Wild Boar or Pork Schnitzel

Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Schnitzel:

  • 4 wild boar or pork cutlets (bone-in or boneless)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten with 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil and butter, for frying

For the Gremolata:

  • 1 cup parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp thyme leaves (or substitute with basil, dill, or mint)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Method

  1. Prepare the Cutlets:
    • Pound the wild boar or pork cutlets to a thickness of about 1 cm.
    • Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Bread the Cutlets:
    • Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off any excess.
    • Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
    • Press into the panko mixture (breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and smoked paprika) until evenly covered.
  3. Fry the Schnitzels:
    • Heat a generous amount of olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Fry the cutlets for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
    • Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
  4. Make the Gremolata:
    • In a small bowl, combine parsley, thyme leaves, lemon zest, garlic, and olive oil.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a personal twist, add your favourite herbs like dill or mint.
  5. Serve:
    • Arrange the schnitzels on serving plates and top with a generous spoonful of gremolata.
    • Serve with lemon wedges and a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Tips and Variations

  • For Extra Flavour: Marinate the cutlets in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for 1 hour before breading.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour with almond flour.
  • Gremolata Upgrade: Add a touch of grated parmesan or a pinch of chilli flakes for added depth.

Enjoy this crisp, flavourful dish with a refreshing gremolata twist—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!