Veal cutlets are a delicious and versatile protein that can be cooked in a variety of ways. While breaded veal cutlets are a classic preparation, they can be high in calories and carbs.
If you’re looking for a healthier and simpler way to cook veal cutlets, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll show you how to cook veal cutlets without breading, using a variety of techniques and flavor combinations.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, these tips and tricks will help you create delicious and nutritious veal dishes that your whole family will love.
So let’s get started!
How To Cook Veal Cutlets Without Breading?
There are several ways to cook veal cutlets without breading, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Here are some of our favorite methods:
1. Pan-Seared Veal Cutlets: This is a simple and quick way to cook veal cutlets without breading. Start by seasoning the cutlets with salt and pepper, then sear them in a hot skillet with a little bit of oil or butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the cutlets rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Veal Piccata: This classic Italian dish is made with thinly sliced veal cutlets that are sautéed in a lemon-butter sauce with capers and parsley. To make it, season the cutlets with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour. Sauté them in a hot skillet with butter until golden brown, then remove them from the pan and make the sauce by adding white wine, lemon juice, capers, and parsley to the pan. Simmer until thickened, then add the veal back to the pan to coat in the sauce.
3. Veal Scallopini: This dish is similar to veal piccata but is made with a creamy mushroom sauce instead of a lemon-butter sauce. To make it, season the cutlets with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour. Sauté them in a hot skillet with butter until golden brown, then remove them from the pan and make the sauce by adding sliced mushrooms, garlic, and chicken broth to the pan. Simmer until thickened, then add cream and Parmesan cheese to make a creamy sauce. Add the veal back to the pan to coat in the sauce.
4. Grilled Veal Cutlets: Grilling is another great way to cook veal cutlets without breading. Season the cutlets with salt and pepper, then grill them over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Serve with your favorite grilled vegetables or a simple salad.
Why Cook Veal Cutlets Without Breading?
Cooking veal cutlets without breading has several benefits. Firstly, it is a healthier option as it reduces the amount of oil and calories used in the cooking process. Secondly, it allows the natural flavors of the meat to shine through, without being masked by the breading. Additionally, cooking veal cutlets without breading is a quicker and easier process, making it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Pan-searing veal cutlets is a great way to achieve a crispy exterior without the need for breading. The high heat of the skillet creates a caramelized crust on the surface of the meat, while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Veal piccata and veal scallopini are two classic dishes that are traditionally made without breading. These dishes rely on flavorful sauces to enhance the taste of the veal, rather than relying on breading for texture and flavor. Finally, grilling veal cutlets without breading is a great way to add smoky charred flavors to the meat while keeping it healthy and delicious.
Preparing Veal Cutlets For Cooking
Before cooking veal cutlets, it is important to prepare them properly to ensure they cook evenly and retain their natural flavor. Here are some tips for preparing veal cutlets for cooking:
1. Remove the Veal Cutlets from Packaging: Take the veal cutlets out of their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. This will remove any excess moisture and help the seasoning stick to the meat.
2. Bring the Veal Cutlets to Room Temperature: Allow the veal cutlets to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help them cook more evenly and prevent them from becoming tough.
3. Season the Veal Cutlets: Season the veal cutlets with salt and pepper on both sides, or use your favorite seasoning blend. Be sure to season them just before cooking to prevent the salt from drawing out moisture from the meat.
4. Heat Your Cooking Surface: Preheat your skillet, griddle, or grill until it is hot enough that a drop of oil sizzles when added.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Cooking Surface: Cook the veal cutlets in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the cooking surface. This will ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
By following these simple steps, you can prepare your veal cutlets for cooking without breading and enjoy their natural flavor and tenderness.
Pan-Seared Veal Cutlets
Pan-seared veal cutlets are a quick and easy way to cook veal without breading. To start, use the flat side of a meat tenderizer to pound the cutlets to 1/8-inch thickness, which helps to tenderize the meat and create a uniform thickness for even cooking. Then, season the cutlets with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat a skillet with a little bit of oil or butter until it shimmers. Cook the veal cutlets in one layer, working in batches if necessary, for about 2-3 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Transfer the cooked cutlets to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm while cooking the remaining cutlets.
To make a pan sauce, reduce the heat and add butter and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant, then add white wine, bone broth, and lemon juice. Deglaze the pan by scraping up any cooked bits from the pan up into the sauce. Add capers and bring the sauce to a boil, then simmer until thickened. Stir in more butter and adjust salt and pepper if necessary.
Finally, add the cooked veal back into the pan and coat it in the sauce. Let it warm through before arranging the cutlets on plates or a platter. Pour any remaining sauce over the cutlets and serve immediately.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious pan-seared veal cutlets without breading in no time!
Grilled Veal Cutlets
Grilled veal cutlets are a delicious and healthy way to cook veal without breading. To make them, start by rubbing the cutlets with olive oil and letting them rest for 10 minutes. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the cutlets for 1.5 minutes on each side. Once cooked, let the meat rest for a few minutes on a warm plate, covered with cellophane. Sprinkle with salt and pepper before cutting.
To make a tasty side dish to go with your grilled veal cutlets, clean and halve some tomatoes and fry them in olive oil. Add garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs last for added flavor. Boil some ravioli for 3 minutes in salted water and divide the tomatoes and ravioli between four warm plates. Slice the cutlets in half with a sharp knife and put them on the plates. Sprinkle with lime zest and parmesan cheese, then add some lime juice and olive oil for a tangy finish.
Grilled veal cutlets are perfect for a summer barbecue or any time you want a healthy and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. Try experimenting with different marinades or toppings to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Oven-Roasted Veal Cutlets
Oven-roasting is a healthy and easy way to cook veal cutlets without breading. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. Season the cutlets with salt and pepper, then place them on the baking sheet. Drizzle a little bit of olive oil over each cutlet to keep them moist and juicy. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning the cutlets over halfway through, until they are nicely browned and fully cooked. You can also add some sliced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the baking sheet for a complete meal. Once the cutlets are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This method produces tender and flavorful veal cutlets that are perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
Flavorful Seasonings And Sauces For Veal Cutlets
When it comes to seasoning and saucing veal cutlets, there are endless possibilities. Here are some flavorful options to consider:
1. Lemon and Capers: This classic combination is a favorite for a reason. Sauté veal cutlets in butter until golden brown, then add white wine, lemon juice, and capers to the pan. Simmer until the sauce is thickened and the flavors have melded together.
2. Mushroom Cream Sauce: For a rich and indulgent sauce, sauté sliced mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender. Add chicken broth and simmer until reduced, then add cream and Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish.
3. Arugula and Lemon: For a fresh and light option, serve veal cutlets over a bed of arugula that has been dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. The heat from the veal will gently wilt the leaves and create a deliciously simple sauce.
4. Tomato Basil Sauce: This classic Italian sauce is perfect for topping veal cutlets. Sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add canned tomatoes and simmer until thickened. Stir in fresh basil and adjust the seasoning as needed.
No matter what seasoning or sauce you choose, be sure to season the veal cutlets with salt and pepper before cooking to ensure they are flavorful and delicious.