Broil the Veal Parmigiana

After assembling the Veal Parmigiana, broil it in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This will give the dish a golden brown crust and help to keep the cheese from becoming rubbery.

Serve with Spaghetti or Pasta

Veal Parmigiana is traditionally served with spaghetti or pasta. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad.

Tip	Description
Use high-quality ingredients	Choose fresh, ripe tomatoes, flavorful Parmesan cheese, and evenly thick veal cutlets.
Tenderize the veal cutlets	Pound the cutlets lightly with a meat mallet or rolling pin to break down the fibers and make them more tender.
Create a flavorful breadcrumb coating	Use a combination of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs for a crispy and flavorful crust.
Cook the veal cutlets properly	Cook the cutlets in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden brown and crispy on both sides, avoiding overcooking to prevent toughness.
Make a rich tomato sauce	Use fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and Italian herbs to create a flavorful and rich sauce.
Use fresh mozzarella cheese	Fresh mozzarella cheese melts beautifully and has a delicate flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Broil the Veal Parmigiana	Broil the assembled dish in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, giving it a golden brown crust and preventing the cheese from becoming rubbery.
Serve with spaghetti or pasta	Traditionally served with spaghetti or pasta, Veal Parmigiana can also be accompanied by roasted vegetables or a salad.

V. Variations

Unleash your creativity and explore a world of variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the veal cutlets with grilled portobello mushrooms or hearty eggplant slices. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using chicken or turkey cutlets instead of veal. Experiment with different types of cheese to add unique flavors; try sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, or tangy goat cheese. For a crispy and flavorful crust, try using a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

For a unique twist, try using a flavorful tomato sauce made with roasted tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a touch of chili flakes. If you prefer a creamy sauce, consider using a béchamel sauce or a combination of béchamel and tomato sauce. For a healthier option, use whole-wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs and opt for low-fat cheese. You can also add a layer of sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables to the dish for an extra boost of nutrition.

Variation	Description
Vegetarian Veal Parmigiana	Substitute veal cutlets with grilled portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices.
Chicken or Turkey Parmigiana	Use chicken or turkey cutlets instead of veal.
Cheese Variations	Experiment with different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, or tangy goat cheese.
Crispy Crust	Use a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for a crispy crust.
Roasted Tomato Sauce	Make a flavorful tomato sauce with roasted tomatoes, fresh herbs, and chili flakes.
Béchamel Sauce	Use a béchamel sauce or a combination of béchamel and tomato sauce for a creamy sauce.
Healthy Options	Use whole-wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs and low-fat cheese. Add sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for extra nutrition.

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VI. Serving Suggestions

Indulge in the classic Italian experience by serving Veal Parmigiana with a side of spaghetti or linguine, tossed in a simple tomato sauce or a flavorful pesto. For a heartier meal, pair it with roasted vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or eggplant. A side of garlic bread or a crusty Italian roll will perfectly soak up the delicious sauce.

For a more elegant presentation, serve Veal Parmigiana with a side of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the polenta or potatoes will complement the crispy crust and rich flavors of the veal. You can also add a side of sautéed mushrooms or grilled asparagus for an extra touch of sophistication.

Side Dish	Description
Spaghetti or Linguine	Classic Italian pasta dishes that pair well with the rich flavors of Veal Parmigiana.
Roasted Vegetables	Healthy and flavorful side dish that adds color and texture to the meal.
Garlic Bread or Crusty Italian Roll	Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Polenta or Mashed Potatoes	Creamy and comforting side dishes that complement the crispy crust and rich flavors of the veal.
Sautéed Mushrooms or Grilled Asparagus	Elegant and flavorful side dishes that add a touch of sophistication to the meal.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Veal Parmigiana is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Its combination of crispy crust, tender veal, and flavorful sauce makes it a timeless classic that will satisfy even the most discerning palate.

Here are some additional serving suggestions for Veal Parmigiana:

Serve it as an appetizer or main course.
Cut it into smaller pieces for a party or buffet.
Top it with a dollop of ricotta cheese or fresh mozzarella for an extra creamy touch.
Garnish it with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve it with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or Alfredo sauce.

With its versatility and delicious flavor, Veal Parmigiana is a dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Experiment with different serving suggestions to find your favorite way to savor this classic Italian dish.

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VII. Conclusion

As you conclude your culinary adventure with Veal Parmigiana, savor the moment and reflect upon the flavors that have tantalized your taste buds. This classic Italian dish, with its crispy crust, flavorful tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, we hope our detailed recipe has guided you towards success. Remember, cooking is a journey of exploration and experimentation. Embrace the process, learn from your experiences, and continue to create delectable dishes that bring joy to your table. So, gather your loved ones, share the warmth of this timeless recipe, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Do Ngan

15 8 minutes read