Crispy Beef Milanesa: A Classic Latin Comfort Food
Beef Milanesa is a beloved Latin American dish made of tender beef cutlets coated in a crispy breading. Originating from Italian immigrants, this dish has evolved into a regional favorite across Latin America, with variations in ingredients and preparations. Whether served with classic sides or modern twists, it’s a flavorful comfort food that brings families together.
Equipment
- - Meat mallet (or electric tenderizer)
- - Three shallow dishes for breading station
- - Skillet or Dutch oven
- - Meat Thermometer (optional)
- - Tongs or slotted spoon
Ingredients
- - 4 beef cutlets top round, flank steak, or sirloin
- - 1 cup all-purpose flour
- - 2 large eggs beaten
- - 2 cups breadcrumbs or panko
- - 1 tsp garlic powder
- - 1 tsp paprika
- - 1 tsp dried oregano
- - Salt and pepper to taste
- - Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- **Prepare the Beef**: Use a meat mallet to pound the beef cutlets to about 1/4 inch thickness. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- **Prepare the Breading Station**: Set up three shallow dishes – one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs or panko mixed with garlic powder, paprika, and oregano.
- **Bread the Beef**: Dredge each beef cutlet in flour, dip in egg, and coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coat.
- **Heat Oil**: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the breaded cutlets in the hot oil.
- **Fry the Beef**: Fry each cutlet for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil.
- **Drain and Serve**: Let the fried beef cutlets drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.