Veal Parmesan is a delicious Italian-American dish that consists of breaded veal cutlets topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese. One serving of 1 piece (223.3 g) Veal Parmesan contains around 449 calories.

Apart from being a tasty dish, Veal Parmesan is also a good source of protein, niacin, vitamins B6 and B12, and zinc. However, due to its high calorie and fat content, it should be consumed in moderation.

In this article, we will provide some tips on how to prepare, cook, and serve Veal Parmesan, as well as some of its nutritional benefits and variations.

What is Veal Parmesan?

Veal Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that is made by coating veal cutlets in breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, and then pan-frying or baking them. The cooked cutlets are then topped with a generous layer of tomato sauce and melted cheese (usually mozzarella or Parmesan), before being served hot with spaghetti or garlic bread. This dish is popular in many Italian-American households, and is often served at family gatherings or special occasions. While it originated in Italy, Veal Parmesan has since become a staple of modern Italian-American cuisine.

Nutritional Information

Veal Parmesan is a good source of protein, niacin, vitamins B6 and B12, and zinc. One serving of 1 piece (223.3 g) contains around 449 calories, 26 g of fat (11 g saturated), 31 g of carbohydrates, and 26 g of protein. It also contains about 41% of your daily recommended intake of calcium. However, due to its high calorie and fat content, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How to Cook Veal Parmesan

To prepare Veal Parmesan, start by pounding veal cutlets to make them thin and tender. Season them with salt and pepper, and then coat them in seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and egg wash. Heat a skillet with oil and cook the cutlets until golden brown on both sides. Next, top the cutlets with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, and bake in the oven at 375°F for around 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot with spaghetti or garlic bread. For a healthier version, you can also try air frying or grilling the coated cutlets instead of pan-frying, and use low-fat or part-skim mozzarella cheese.

Health Benefits of Veal Parmesan

Veal Parmesan can be a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, especially if prepared with lean cuts of veal and served with healthy sides like steamed vegetables or salad. However, due to its high fat and calorie content, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Excessive consumption of high-calorie foods like Veal Parmesan can increase your risk of obesity, heart disease, and other health problems.

Side Dishes to Serve with Veal Parmesan

Veal Parmesan is traditionally served with spaghetti or garlic bread, but you can also try it with other side dishes like grilled vegetables, steamed broccoli or asparagus, roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. These sides can help balance out the richness of the dish and provide additional nutrients and fiber.

Popular Variations of Veal Parmesan

While the classic Veal Parmesan recipe is delicious on its own, there are also many variations and adaptations you can try. Some popular options include:

• Chicken Parmesan – substitute veal with chicken breast cutlets
• Eggplant Parmesan – substitute veal with thinly sliced eggplant
• Vegetarian Parmesan – substitute veal with tofu or tempeh, and use vegan cheese and egg substitute
• Gluten-free Parmesan – use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to coat the cutlets, and serve with gluten-free pasta or bread
• Spicy Parmesan – add hot peppers or red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for some heat

Tips for Making the Perfect Veal Parmesan

To make the perfect Veal Parmesan, follow these tips:

• Use thin and tender veal cutlets, and pound them evenly for even cooking
• Season the cutlets with salt and pepper before coating them in breadcrumbs
• Use fresh breadcrumbs and grate the Parmesan cheese yourself for maximum flavor
• Choose a high-quality tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella cheese for best results
• Bake the cutlets until the cheese is melted and bubbly, but not burnt

Choosing the Right Veal for Your Parmesan Dish

When choosing veal for your Parmesan dish, look for lean cuts like leg or loin, which are lower in fat and cholesterol than other cuts. Ask your butcher for recommendations or look for labeled options like 'veal top round' or 'veal cutlets'. If possible, choose humanely raised and sustainably sourced veal.

Other Recipes Featuring Veal

Veal is a versatile and flavorful meat that can be used in a variety of dishes, including:

• Veal Marsala – pan-fried veal cutlets topped with a Marsala wine sauce and mushrooms
• Veal Osso Buco – braised veal shanks served with risotto or pasta
• Veal Scallopini – thinly sliced veal cutlets cooked in a white wine and butter sauce
• Veal Stew – cubed veal cooked in a tomato-based stew with vegetables and herbs

Where to Find Veal Parmesan Near You

If you're not in the mood to cook Veal Parmesan at home, you can find it at many Italian-American restaurants and pizzerias. Use online directories and review sites like Yelp, Zomato, or TripAdvisor to find a place near you that serves Veal Parmesan. You can also check with local Italian-American associations or groups for recommendations.