Pork Schnitzel Lemon Butter: The Ultimate Crispy Recipe

Pork Schnitzel Lemon Butter: Just the name itself conjures up images of crispy, golden perfection, doesn’t it? I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, a dish that’s not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly simple to make at home. Forget those bland, dry schnitzels you might have encountered before; this version is juicy, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Schnitzel, in its various forms, has a rich history, particularly in Austria and Germany. While often associated with veal (Wiener Schnitzel), using pork offers a more budget-friendly and equally satisfying alternative. The technique of tenderizing and breading meat cutlets dates back centuries, evolving into the beloved dish we know today. The addition of a bright and tangy lemon butter sauce elevates the Pork Schnitzel Lemon Butter to a whole new level of culinary delight.

What’s not to love? The crispy, golden-brown breading provides a delightful textural contrast to the tender pork inside. The lemon butter sauce adds a burst of freshness and richness that perfectly complements the savory meat. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, making it suitable for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, with my easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be able to whip up this restaurant-quality Pork Schnitzel Lemon Butter in no time!

Ingredients:

• For the Pork Schnitzel:
• 4 boneless pork loin chops, about 1/2 inch thick
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional Garnishes:
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley sprigs

Preparing the Pork Schnitzel

1. Pound the Pork: Place each pork chop between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the pork to about 1/4 inch thickness. This tenderizes the meat and helps it cook evenly. Be careful not to pound too thin, or the schnitzel will become dry.
2. Set up the Breading Station: Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, add the beaten eggs. In the third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs.
3. Bread the Pork: Take one pounded pork chop and dredge it in the flour, making sure to coat both sides completely. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured pork chop into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, dredge the egg-coated pork chop in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs gently onto the pork to help them adhere. Repeat this process for all the pork chops.

Cooking the Pork Schnitzel

1. Heat the Oil: Pour about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of around 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil’s temperature by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil; if it sizzles and turns golden brown in about 30 seconds, the oil is ready.
2. Fry the Schnitzel: Carefully place the breaded pork chops into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the schnitzel is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C).
3. Drain the Schnitzel: Once the schnitzel is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help keep the schnitzel crispy.

Making the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Be careful not to burn the butter.
2. Add Garlic: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Add Lemon Juice and Parsley: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

Serving the Pork Schnitzel

1. Plate the Schnitzel: Place the cooked pork schnitzel on a serving plate.
2. Drizzle with Lemon Butter Sauce: Generously drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the schnitzel.
3. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley sprigs, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy! This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, spaetzle, or a simple green salad.

Tips for Perfect Pork Schnitzel

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many schnitzels at once will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy schnitzel. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Use Fresh Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a much crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to your liking.
• Keep Warm in the Oven: If you’re cooking in batches, you can keep the cooked schnitzel warm in a preheated oven at 200°F (95°C) until ready to serve.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the breaded pork chops ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out.

Variations

• Herb Crusted Schnitzel: Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
• Parmesan Schnitzel: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy twist.
• Spicy Schnitzel: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a little heat.
• Mushroom Sauce: Instead of lemon butter sauce, serve the schnitzel with a creamy mushroom sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment to pork schnitzel.
• Spaetzle: This German egg noodle dish is a perfect pairing.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the schnitzel.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots are delicious side dishes.
• Sauerkraut: For a traditional German meal, serve with sauerkraut.

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerating: Store leftover pork schnitzel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake the schnitzel in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, but be careful not to burn it. Reheating in the microwave is not recommended, as it can make the schnitzel soggy.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

• Calories: 600-700
• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g

This recipe is a family favorite, and I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! The combination of the crispy schnitzel and the tangy lemon butter sauce is simply irresistible. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and side dishes to create your own perfect meal. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Pork Schnitzel with Lemon Butter is truly a dish you need to experience. It’s not just a meal; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. The crispy, golden-brown schnitzel, perfectly tender on the inside, combined with the bright, zesty, and utterly decadent lemon butter sauce, is a match made in culinary heaven. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why I’m so enthusiastic!

But why is this recipe a must-try? Beyond the incredible taste, it’s surprisingly simple to make. We’ve broken down each step to ensure even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results. It’s also incredibly versatile. While the classic lemon butter sauce is divine, feel free to experiment!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Pairing: Serve your Pork Schnitzel with Lemon Butter alongside creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting and satisfying meal. The richness of the potatoes complements the tang of the lemon butter beautifully.
* German Flair: Embrace the schnitzel’s German roots by serving it with spaetzle (German egg noodles) and a side of sauerkraut. This combination offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
* Light and Fresh: For a lighter option, pair the schnitzel with a vibrant salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad will cut through the richness of the dish.
* Lemon Butter Variations: Get creative with your lemon butter! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or incorporate some fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for added depth of flavor. A squeeze of orange juice can also brighten the sauce. Capers are another great addition for a salty, briny kick.
* Schnitzel Sandwich: Transform your leftover schnitzel into a delicious sandwich! Place it on a crusty roll with lettuce, tomato, and a smear of Dijon mustard or mayonnaise.
* Mushroom Sauce: If you’re not a fan of lemon butter (though I highly recommend trying it!), a creamy mushroom sauce is another fantastic option. Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic and shallots, then deglaze the pan with white wine and add cream.

I’m confident that this Pork Schnitzel Lemon Butter recipe will become a new favorite in your household. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The crispy schnitzel and luscious lemon butter sauce are guaranteed to impress your family and friends.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of perfectly cooked pork schnitzel bathed in a bright and flavorful lemon butter sauce.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments below. I can’t wait to see your culinary creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to help. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Pork Schnitzel!

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