Veal Milanese (Cotoletta alla Milanese)

When it comes to Italian cuisine, few dishes can evoke the same level of nostalgia and comfort as Veal Milanese, or Cotoletta alla Milanese. This iconic dish features tender veal chops, coated in crispy breadcrumbs and pan-fried to perfection. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch, making it an irresistible treat for any meat lover. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a little technique, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Veal Milanese recipe has been perfected over time, ensuring that you achieve a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender. By using clarified butter or ghee, you avoid the burning issues that can occur with regular butter at high temperatures. The combination of high-quality ingredients and straightforward techniques makes this recipe a go-to for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredient Rundown

• 4 veal chops (1.5 inch / 2 cm thick) – Look for fresh, high-quality veal for the best flavor and tenderness.
• 2 large eggs – These will act as the binder for the breadcrumbs, ensuring they adhere well to the veal.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture, or traditional Italian breadcrumbs for a more classic approach.
• 7 oz clarified butter (or ghee, or butter + 2 tablespoons peanut oil) – Clarified butter has a higher smoke point, making it ideal for frying.
• Sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the veal and enhancing its natural flavors.
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges – The perfect finishing touch, adding a bright, zesty flavor that balances the richness of the dish.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Frying pan – A large skillet is ideal for frying the veal chops evenly.
• Meat mallet – Use this to gently pound the veal chops to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
• Shallow dishes – For breading the veal, you’ll need separate dishes for the eggs and breadcrumbs.
• Spatula – A wide spatula helps flip the chops without damaging the crispy coating.
• Paper towels – These are essential for draining excess oil after frying.

Stepwise Method: Veal Milanese (Cotoletta alla Milanese)

Step 1: Prepare the Veal Chops

Start by placing the veal chops between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chops to about 1/2 inch thickness. This step not only tenderizes the meat but also helps it cook evenly.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In one shallow dish, whisk the two large eggs until well combined. In another dish, place the breadcrumbs and season them with sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper. This is where the magic happens, so make sure to coat your chops well.

Step 3: Bread the Veal Chops

Dip each veal chop first into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even, thick coating. Place the breaded chops on a plate and repeat with the remaining chops.

Step 4: Heat the Clarified Butter

In a large frying pan, heat the clarified butter over medium-high heat until it shimmers. You want it hot enough to fry the chops but not so hot that it smokes.

Step 5: Fry the Veal Chops

Carefully add the breaded veal chops to the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to gently flip the chops, being careful not to disturb the breadcrumb coating.

Step 6: Drain and Rest

Once the chops are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them rest for a couple of minutes to maintain the juiciness of the meat.

Step 7: Serve with Lemon Wedges

Serve the Veal Milanese immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the crispy veal adds a bright flavor that complements the richness of the dish beautifully.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Fresh Herbs: Consider adding finely chopped parsley or basil to the breadcrumbs for a fresh herbal note.
• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder in the breadcrumb mixture enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Parmesan Cheese: Mixing grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs adds a deliciously nutty flavor.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

• Breadcrumbs Not Sticking: If the breadcrumbs aren’t adhering to the meat, ensure the veal is adequately coated in the egg wash. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the meat.
• Greasy Chops: If the chops are greasy, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying, and drain them on paper towels after cooking.
• Overcooked Meat: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked veal.
• Burnt Breadcrumbs: If you notice the breadcrumbs browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to allow the meat to cook through without burning the coating.

Shelf Life & Storage

Veal Milanese is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the veal in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the breadcrumbs soggy.

Questions People Ask

Can I use chicken instead of veal?

Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with chicken cutlets. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Is Cotoletta alla Milanese served with any sides?

Traditionally, it can be served with a simple arugula salad, roasted potatoes, or even a light pasta dish for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can bread the veal chops ahead of time and refrigerate them. Fry them just before serving for maximum crispiness.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, crushed cornflakes, almond flour, or gluten-free breadcrumbs are excellent substitutes that will still give you a satisfying crunch.

Try These Next

• Chicken Parmesan – A classic Italian dish that’s always a hit.
• Pasta alla Norma – A rich and flavorful eggplant pasta dish.
• Eggplant Parmesan – A hearty vegetarian option that packs a punch.
• Risotto Milanese – A creamy, saffron-infused rice dish that pairs perfectly with veal.

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you have mastered the art of making Veal Milanese (Cotoletta alla Milanese), it’s time to gather your loved ones around the table. Serve this delightful dish with a simple salad or your favorite side, and watch as everyone savors each crispy, flavorful bite. Don’t forget the lemon wedges—they add the perfect touch of brightness that elevates the dish to new heights. Enjoy the process of cooking, and let the comforting aromas fill your kitchen. This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience to cherish and share.