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Air Fryer Schnitzel: A Modern Twist on a Classic Dish

Schnitzel, a beloved dish that hails from Central Europe, particularly Austria, has found its way into kitchens around the world. Traditionally, this dish consists of a pounded and breaded cutlet, most often made from pork or veal, and is usually pan-fried until golden and crispy. While this classic method produces a delectable result, the advent of the air fryer has opened up new avenues for preparing schnitzel, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavour or texture.

What is an Air Fryer?

Before we delve into the recipe, let’s recap what an air fryer does. An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it, mimicking the results of deep frying but with significantly less oil. This method not only cuts calories but also reduces overall cooking time.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Schnitzel

To make your very own air fryer schnitzel, you will need:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts (or pork/veal, depending on your preference)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• Optional: garlic powder, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs for added flavour
• Olive oil or cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preparation of the Meat:
   Begin by placing the chicken breasts between two pieces of cling film and pound them using a meat mallet until they are about 1/2 inch thick. This step not only helps in tenderising the meat but also ensures even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Breading Station:
   Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the plain flour. In the second, beat the eggs. In the third, combine the breadcrumbs with any optional seasonings you desire.

3. Coating the Schnitzel:
   Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. Press down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well to the meat.

4. Preheating the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 390°F) for about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown perfection.

5. Cooking the Schnitzel:
   Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the schnitzels in a single layer, ensuring they do not overcrowd the basket. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 75°C / 165°F).

6. Serving:
   Once cooked, allow the schnitzels to rest for a few minutes before serving. They can be paired with traditional sides such as potato salad, chunky chips, or a fresh green salad. For authenticity, a wedge of lemon can be served on the side to sprinkle over the schnitzel just before eating.

Advantages of Air Fryer Schnitzel

The primary advantage of making schnitzel in an air fryer is the reduction in oil used, which significantly lowers the calorie count and fat content without compromising on that essential crunch. Additionally, the air fryer eliminates the mess associated with frying, as there’s no hot oil to deal with.

Conclusion

Air fryer schnitzel is a delightful adaptation of a classic favourite, combining the comforting flavours of traditional schnitzel with the health-conscious benefits of modern cooking methods. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress family and friends, this air-fried version is sure to satisfy everyone’s appetites while keeping things light and crispy. So fire up your air fryer, and enjoy a hearty serving of schnitzel today!

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