Belgian Veal Cutlets. Recipe

Belgian cuisine is known for its hearty and delicious dishes, and one such classic is the Belgian Veal Cutlets. This dish showcases tender veal cutlets, breaded and fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth interior. It is typically served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and a tangy sauce, creating a harmonious combination of flavors.

The origins of this recipe can be traced back to Belgium, where veal is a popular meat choice. Veal is known for its delicate flavor and tender texture, making it an excellent choice for cutlets. Belgian Veal Cutlets are often enjoyed as a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions.

Fun fact: In Belgium, this dish is often served with a traditional side dish called "stoemp." Stoemp is a mixture of mashed potatoes and vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or leeks. It adds a vibrant and nutritious element to the meal.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for Belgian Veal Cutlets:

Ingredients:
- 4 veal cutlets, approximately 6 oz each
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Vegetable oil, for frying

For the mashed potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and boiled until soft
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the sauce:
- 1 cup beef or veal stock
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Take the boiled potatoes and drain them well. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a pint of the mashed potatoes and transfer it to a mixing bowl. Add melted butter and one egg. Mix well until the ingredients are combined.

3. Gradually add flour to the potato mixture until it forms a dough-like consistency. You may need more or less flour depending on the moisture of the potatoes. Form the dough into small balls and set them on a well-buttered baking pan.

4. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the potato balls. Bake them in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

5. Meanwhile, prepare the veal cutlets. Season each veal cutlet with salt and pepper on both sides.

6. Set up a breading station by placing the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls.

7. Dredge each veal cutlet in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip them into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat the cutlets in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

8. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded veal cutlets for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they become golden brown and crispy. Remove the cutlets from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.

9. In the same skillet, prepare the sauce. Melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually pour in the beef or veal stock while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until it thickens. Stir in Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.

10. To serve, plate the veal cutlets alongside the baked potato balls. Drizzle the sauce over the cutlets or serve it on the side. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for an added touch of freshness.

Belgian Veal Cutlets are best enjoyed hot, so serve them immediately and savor the fantastic combination of flavors and textures. The crispy breaded exterior gives way to the tender and juicy veal, while the creamy mashed potato balls and tangy sauce complement each bite perfectly.

If you're looking for similar dishes to explore Belgium's culinary delights, here are a few recommendations:

1. Waterzooi: A traditional Belgian stew made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and a creamy broth. It is often served with crusty bread.

2. Moules Frites: A classic Belgian dish consisting of steamed mussels cooked in a flavorful broth and served with crispy fries.

3. Carbonade Flamande: Also known as Flemish stew, this hearty dish features beef slow-cooked in beer and served with buttery mashed potatoes.

4. Waffles: Belgian waffles are a beloved treat worldwide. Whether you prefer them with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fruit toppings, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

5. Speculoos: These spiced cookies, often enjoyed with coffee or tea, are a quintessential Belgian treat, known for their unique flavor and crisp texture.

Exploring the diverse and delicious cuisine of Belgium is a delightful way to indulge in the country's rich culinary heritage. From comforting stews to mouthwatering sweets, there is always something delicious to discover.

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