Veal parmesan, a classic Italian-American dish, has been a staple in many restaurants and households for decades. The combination of tender veal, crispy breading, and rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, is a match made in heaven. However, cooking veal parmesan to perfection can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to determining the right cooking time in the oven. In this article, we will delve into the world of veal parmesan and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to cook it to perfection in the oven.
Understanding Veal Parmesan
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what veal parmesan is and what makes it so special. Veal parmesan is a dish that consists of thinly sliced veal cutlets, breaded and fried, and then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The veal cutlets are typically made from the loin or rib section of the veal, which is known for its tenderness and delicate flavor.
The Importance of Breading
The breading process is a crucial step in making veal parmesan. The breading helps to create a crispy exterior, which provides a nice textural contrast to the tender veal. The breading also helps to keep the veal moist and flavorful. To achieve the perfect breading, it’s essential to use the right type of breadcrumbs and to bread the veal cutlets correctly.
Types of Breadcrumbs
There are several types of breadcrumbs that you can use for veal parmesan, including:
- Panko breadcrumbs: These are light and airy breadcrumbs that provide a crispy texture.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs: These are seasoned breadcrumbs that add a lot of flavor to the veal.
- Homemade breadcrumbs: You can also make your own breadcrumbs by blending stale bread into fine crumbs.
Cooking Veal Parmesan in the Oven
Now that we have covered the basics of veal parmesan, let’s move on to the cooking process. Cooking veal parmesan in the oven is a great way to achieve a crispy exterior and a tender interior. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook veal parmesan in the oven:
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help to create a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
Preparing the Veal Cutlets
Prepare the veal cutlets by seasoning them with salt and pepper. Then, dip each cutlet in beaten eggs and coat with breadcrumbs.
Assembling the Veal Parmesan
Assemble the veal parmesan by placing a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the breaded veal cutlets on top of the sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the veal cutlets.
Cooking the Veal Parmesan
Cook the veal parmesan in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also broil the veal parmesan for an additional 2-3 minutes to create a crispy top.
Cooking Time and Temperature
The cooking time and temperature will depend on the thickness of the veal cutlets and the type of oven you are using. Here’s a general guideline for cooking veal parmesan in the oven:
| Thickness of Veal Cutlets | Cooking Time | Temperature |
| — | — | — |
| Thin (1/4 inch) | 15-20 minutes | 400°F (200°C) |
| Medium (1/2 inch) | 20-25 minutes | 400°F (200°C) |
| Thick (3/4 inch) | 25-30 minutes | 400°F (200°C) |
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you achieve the perfect veal parmesan:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Use fresh veal, homemade breadcrumbs, and high-quality marinara sauce to achieve the best flavor.
- Don’t overbread: Make sure to bread the veal cutlets lightly to avoid a thick, heavy coating.
- Use the right cheese: Mozzarella cheese is the traditional choice for veal parmesan, but you can also use other types of cheese, such as parmesan or provolone.
- Add some spice: Add some dried oregano or basil to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking veal parmesan:
- Overcooking: Veal parmesan can become dry and tough if it’s overcooked. Make sure to cook it until it’s just done.
- Underbreading: If the veal cutlets are not breaded enough, they can become soggy and lose their texture.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Using low-quality ingredients can result in a dish that lacks flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Cooking veal parmesan in the oven is a great way to achieve a crispy exterior and a tender interior. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious veal parmesan dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, don’t overbread, and cook the veal parmesan until it’s just done. With a little practice and patience, you can become a master of veal parmesan and create a dish that’s truly unforgettable.
What is the ideal cut of veal for Veal Parmesan?
The ideal cut of veal for Veal Parmesan is the cutlet, which is typically taken from the leg or rib section of the animal. This cut is preferred because it is tender, lean, and has a delicate flavor that pairs well with the rich flavors of the tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
When selecting a cut of veal for Veal Parmesan, look for cutlets that are about 1/4 inch thick and have a smooth, even texture. You can also ask your butcher to pound the cutlets to an even thickness, which will help them cook more evenly.
How do I prepare the veal cutlets for breading?
To prepare the veal cutlets for breading, start by seasoning them with salt and pepper on both sides. Then, dip each cutlet in a beaten egg, making sure to coat it completely, and finally, coat the cutlet in a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
It’s essential to use a light hand when breading the veal cutlets, as too much breading can overpower the delicate flavor of the veal. You can also use a mixture of all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for a lighter coating.
What is the best way to fry the breaded veal cutlets?
The best way to fry the breaded veal cutlets is to use a skillet with about 1/2 inch of olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the breaded cutlets and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
It’s crucial to not overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and result in greasy or undercooked cutlets. Fry the cutlets in batches if necessary, and make sure to drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
How do I assemble the Veal Parmesan?
To assemble the Veal Parmesan, start by placing a fried veal cutlet on a baking dish or oven-safe plate. Then, spoon a layer of tomato sauce over the cutlet, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Finally, place the baking dish or plate under the broiler and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella for extra flavor.
What is the best way to serve Veal Parmesan?
The best way to serve Veal Parmesan is hot, straight from the oven, with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a green salad. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables, such as broccoli or zucchini, for a more well-rounded meal.
When serving Veal Parmesan, make sure to garnish it with some fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This will add a pop of color and flavor to the dish.
Can I make Veal Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Veal Parmesan ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the dish just before baking. You can prepare the veal cutlets, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese ahead of time, but it’s best to fry the cutlets and assemble the dish just before serving.
If you need to make the dish ahead of time, you can fry the veal cutlets and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Then, assemble the dish and bake it in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
How do I store leftover Veal Parmesan?
To store leftover Veal Parmesan, let it cool completely to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
When reheating leftover Veal Parmesan, make sure to heat it in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the cheese, as it can become tough and rubbery.