Strategies For Making A Veal Parmigiana Recipe

Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish typically made with eggplant, artichokes or other vegetables. Veal parmigiana is an American invention that began in New York. Today, veal Parmigiana is a favorite in many homes. It sounds hard to make and it does take a little time. However, once you get the hang of it, making this dish is easy.

Veal

Veal is meat from a very young calf no older than four-months-old. The meat has not had a chance to form fatty tissue to aid in flavor and tenderness. It is important not to overcook veal so it will not become tough. Different methods using veal in Parmigiana include cutlets, strips or chunks. Cutlets are the most common.

Depending on the amount of veal Parmigiana, you are making, purchase the appropriate amount of veal. For example, four servings call for four veal cutlets. Purchase cutlets, which have been cut very, thin.

Preparation

Saute onions and garlic in a skillet just until they are opaque. Add tomato paste, canned tomatoes, basil, salt and pepper. Simmer for approximately 30 minutes. Keep the sauce warm while you cook the cutlets.

Cooking and Baking

Lightly bread the veal with finely crushed breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, dredge the cutlets in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and then dredge through the breadcrumbs. This method holds the breadcrumbs on the meat better. Slowly add the veal to a skillet in heated oil. Lightly brown the veal on both sides. Prevent overcooking by cooking on medium heat. Arrange the cutlets on an ovenproof platter in a single layer. Layer slices or shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the cutlets. Pour the sauce over the cutlets and cheese. Add more mozzarella cheese to the top of the sauce. Place in a 350 degree F oven for approximately 30 minutes or until heated through and the cheese and sauce is bubbly. Do not burn the cheese on top.

Serve veal Parmigiana with a pasta salad and crusty bread. Freeze any remaining veal Parmigiana. Pasta salad can include cooked pasta, mushrooms, olives, onions, cheese and Italian dressing.

Tags: veal Parmigiana, amount veal, approximately minutes, cheese sauce, mozzarella cheese