The Origins of Schnitzel | Grumpy Butcher (2024)

Schnitzel is a traditional dish that is widely enjoyed in many parts of the world. It is a thin slice of meat that is typically breaded and fried until crispy, and is often served with various side dishes and condiments. Let's take a look at the history of schnitzel and how it became one of the most beloved dishes in European cuisine and a staple at some of America's finest restaurants. At Den's Hog Dogs, we encourage you to try our pork and chicken schnitzel.

The history of schnitzel starts in Austria

The history of schnitzel can be traced back to 19th century Austria. The dish was likely pioneered by Austrian Field Marshal Joseph Radetzky, who was known for his love of fine food and drink. Legend has it that Radetzky discovered a recipe for a breaded and fried veal cutlet during his travels in Italy, and brought it back to Austria where it became an instant hit.

The dish quickly spread throughout Austria and Germany, and became a staple of traditional German and Austrian cuisine. It was often served with potatoes, cabbage, or other hearty side dishes, and was a popular choice for family meals and celebrations.

Over the years, schnitzel has evolved and taken on many different variations. While the original recipe called for veal, it is now commonly made with pork, chicken, or even turkey. The breading and frying process has also been adapted to include different types of breadcrumbs and seasonings, resulting in a wide variety of flavors and textures.

When did Schnitzel become popular in the United States?

Schnitzel started its rise to popularity in the United States in the mid-20th century, with the influx of German and Austrian immigrants. These immigrants brought with them their culinary traditions, including schnitzel, which quickly became a popular dish in German-American restaurants and households.

In the decades following World War II, there was a growing interest in international cuisine and culinary exploration in the United States. As a result, schnitzel began to appear on the menus of non-German restaurants as well, and became a favorite among adventurous eaters.

Today, schnitzel is widely enjoyed in the United States, both in traditional German and Austrian restaurants and in contemporary establishments that offer their own unique variations on the classic dish. It has become a beloved part of American culinary culture, and is a popular choice for anyone looking for a satisfying and comforting meal.

What are some great tasting side dishes that will go well with pork or chicken schnitzel from Grumpy Butcher?

If you are looking for something authentic to serve with your pork or chicken schnitzels, from Grumpy Butcher, here are some ideas to try:

  • Potatoes: Potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with schnitzel. They can be prepared in a variety of ways, including mashed, roasted, or fried. German-style potato salad, which is made with vinegar and bacon, is also a popular choice.
  • Cabbage: Red cabbage or sauerkraut are often served as a side dish with schnitzel. These tangy and flavorful vegetables provide a nice contrast to the richness of the meat.
  • Spaetzle: Spaetzle, which are small, soft egg noodles, are a traditional side dish in German cuisine. They are often served with gravy or a creamy sauce and make a great accompaniment to schnitzel.
  • Green vegetables: Schnitzel can also be paired with green vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. These vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy and savory schnitzel.
  • Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also be a great side dish to serve with schnitzel. The acidity of the dressing can help cut through the richness of the meat.

You can easily prepare the schnitzel entree kits from Grumpy Butcher in under ten minutes. Enjoy these entrees and others from some of the finest restaurants in the United States.

The Origins of Schnitzel | Grumpy Butcher (2024)

FAQs

The Origins of Schnitzel | Grumpy Butcher? ›

The history of schnitzel starts in Austria

Where is schnitzel originally from? ›

Austria. Wiener schnitzel, a very thin, breaded and pan fried cutlet made from veal, is one of the best known specialities of Viennese cuisine, and is one of the national dishes of Austria.

Where is schnitzel cut from? ›

One of the most versatile cuts around, schnitzel is a thin slice of meat achieved by pounding it with a meat tenderiser. This boneless cut is sliced thinly and typically comes from the thick flank.

Why is schnitzel so popular in Israel? ›

After the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 and during the period of national rationing that followed (known as the tzena), the new Ministry of Absorption taught housewives how to prepare dishes that utilized ingredients that were both inexpensive and readily available, of which one such dish was chicken or ...

Was schnitzel invented in Italy? ›

Legend has it that in 1857 Austrian Field Marshal Joseph Radetzky brought the recipe back from Italian territories under the Habsburg rule, adding a note in his report to the emperor about a “deliciously breaded veal cutlet.” Making Wiener schnitzel is easy.

What do Americans call schnitzel? ›

schnitzel, a thin meat cutlet, pounded until tender and then breaded and fried, that is a culinary staple in German-speaking countries and communities. The Americanized version of the dish is chicken-fried steak. schnitzel.

Where did Schnitz start? ›

In 2007 the family decided to make the schnitzel the centrepiece of the menu and started a small city café in Melbourne called Schnitz. Since then, Schnitz has grown to become a nationwide franchise.

What is schnitzel vs schnitzel? ›

Basically, all schnitzels are breaded and fried thin pieces of meat, but only wiener schnitzel is made with veal. Cooking term: Schnitzel is a cooking term used to describe any meat pounded thin, then breaded and fried. Key ingredient: Schnitzel is made with pork, chicken, beef, or veal.

What is schnitzel meat called? ›

The dish's name actually comes from the German word schnitt, which translates to "cut." The most popular type of meat for schnitzel is veal (wiener-schnitzel) or pork (schweine-schnitzel), but you also see varieties made with chicken (hänchen-schnitzel), or turkey (puten-schnitzel).

What are the 7 different types of schnitzel? ›

Jump to:
  • Top 1 – Wiener Schnitzel – Wienerschnitzel.
  • Top 2 – Breaded Schnitzel – Paniertes Schnitzel.
  • Top 3 – Unbreaded Schnitzel – Schnitzel Natur.
  • Top 4 – Jager Schnitzel – Jägerschnitzel.
  • Top 5 – Schnitzel With Cream Gravy – Rahmschnitzel.
  • Top 6 – Gypsy Schnitzel – Zigeunerschnitzel.
  • Top 7 – Schnitzel Sandwich.

What is the most eaten meat in Israel? ›

Chicken is the most widely eaten meat in Israel, followed by turkey.

What is the number one food in Israel? ›

Falafel is probably the most recognizably Israeli food there is. In almost every town in Israel you can find a choice of shops attracting the hungry with the delicious smell of frying falafels.

What food was invented in Israel? ›

Food and drink

Ptitim, also called Israeli couscous worldwide, is a wheat-based baked pasta. It was initially invented during the austerity period in Israel when rice and semolina were scarce. Safed cheese or Tzfat cheese is a semi-hard, salty cheese produced in Israel from sheep's milk.

Did Jews invent schnitzel? ›

Originally brought from Europe to Israel by Ashkenazi Jews, schnitzel instantly became a hit. During the early years of the state of Israel, veal was not widely available, so chicken or turkey became a substitute. Nowadays, the meat used is generally chicken or turkey breast to keep it kosher.

What is the birthplace of schnitzel? ›

The history of schnitzel starts in Austria

The dish quickly spread throughout Austria and Germany, and became a staple of traditional German and Austrian cuisine. It was often served with potatoes, cabbage, or other hearty side dishes, and was a popular choice for family meals and celebrations.

What ethnicity is schnitzel? ›

The dish is most associated with German and Austrian cuisines, and takes its name from the German word for cutlet. Although a variety of meats and poultry can be used, the most popular versions feature veal, called weiner schnitzel, and pork, called schweineschnitzel.

Are schnitzels German or Austrian? ›

The history of schnitzel starts in Austria

Legend has it that Radetzky discovered a recipe for a breaded and fried veal cutlet during his travels in Italy, and brought it back to Austria where it became an instant hit.

What's the difference between Wiener Schnitzel and a schnitzel? ›

Basically, all schnitzels are breaded and fried thin pieces of meat, but only wiener schnitzel is made with veal. Cooking term: Schnitzel is a cooking term used to describe any meat pounded thin, then breaded and fried. Key ingredient: Schnitzel is made with pork, chicken, beef, or veal.

Is schnitzel from Milan? ›

The schnitzel – or rib? – it is one of the most iconic dishes of Milanese cuisine, as well as one of the most appreciated. Its origins are very ancient, but this dish - for which veal or pork is generally used - is today interpreted in different ways.

Why do Australians love schnitzel? ›

No doubt Adelaide's love for schnitzels is something that links back to South Australia's early history, when Germans came here in big numbers as part of the city's pioneer settlement.

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