Smažený Řízek
Though not originally from the Czech Republic, Fried Schnitzel—crunchy, golden-brown breaded schnitzel—has earned its place as one of the most cherished dishes in Czech cuisine. While its roots can be traced to Austrian and German culinary traditions, the dish has been fully embraced and perfected by the Czech people. It has become a staple of Sunday lunches, family gatherings, and festive celebrations, deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the country.
The heart of this beloved dish lies in its main ingredient: meat. Typically, pork or chicken are used, which are sliced thinly and then tenderized through careful pounding. The seasoning remains minimal yet impactful—salt, freshly ground black pepper, and, on occasion, a hint of garlic to elevate the depth of flavor. However, the star of the show is the signature crispy coating, which comes from a simple but effective three-step breading process. First, the meat is lightly coated in flour. Then, it’s dipped into beaten eggs, and finally, it’s covered in fine, golden breadcrumbs, creating a beautiful golden hue when fried. The schnitzel is shallow-fried in a pan, usually with lard or vegetable oil, until the exterior reaches a perfect crisp while the interior remains tender and juicy. Some home cooks prefer to finish the schnitzel in the oven to ensure an even cook and to preserve tenderness, although this step is optional.
What truly makes Fried Schnitzel exceptional is its quintessential companion: Czech-style potato salad. This side dish, hearty and indulgent, challenges the idea of a typical salad by delivering richness and comfort. The base of the potato salad is boiled potatoes, which are peeled and cut into small cubes. To enhance both the flavor and texture, finely diced cooked carrots, green peas, pickles, and onions are folded in. The combination of these ingredients provides a delicious balance of sweetness, tanginess, and savory notes. The crowning touch is the creamy dressing, made primarily of full-fat mayonnaise, sometimes with the addition of mustard or sour cream to add a subtle tang and extra flavor. In many Czech households, the creaminess of the potato salad is a source of pride—generally, the creamier, the better!
The pairing of crispy schnitzel and velvety potato salad goes beyond being just a meal—it’s a nostalgic experience that brings people together. Whether it’s enjoyed during a casual family dinner, a holiday celebration, or a special occasion, the combination of textures and flavors creates a comforting sense of togetherness. Each Czech family may have their unique twist on the dish, with some adding secret ingredients, but the essence of the meal remains constant—simple, satisfying, and deeply rooted in Czech culinary heritage.
Recipe: Smažený rízek with Czech potato salad
Ingredients:
For the schnitzel:
- 4 boneless pork or chicken cutlets
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fine)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or lard for frying
For the potato salad:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1/4 cup frozen or fresh green peas
- 2 small pickles, finely chopped
- 1/4 onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar (optional, for a tangy twist)
Prepare the schnitzel:
- Begin by pounding the pork or chicken cutlets to about 1/4 inch thick using a meat mallet. This step ensures the meat becomes tender and cooks evenly.
- Season both sides of the cutlets with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and minced garlic (if using).
- Set up a breading station: In one shallow dish, place flour; in another, beat the eggs; and in a third, add the breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each cutlet in flour, making sure it’s lightly coated, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it evenly with breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently to ensure they stick well.
- Heat oil or lard in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded cutlets in the pan and fry them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Make sure the oil doesn’t get too hot, as this can burn the breadcrumbs before the meat is fully cooked.
- Once cooked, transfer the schnitzels to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. For an extra crispy finish, you can also place the schnitzels in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes.
Prepare the potato salad:
- Begin by boiling the potatoes in salted water until they are soft but not falling apart. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Once cooled, peel and dice them into bite-sized cubes.
- In a separate pot, cook the carrots and peas until tender. Drain them and allow them to cool as well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, cooked carrots, peas, chopped pickles, and diced onions.
- Add mayonnaise, mustard (if using), salt, pepper, and white vinegar to the mixture. Stir gently to combine everything until you achieve a creamy texture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Serve:
- Once the schnitzels are ready and the potato salad has chilled, arrange the schnitzels on a plate alongside a generous serving of the potato salad.
- Optionally, garnish the schnitzels with a sprig of fresh parsley or a slice of lemon for a burst of freshness.
- Serve the dish with a cold glass of Czech beer or a light white wine to enhance the flavors and enjoy a truly authentic Czech dining experience.
Fried Schnitzel with Czech-style potato salad is more than just a meal—it’s a cherished tradition passed down through generations. The crispy, golden schnitzel pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy potato salad, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether enjoyed during a holiday celebration, a family gathering, or simply a comforting dinner at home, this dish captures the essence of Czech hospitality and warmth. It’s simple yet indulgent, familiar yet endlessly comforting. Prepare this dish at home and take a bite of Czech heritage, bringing the flavors of this beloved country into your own kitchen!
