Wiener Schnitzel: A Culinary Masterpiece Through the Lenses of Aesthetics, Conditioning, and Evolution

Wiener schnitzel is one of the most famous and popular dishes in Austria and for a good reason. It is a thin, crispy, and tender cutlet of veal (or sometimes pork or chicken) that is coated with breadcrumbs and fried in butter or oil. It is usually served with a wedge of lemon and some side dishes, such as potato salad, cucumber salad, or fries. Wiener schnitzel is not only tasty but also easy to make at home. In this blog post, I will show you how to prepare authentic wiener schnitzel from scratch, using simple ingredients and following a few tips and tricks. 

To make wiener schnitzel, you will need four veal cutlets (about 150 to 180 grams each), some all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, nutmeg, eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, milk, breadcrumbs, and butter or oil for frying. You will also need a meat mallet or a rolling pin to pound the meat, and a large skillet to cook it.

The first step is to pound the veal cutlets to a thin and even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This will make them more tender and cook faster. To do this, place the cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper, and use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to hit them until they are flat. Be careful not to tear the meat or make holes in it.

The next step is to break the cutlets. To do this, set up three shallow dishes: one with flour mixed with salt, one with eggs beaten with Parmesan cheese, milk, parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and one with breadcrumbs. Dredge each cutlet in flour first, shaking off any excess. Then dip it in the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs, making sure to coat it well but not pressing them into the meat. The breading should form a loose shell around the cutlet.

The last step is to fry the cutlets. To do this, heat some butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350 degrees F. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature or look for signs of shimmering or smoking. Carefully place the breaded cutlets in the hot oil, without crowding the pan. Fry them for about 3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Your wiener schnitzel is ready! Serve it hot with lemon slices and your choice of side dishes. Enjoy!

Now to the fun part

Wiener Schnitzel Vs. Theory of Aesthetics

At its essence, the realm of aesthetics delves into the recognition of beauty and the crafting of artistic expressions. Wiener Schnitzel, characterized by its lustrous, amber-hued exterior and the succulence of either veal or pork, stands as a paragon within the realm of culinary artistry. Solely its visual allure draws a parallel to the admiration one bestows upon a meticulously fashioned artwork or sculpture. The thinly pounded cutlet, enveloped in an impeccable layer of breadcrumbs, engenders a profound perception of equilibrium and harmony.

The platter that cradles the schnitzel metamorphoses into a canvas, embellished with the vibrancy of lemon wedges and sprigs of parsley. The juxtaposition of the zesty lemon and the crisp schnitzel instigates a visual concerto. In this context, the act of preparing and presenting Wiener Schnitzel encapsulates the quintessence of aesthetic reverence within the gastronomic sphere.

Wiener Schnitzel Vs. Theory of Operant Conditioning

Operant conditioning, as advanced by psychologist B.F. Skinner delves into the molding of behavior through outcomes. When it comes to cuisine, our minds exhibit considerable susceptibility to conditioning. Wiener Schnitzel, renowned for its crispy texture and savory essence, possesses the potential to invoke a Pavlovian reaction in those familiar with its allure. The mere contemplation or sighting of an impeccably prepared schnitzel can initiate a chain of sensory responses.

Contemplate the eagerness that surges as the schnitzel crackles in bubbling oil, permeating the kitchen with its fragrance. The sonorous sizzle, the spectacle of the browning exterior, and the aroma coalesce into a sensory symphony that conditions our salivary glands to spring into action. With each delectable morsel, we receive a gratifying juxtaposition of textures and flavors, further reinforcing our yearning for this culinary masterpiece. In essence, our affection for Wiener Schnitzel stands as a testament to the influence of operant conditioning within the realm of gastronomy.

Wiener Schnitzel Vs. Theory of Evolution

Evolutionary theory delves into the gradual adjustments species make to their surroundings across time. In the culinary domain, creations such as Wiener Schnitzel epitomize cultural transformation and development. While this dish has its roots in Austria, it has morphed into a cherished delicacy embraced worldwide.

The employment of breadcrumbs and frying techniques represents adaptations to the resources and culinary practices prevalent in Austria. The thinness of the cutlet serves as an efficient means to maximize the use of scarce meat, while the frying process not only preserves but also imparts flavor to the meat. Over centuries, Wiener Schnitzel has persisted, transforming to align with shifting preferences and tastes. It has endured as a resilient culinary survivor in the ever-evolving landscape of cuisine.

In the world of cuisine, Wiener Schnitzel transcends mere sustenance, becoming an edible work of art that engages our senses, molds our desires, and embodies the spirit of adaptation. As we savor each crispy bite, we partake in a culinary journey that mirrors the complexities of aesthetics, the power of operant conditioning, and the resilience of evolution. Wiener Schnitzel's enduring appeal serves as a reminder that even in the ever-changing landscape of gastronomy, some flavors stand the test of time, evolving into timeless classics that continue to captivate our palates and ignite our culinary passions. So, let us raise our forks to this iconic dish, celebrating its multifaceted significance in the world of both art and taste.

Peace Out