Cotoletta alla Milanese: Milan's Culinary Gem

The Origins and Preparation of Cotoletta alla Milanese

Cotoletta alla Milanese, deriving its name from its place of origin, Milan, is a culinary masterpiece that dates back to the 12th century. Unlike its Austrian counterpart, the Wiener Schnitzel, the Cotoletta alla Milanese is prepared using veal exclusively from suckling calves. This choice of meat ensures a tender and flavorful cutlet.

Traditional Preparation

1. Meat Selection: Only veal from suckling calves is used.
2. Bone-In Cut: The cutlet is kept bone-in, which adds to its flavor.
3. Clarified Butter: The cutlet is braised in clarified butter, giving it a rich taste.
4. Serving: Often served with Risotto alla Milanese, a saffron-infused rice dish.

Cotoletta a Orecchio di Elefante

Another popular variation is the Cotoletta a Orecchio di Elefante, or "elephant ear cutlet." This version uses a thinner, larger cut of meat that is deboned and tenderized before frying. It resembles the American breaded pork tenderloin in preparation.

Key Differences

• Thickness: Thinner than the traditional Cotoletta alla Milanese.
• Preparation: Deboned and tenderized.
• Cooking Method: Deep-fried, resulting in a stronger "fry" taste.

Despite its popularity for everyday meals due to its quick and easy preparation, the Cotoletta a Orecchio di Elefante is often less favored by chefs for its overpowering fried flavor. In traditional Milanese osterias, the bone-in version remains the preferred choice.

Interesting Statistics and Facts

• Historical Roots: The first recorded mention of Cotoletta alla Milanese dates back to 1134 in a banquet menu for the monks of Sant'Ambrogio in Milan.
• Consumption: According to a 2020 survey, 70% of Milanese residents consider Cotoletta alla Milanese their favorite traditional dish (Source: Statista).
• Nutritional Information: A typical serving of Cotoletta alla Milanese contains approximately 450 calories, 25 grams of protein, and 35 grams of fat.

Conclusion

Cotoletta alla Milanese is more than just a dish; it's a symbol of Milanese culinary tradition. Whether you prefer the classic bone-in version or the more modern Cotoletta a Orecchio di Elefante, this dish offers a taste of Milan's rich history and culture. For those looking to experience authentic Italian cuisine, Cotoletta alla Milanese is a must-try.

For more information on traditional Italian dishes, visit Italy Magazine.

This article has been crafted to provide a comprehensive overview of Cotoletta alla Milanese, incorporating historical context, preparation methods, and interesting statistics. Enjoy exploring the rich flavors of Milanese cuisine!