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Delightful Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel: A Crispy Treat from The Schmidty Wife

If you’re on the lookout for a quick, delicious, and somewhat healthier alternative to traditional fried dishes, look no further than Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel. This delightful recipe, inspired by The Schmidty Wife, promises a crispy exterior and succulent interior, all while cutting down on excess oil. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this schnitzel will leave your family asking for seconds!

The Origins of Schnitzel

Schnitzel, traditionally an Austrian dish, has become beloved across various cultures, especially in Germany and Switzerland. This dish typically features breaded meat, usually pork, which is then fried until golden and crisp. While the classic cooking method involves deep frying, using an air fryer not only simplifies the process but also significantly reduces the amount of oil used.

Ingredients

To create delicious Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 pork chops (or pork loin cutlets)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Cooking spray or a light drizzle of oil
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Start by pounding the pork chops to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch, to ensure they cook uniformly. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. You can use a meat mallet or even a rolling pin, wrapped in plastic wrap for a mess-free experience.

2. Set Up Your Dredging Station: In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour in the first, whisk the eggs in the second, and finally, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika in the third.

3. Coat the Pork: Dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any surplus to drip off. Finally, coat the pork with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick well.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.

5. Air Fry the Schnitzels: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, or brush it with a little oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded pork schnitzels in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

6. Cooking Time: Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the pork should reach at least 63°C (145°F) for safety.

7. Serve: Once cooked, remove the schnitzels from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions

Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

• A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad
• Creamy mashed potatoes or potato salad
• A zesty coleslaw for crunch

You can also drizzle some homemade gravy or serve it with a rich mushroom sauce for an extra indulgent experience.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel recipe from The Schmidty Wife brings the comforting flavours of a classic dish into a healthier format, making it accessible for any home cook looking to impress. It’s crispy, satisfying, and bursting with flavour, promising to become a firm favourite in your household. So, fire up the air fryer, and enjoy a taste of culinary tradition with a modern twist!