Are you craving a delicious, crispy dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than Milanesa steak! This classic dish, beloved across Latin America and beyond, offers a fantastic balance of textures and flavors. Tender, juicy steak gets a crispy, golden-brown coating, creating a truly satisfying meal. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner looking for quick dinner ideas, this recipe is perfect for you. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this simple yet impressive recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) beef steaks (sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak work well)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Equipment:
- Three shallow dishes
- Large skillet or frying pan
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Milanesa
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Prepare the steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
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Set up your breading station: Place the flour in one dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumbs in a third. Mix the garlic powder and paprika into the breadcrumbs.
Breading and Frying the Steak
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Bread the steaks: Dredge each steak in the flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat the steak thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.
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Heat the oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into the skillet to reach about 1/4 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it's shimmering and hot enough – a pinch of breadcrumb should sizzle immediately when added.
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Fry the steaks: Carefully place the breaded steaks in the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
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Drain and serve: Once cooked, remove the steaks from the pan and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions:
Milanesa steak is incredibly versatile. Serve it with a side of:
- French fries
- A fresh salad
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Your favorite dipping sauce (chimichurri sauce is a classic pairing)
Tips for the Best Milanesa:
- Don't skip the paper towels: Drying the steaks thoroughly is key to achieving a crispy crust.
- Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier coating than regular breadcrumbs.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy Milanesa.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker steaks will require longer cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your desired internal temperature.
Variations:
- Chicken Milanesa: Substitute chicken breasts for the beef steaks. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Spicy Milanesa: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumbs for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Milanesa: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme into the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 (depending on the cut of steak and oil used)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
This recipe for Milanesa steak provides a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The crispy coating and juicy interior make it a truly memorable dish. Enjoy!