Milanesa a la Napolitana is a popular Argentine dish that combines elements of Italian cuisine with local flavors. This dish features breaded and fried beef or chicken cutlets topped with ham, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. It’s a comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
For the Cutlets:
- 4 beef or chicken cutlets, pounded to 1/4-inch thickness
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Olive oil for frying
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 4 slices of ham
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Cutlets:
- Season the Cutlets:
- Season both sides of the cutlets with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Coat the Cutlets:
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, and paprika in the third.
- Dredge each cutlet in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the Cutlets:
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded cutlets until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Assembling the Milanesa a la Napolitana:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Add the Toppings:
- Place the fried cutlets on a baking sheet. Spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet, then top with a slice of ham. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake the Cutlets:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with a side of mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or your favorite vegetable.
Conclusion:
Milanesa a la Napolitana is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings a taste of Argentina to your table. With its crispy cutlets, savory toppings, and melted cheese, this dish is perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week. ¡Buen provecho!