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Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel: A Healthier Twist on a Classic Dish

Schnitzel is a beloved dish that originated in Austria but has made its way into the hearts and kitchens of many around the world. Traditionally made from thin slices of meat, breaded and fried until golden and crispy, schnitzels are often deemed a comfort food staple. However, with the rise of healthier cooking alternatives, air fryers have emerged as a popular appliance, allowing home cooks to enjoy this classic dish with significantly less oil. In this article, we’ll explore how to prepare a delicious air fryer pork schnitzel that is both satisfying and healthier than its deep-fried counterpart.

Ingredients

To make air fryer pork schnitzel, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless pork loin chops (about 150-200g each)
• 1 cup plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Olive oil spray
• Lemon wedges, to serve
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation

1. Tenderise the Pork:
   Begin by placing the pork loin chops between two sheets of cling film. Using a meat mallet or a rolling pin, gently pound the pork until it’s approximately 1 cm thick. This not only helps tenderise the meat but also ensures an even cook.

2. Set Up the Breading Station:
   Prepare three shallow dishes for the breading process. In the first dish, place the plain flour seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In the second dish, beat the eggs thoroughly. In the third dish, add the breadcrumbs.

3. Coat the Pork:
   Dredge each piece of pork in the flour mixture, ensuring it is coated evenly. Shake off any excess flour before dipping it into the beaten eggs, allowing any surplus to drip off. Finally, coat the pork in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere well. Repeat for each piece of pork.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F) for around 5 minutes. This step ensures that the schnitzels cook evenly and helps achieve that desired crispiness.

5. Cook the Schnitzels:
   Once the air fryer is preheated, lightly spray the basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded pork schnitzels in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the schnitzels with olive oil to help them crisp up even more.

   Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until the schnitzels are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 70°C (about 160°F).

6. Serve:
   Once cooked, carefully remove the schnitzels from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve your air fryer pork schnitzel with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of parsley, and your choice of sides—wedge fries, a crisp salad, or traditional German potato salad are all excellent options.

Conclusion

Air fryer pork schnitzel is a brilliant way to enjoy a classic dish without the guilt of deep frying. The result is a beautifully crisp exterior, while the interior remains tender and juicy. This healthier approach means you can indulge in schnitzel more often, making it a convenient and delicious dinner option. Whether served for a casual family meal or at a dinner party, air fryer pork schnitzel is sure to impress. Enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones and savour the taste of home-cooked goodness.

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