Schnitzel is a popular dish in Austrian cuisine that is made by pounding thin cutlets of meat, coating them in breadcrumbs or flour, and then frying them. While the meat itself is quite simple, Austrians take great pride in the accompaniments and sides that they serve with their schnitzel. In this article, we’ll explore the most common and beloved pairings for this iconic dish.
Potato Salad
One of the most classic and customary pairings for a Wiener schnitzel or any type of schnitzel is a vinegar-based potato salad. This cool, tangy potato dish provides an excellent contrast in texture and flavor to the crispy, pan-fried cutlet.
The typical potato salad served with schnitzel in Austria has sliced boiled potatoes tossed in a dressing of oil, vinegar, onions, and fresh parsley. Other ingredients like diced pickles, capers, mustard, or chopped hard-boiled eggs may also be added. The potatoes retain their shape and soak up the savory dressing.
Enjoying a few bites of the tender, bright potato salad in between the crispy, creamy schnitzel makes for a perfectly balanced meal. The salad also aids in cutting through the richness of the fried meat. Potatoes and schnitzel are a tried-and-true pairing that just makes sense.
Root Vegetables
In addition to potato salad, Austrians will often serve schnitzel with roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or beets. These earthy, sweet vegetables complement the fried cutlet beautifully.
The root vegetables are diced, tossed in olive oil and herbs, roasted until caramelized, and served warm. The natural sugars in the vegetables caramelize and intensify in flavor when roasted. Their soft, yielding texture provides contrast to the crunchy schnitzel.
Root vegetables like carrots and parsnips are a popular choice as they tend to be sweet and pair well with salty, savory foods. Beets add gorgeous color and a hint of earthiness. Fennel is another excellent option with its crisp anise flavor. The vegetables soak up the pan juices and frying oil, tying everything together.
Austrian Potato Salad Recipe
Here is a traditional recipe for Austrian potato salad to serve alongside your schnitzel:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1/2 inch slices
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Instructions:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add potato slices and cook until just fork tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain potatoes well and transfer to a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, onion, parsley, mustard, sugar, salt and pepper.
- Pour dressing over warm potatoes and gently toss to coat.
- Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled, about 1 hour.
- Serve chilled alongside hot schnitzel.
Sauces and Condiments
Austrians will often serve an array of sauces and condiments alongside a properly breaded Wiener schnitzel to add extra flavor. Here are some popular accompaniments:
- Lemon wedges – A squeeze of tart, bright lemon is an absolute must for schnitzel. The acidity helps cut through the fried coating.
- Cranberry sauce – Tart cranberry compote provides delicious contrast to the crispy meat.
- Lingonberry jam – Similar to cranberry, the sweet-tart lingonberry is a perfect match.
- Applesauce – Cool, creamy applesauce balances the saltiness.
- Gravy – Rich brown pan gravies made from the schnitzel drippings are divine.
- Herb butter – Melting slices of soft, seasoned butter over the top is simple but sublime.
Austrians may also provide traditional condiments like coarse-grained mustard, horseradish, and ketchup to allow guests to customize to taste.
Breads and Rolls
A basket of fresh breads or rolls is another essential companion for schnitzel in Austria. Breaded cutlets and soft bread were truly made for each other.
Some top choices include:
- Kaiser rolls – The quintessential hamburger bun is perfect for soaking up pan juices.
- Sourdough rolls – Hearty, chewy texture to contrast the crispy schnitzel.
- Rye bread – The rich, malty flavor of rye complements the meat.
- Pretzel rolls – The salty, crusty exterior provides a satisfying crunch.
The bread can be used to make a sandwich with the cutlet or simply enjoyed in between bites. Be sure to get a roll that can stand up to the juicy meat without getting soggy.
Recommended Side Dishes
In addition to sauces and bread, Austrians will serve various side dishes along with the potato salad to round out the meal. Here are some excellent choices to consider:
Cucumber Salad
A cucumber salad featuring sliced cucumbers in a dressing of sour cream, vinegar, and fresh dill is a perfect light and cooling accompaniment.
Coleslaw
Creamy cabbage coleslaw with caraway seeds ties together the potato salad and cutlet beautifully.
Buttered Spaetzle
These tiny German egg noodles are cooked until fluffy and tossed with butter and herbs.
Sauerkraut
Tart, briny sauerkraut provides an excellent vegetable side and cuts through the richness.
Asparagus
In spring, roasted or grilled asparagus is amazing alongside the schnitzel.
Green Salad
A simple green salad with vinaigrette is always a safe choice.
Mix and match your favorite sides to design a stellar schnitzel platter. The options are endless!
Traditional Austrian Beers
To wash it all down, Austrians will often enjoy a cold, refreshing beer with their schnitzel. Here are two excellent choices:
- Helles – A pale lager with a light, malty flavor that complements the fried meat beautifully.
- Märzen – A smooth, amber-colored lager with a toasty biscuit-like malt profile.
Crisp pilsners and wheat beers also pair nicely with all of the sides and sauces. A local Austrian beer is always a perfect beverage to complete the schnitzel experience.
Conclusion
Schnitzel is an iconic dish in Austria, and Austrians take great care in choosing the perfect accompaniments to enhance the delicious breaded cutlet. Cool potato and cucumber salads, sweet roasted root vegetables, tangy sauces, and fresh breads all complete a perfect schnitzel plate. Austrians have perfected the art of the schnitzel pairing over generations, so take inspiration from local tradition to serve this national dish like a pro.