Wiener schnitzel plate

Plate of Wiener schnitzel, a classic Austrian dish made of breaded and fried veal.

About this subject

Wiener schnitzel is an iconic Austrian dish, celebrated globally as a hallmark of Viennese cuisine. It consists of a thin slice of veal (or sometimes pork, known as Schnitzel Wiener Art) that is breaded with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, then fried in fat or oil until golden brown. The tradition requires the meat to be pounded until very thin before preparation. The dish's origin is debated, but the modern recipe was documented in the 19th century in Austria. A notable fact: the term "Wiener" refers to Vienna, and the dish is protected by law in Austria, which mandates that the authentic Wiener schnitzel must be made exclusively from veal.

Classic accompaniments include lemon wedges and often potato salad or cucumber salad. It is also commonly served with cranberry sauce (Preiselbeeren) to contrast the fried flavor. Although a simple dish, its execution requires skill to achieve a crispy crust and tender meat. In traditional Viennese restaurants like Figlmüller, the Wiener schnitzel is served in a large size, extending beyond the plate's edges.

Beyond Austria, the dish is popular in Germany, Switzerland, and parts of Central Europe. In Germany, the pork version is more common and often simply called Schnitzel. Wiener schnitzel has also influenced similar dishes in other cultures, such as cotoletta alla milanese in Italy and tonkatsu in Japan. The main difference lies in the meat type and thickness: the Italian version includes the bone, while the Japanese version is served with sauce.

Nutritionally, Wiener schnitzel is a high-calorie dish due to frying. Nevertheless, it is enjoyed as comfort food on cold days. In Austria, it is frequently consumed on Sundays or special occasions. For those seeking the original version, the veal must be certified, and restaurants serving the authentic preparation display the "Original Wiener Schnitzel" seal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Wiener schnitzel and common schnitzel?

Authentic Wiener schnitzel is made exclusively with veal, while common schnitzel can be pork or chicken. The tradition also requires the meat to be very thin and fried in fat.

Is Wiener schnitzel served with sauce?

Traditionally, no sauce is poured over Wiener schnitzel to keep the crust crispy. Common sides include lemon, potato salad, and cranberry sauce.

Is Wiener schnitzel originally from Austria?

Yes, the dish originates from Vienna, Austria, and since 1969 it has been protected by Austrian law that defines the authentic recipe using veal.