Milanesa

Authentic Milanesa Recipe from Uruguay - Beef Cutlet with Eggs, Flour, and Bread Crumbs

Region / culture: Uruguay | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Milanesa is a popular dish that originated in Argentina, but is also enjoyed in other Latin American countries. It consists of thinly sliced meat, typically beef, that is breaded and fried until crispy. This dish is a favorite among many for its delicious flavor and crunchy texture.

History

The origins of Milanesa can be traced back to Italian immigrants who settled in Argentina in the 19th century. They brought with them the tradition of preparing breaded and fried meat, which eventually evolved into the dish we know today as Milanesa. Over time, this dish became a staple in Argentine cuisine and spread to other countries in Latin America.

Ingredients

thinly cut round steak (teriyaki steak can be used as a substitute)
flour
beaten eggs
bread crumbs

How to prepare

Roll each steak in flour, then dip it in beaten eggs, and roll it again in bread crumbs (the best choice is the "Italian seasoning" style of crumbs in the U.S.).
For better results, refrigerate the steaks for at least one hour.
Deep fry the steaks in hot oil or shortening. Serve them warm or enjoy them cold the next day in a sandwich with tomato and lettuce.

Variations

Use chicken or pork instead of beef for a different flavor.
Add grated Parmesan cheese to the bread crumbs for extra flavor.
Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice or a dollop of marinara sauce for a tangy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pound the meat thinly to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.

- Refrigerating the breaded steaks before frying helps the breading adhere better to the meat.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steaks are cooked to the desired level of doneness.

Serving Suggestions

Milanesa is typically served with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad. It can also be enjoyed in a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure to fry the steaks in hot oil to achieve a crispy crust.

- Use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed skillet for best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

Panko breadcrumbs can be used instead of regular breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier coating.

- Cornstarch can be used instead of flour for a gluten-free version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can bread the steaks ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to fry.

- Cooked Milanesa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Milanesa on a platter with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Milanesa pairs well with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- A side of chimichurri sauce or salsa verde complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Milanesa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Milanesa can contain around 300-400 calories, depending on the size of the steak and the amount of breading used.

Carbohydrates

Milanesa is a relatively high-carbohydrate dish due to the breading used in the recipe. Each serving typically contains around 20-30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Milanesa is a fried dish, so it is higher in fats compared to other cooking methods. Each serving can contain around 15-20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Milanesa is a good source of protein, with each serving containing around 25-30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Milanesa is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, but it does provide some iron and zinc from the beef.

Alergens

Milanesa contains wheat (from the flour and bread crumbs) and eggs, which are common allergens.

Summary

Milanesa is a tasty dish that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides a good amount of protein. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Milanesa is a delicious and satisfying dish that is easy to prepare and versatile in its presentation. Whether enjoyed as a main course or in a sandwich, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Milanesa. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in Argentina. Maria was an incredible cook and always had the most delicious meals waiting for me whenever I came to visit.

On this particular day, Maria invited me into her kitchen to help her prepare dinner. She told me she was going to make Milanesa, a popular dish in Argentina that is similar to schnitzel. I had never heard of Milanesa before, but I was eager to learn how to make it.

Maria began by showing me how to pound the thinly sliced beef cutlets until they were nice and tender. She then dipped them in flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs before frying them in a hot skillet. The aroma of the sizzling meat filled the kitchen, and my mouth watered in anticipation.

As we sat down to eat our meal, Maria explained to me that Milanesa was a dish that originated in Italy but had become a beloved staple in Argentina. She shared with me that her own mother had taught her how to make Milanesa when she was just a young girl, and it had since become a family favorite.

I was so impressed by the flavors of the dish that I asked Maria to share her recipe with me. She gladly wrote it down for me on a scrap of paper, and I tucked it away in my recipe box to try it out myself when I returned home.

Over the years, I have made Maria's Milanesa recipe countless times for my family and friends. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of that special day in Maria's kitchen and the warmth and hospitality she showed me.

As I continued to cook and experiment with different recipes over the years, I found that Milanesa was a dish that always brought people together. Whether I was cooking for a large family gathering or just a cozy dinner for two, Milanesa never failed to impress.

I also discovered that there were many variations of the dish depending on the region or family traditions. Some people liked to add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dollop of marinara sauce on top, while others preferred to keep it simple with just a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

One of my favorite memories of making Milanesa was when my granddaughter, Emily, asked me to teach her how to make it. I was thrilled to pass down this cherished recipe to the next generation and watch as she carefully followed each step, just as I had done with Maria all those years ago.

As Emily grew older, she began to put her own spin on the recipe, adding her own unique flavors and ingredients to create a Milanesa that was all her own. I smiled with pride as I watched her confidently cook in the kitchen, knowing that she had inherited my love for cooking and sharing recipes with others.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on the many years I have spent cooking and sharing recipes with those I love, I am grateful for the simple yet profound joy that food has brought to my life. And every time I make Milanesa, I am reminded of the special bond I share with Maria, my dear friend who introduced me to this delicious dish and inspired me to keep creating and sharing recipes with others.

In the end, it's not just about the food itself but the memories and connections it creates along the way. And for that, I am forever grateful.