Image by Adrian Balasoiu

Veal Milanese

Veal Milanese has a distinct flavor that sets it apart from other Italian dishes. Heralding from Milan, Italy, it is a succulent dish of breaded veal cutlet, fried in butter and finished off with a sharp lemon squeeze and a sprinkling of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

Veal Milanese


The tenderness of the veal, combined with the crispness of the breading is a delightful blend of textures that will tantalize your taste buds. It's a dish that is truly fit for epicureans, yet deceptively simple to prepare.

The veal Milanese is a hearty meal in itself, but it also pairs deliciously with some sides such as a chilled tomato salad or sautéed mushrooms. To enhance this deliquescent entrée even further, try adding herbs like oregano, parsley and basil.

When it comes to selecting the right cut of veal for your veal Milanese, opt for the leaner cuts of the animal. Not only does it provide a more robust flavor, but it also ensures that the texture remains juicy and tender.

To successfully prepare the veal Milanese, start by pounding the cutlet until it is about ¼ inch thick, then dredge it in a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Then, heat up butter in a wide skillet until it starts to foam, then place the cutlet in the pan and let it fry until both sides are golden brown.

Finally, top the veal Milanese with a squeeze of lemon juice and a handful of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Serve it over a bed of arugula to add a pop of color and texture.

A dish so exquisite is worth savoring, so the next time you're looking for something a little out of the ordinary and extraordinary, give Veal Milanese a try.

The origin of Veal Milanese

The origin of the dish Veal Milanese is a topic that has generated some fierce debate among culinary historians.

Legend has it that the dish was created during the Medieval period, with folklore telling of a brave knight who returned from a campaign in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy with a bag of veal, setting forth a challenge to the local cooks to create something special. This is the story that many people continue to tell of the iconic, peasant-style dish.

However, there is evidence to suggest the dish may have in fact originated in the early 19th century. There are several accounts of chefs from the area serving a version of Veal Milanese around this time, although they commonly referred to it as ‘Vitello alla Milanese’, which translated to 'Milan style veal'.

What we can be sure of, regardless of its exact origins, is that Veal Milanese is a truly worthy classic. Its renowned crunchy texture, achieved by coating the meat in egg and breadcrumbs, remains heavy in popularity today.

In a world full of evolving gastronomic trends and fads, Veal Milanese continues to stand the test of time, allowing those seeking comfort food a classic go-to dish that will always guarantee a delicious feast reminiscent of yesteryear.

FAQs about Veal Milanese

Is Veal Milanese healthy?

No, veal Milanese is not generally considered a healthy food option. It is fried, and therefore high in saturated fat, calories and sodium.


What does Milanese style mean?

Milanese style refers to the designs, architecture, fashion, and art originating from Milan, Italy. It is often characterized by a combination of traditional Mediterranean influences and modern sensibilities. Some common elements of Milanese style include simple yet elegant lines, natural materials, and neutral colors.


What is the difference between Veal Milanese and Wiener Schnitzel?

The main difference between Veal Milanese and Wiener Schnitzel is the type of meat used. Veal Milanese uses veal cutlets, while Wiener Schnitzel is made with pork cutlets. In addition, Veal Milanese has a lighter coating, usually flavored with Parmesan cheese, while Wiener Schnitzel is coated with a heavier breadcrumb coating.


What is Veal Milanese made of?

Veal Milanese is made with a thin cut of veal that is coated in egg, then rolled in breadcrumbs and fried. It is usually served with a salad or side dish.


Types of Veal Milanese

Veal Milanese is one of the most celebrated Italian dishes, originating from Milan and the Lombardy region of Northern Italy. It consists of a cutlet of veal, typically pounded thin and then coated in breadcrumbs before being fried. This classic dish has been embraced by chefs around the world, resulting in endless variations on the recipe.

These days, when you order veal Milanese in restaurants or make it at home, chances are you'll find it served with a tangy lemon juice and olive oil dressing, and sprinkled with Parmesan or Pecorino cheese. Though this version is undoubtedly delicious, there are other ways to enjoy this classic dish.

One variation is with tomato sauce. This version involves layering pounded veal cutlets and sliced tomatoes between layers of mozzarella, Parmesan, and bread crumbs and then baking all together. The result is an incredibly savory and (dare we say it) luscious take on the classic dish.

Another tasty iteration is the Carpaccio Milanese. The veal cutlet is pounded thin and left raw, usually covered in olive oil and lemon juice and garnished with grated horseradish and pickles. This dish is often served with some kind of salad or a side of green beans.

Veal Milanese can also be served as a patty, either fried or grilled. This version is covered in flavorful ingredients like garlic, parsley, and butter, giving it a unique and unusual flavor. This version of the dish is often served with polenta, mashed potatoes, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Finally, if you're looking for something a bit more ambitious, you can try the Vitello Tonnato. This complex version of the dish includes thinly-sliced veal cutlets served with a creamy mayonnaise-based tuna sauce. This unusual yet delectable accompaniment makes for an elegant and unexpected entrée.

No matter which recipe catches your eye, Veal Milanese is a perfect choice when looking for something special and scrumptious. Whether you're in the mood for a classic take on the dish or something a bit more adventurous, Veal Milanese is sure to delight.