Veal cutlets are a beloved staple in Italian cuisine, and there are countless ways to prepare them. One variation that stands out is Veal Capricciosa, a dish that features thinly pounded veal chops topped with a refreshing salad.
This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, and it can be enjoyed by anyone who loves Italian food. In this article, we will explore the history and ingredients of Veal Capricciosa, as well as provide a step-by-step guide on how to make it at home.
So, let’s dive in and discover the wonders of this classic Italian dish!
What Is Veal Capricciosa?
Veal Capricciosa is a dish that originated in Italy and is typically made with thinly pounded veal chops. The dish is topped with a refreshing salad made with Roma tomatoes, red onion, arugula, radicchio, balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
The word “capricciosa” means “whimsical” or “fanciful” in Italian, which perfectly describes the combination of flavors and textures in this dish. The veal is tender and juicy, while the salad adds a burst of freshness and crunch.
Veal Capricciosa can also be made with thinly pounded chicken breasts instead of veal if you prefer. This makes it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of their dietary preferences.
The History Of Veal Capricciosa
Veal Capricciosa has a rich history that dates back to ancient European times. The consumption of veal was popularized by the Romans, Austrians, and the French due to its tender meat and lack of fat, making it a delicacy around Europe.
The dish itself is believed to have originated in Italy, where it was created as a variation of the classic veal cutlet. The addition of the refreshing salad on top gave the dish a new twist and made it a favorite among Italian cuisine enthusiasts.
The word “capricciosa” was added to the name of the dish due to its whimsical combination of flavors and textures. It perfectly describes the fanciful nature of this delicious Italian dish.
Veal Capricciosa has since become a staple in Italian restaurants around the world, and variations of the dish can be found in many different cultures. It has also become a versatile dish that can be made with chicken for those who prefer it over veal.
Ingredients For Veal Capricciosa
To make Veal Capricciosa, you will need the following ingredients:
– Thinly pounded veal chops (or thinly pounded chicken breasts as a substitute)
– Flour
– Eggs
– Breadcrumbs
– Olive oil for frying
– Roma tomatoes
– Red onion
– Arugula
– Radicchio
– Balsamic vinegar
– Extra virgin olive oil
– Oregano
– Salt and pepper
To prepare the dish, first dredge the veal chops in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Fry them in olive oil until golden brown on both sides. Then, combine the chopped tomatoes, red onion, arugula, radicchio, balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the salad. Plate the veal chops and top them with the salad.
Veal Capricciosa is a perfect dish for a quick and delicious meal that is full of flavor and nutrients.
How To Prepare The Veal Cutlets
To prepare the veal cutlets for Veal Capricciosa, start by dredging them in flour, then egg, and finally bread crumbs. Make sure both sides of the cutlets are evenly breaded.
Next, heat 1/2 cup of olive oil in a saute pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, fry the veal until golden brown, about 3 minutes on each side. Remove the cutlets from the pan and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
After the veal is cooked, it’s time to assemble the dish. Plate the veal and top it with the refreshing tomato salad made with Roma tomatoes, red onion, arugula, radicchio, balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
The combination of flavors and textures in Veal Capricciosa is truly whimsical and fanciful. It’s a perfect dish to impress your guests or to enjoy as a special treat for yourself.
Making The Refreshing Salad Topping
The salad topping for Veal Capricciosa is a crucial component of the dish, as it adds a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory veal. To make the salad, start by slicing Roma tomatoes and red onion into thin rounds. Then, mix them in a bowl with arugula and radicchio.
In a separate bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper to make a simple vinaigrette. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss to coat evenly.
The resulting salad should be tangy, slightly sweet, and packed with flavor. It pairs perfectly with the crispy and tender veal cutlets in Veal Capricciosa. If you want to add some extra texture to the salad, you can also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or crumbled goat cheese on top.
Putting It All Together: Serving Veal Capricciosa
If you’re looking to serve Veal Capricciosa at home, here’s how to put it all together:
1. Start by preparing the salad. In a bowl, mix together chopped Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, arugula, and radicchio. Dress the salad with a mixture of balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Next, prepare the veal. Dredge thinly pounded veal chops in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat in breadcrumbs. Heat up some oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat and cook the veal chops until golden brown on both sides.
3. To serve, place the veal chops on a plate and top with the prepared salad. Drizzle some extra dressing over the top if desired.
4. You can also add some shaved Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.
This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner at home. Serve it with some crusty bread and a glass of red wine for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Variations And Tips For Veal Capricciosa
There are many ways to customize Veal Capricciosa to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations and tips to consider:
– Prosciutto: Some recipes call for wrapping the veal in prosciutto before breading and frying it. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
– Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan or mozzarella on top of the veal before adding the salad.
– Salad: While the traditional salad for Veal Capricciosa includes Roma tomatoes, red onion, arugula, and radicchio, you can experiment with different greens and vegetables. For example, you could add roasted bell peppers or grilled zucchini to the salad.
– Dressing: The dressing for the salad can also be customized. Instead of balsamic vinegar and olive oil, you could use a lemon vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing.
– Cooking method: While most recipes call for pan-frying the veal, you could also grill it for a smoky flavor or bake it in the oven for a healthier option.
– Serving suggestions: Veal Capricciosa is often served with a side of potatoes or pasta. However, you could also serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
When making Veal Capricciosa, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor. Additionally, be sure to season the veal well with salt and pepper before breading and frying it. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and techniques to make this dish your own.