Cutlets are one of the most popular dishes and it seems that everyone should be able to cook them. But the cooking process has too many subtleties and nuances.
For example, experienced housewives add bread crumbs to minced meat. And they do this not to save meat, as many people think, but for a completely different reason.
Why is there bread in cutlets?
In addition to saving meat, bread crumb has several important properties:
1. Absorbs excess moisture. If the mince is runny, the bread crumb will absorb excess moisture and give the mass density, which will make frying easier.
2. Acts as a binding element. Thanks to the gluten contained in flour products, the minced meat particles stick together, the cutlet takes and holds the desired shape more easily.
3. Adds softness. Cutlets made from pure meat are too dense and tough, and bread gives them fluffiness and tenderness.
4. Retains juices. During heat treatment, products (meat, onions) release juice. Bread absorbs it, so the maximum taste and aroma is retained inside the cutlet.
It is best to take white bread that has been lying for 2-3 days and has lost its freshness. To make the cutlet mass more tender and soft, it is recommended to pre-soak the white bread in milk. Provided that it is not added to absorb excess moisture.
Other secrets of delicious cutlets
Here are some secrets that will help you prepare delicious and juicy cutlets:
1. Choose the right meat. To get tasty cutlets, choose meat with a small amount of fat.
2. Add raw potatoes. Adding finely grated raw potatoes will help make the dish juicier and softer.
3. Use eggs correctly. Eggs are an important ingredient that helps bind the meat mass and make the cutlets denser. One egg is enough for 500 g of meat. But remember: eggs make the cutlets tougher. If there is a lot of meat in the mince and few additional ingredients, there is no need to add eggs. Such cutlets hold their shape well and are dense on their own.
4. Add breadcrumbs. Breadcrumbs help give the cutlets texture, replacing the bread crumb. Add a few tablespoons of breadcrumbs to the mince and mix well. This ingredient is ideal for liquid mince.
5. Do not overcook. It is enough to fry on each side until golden brown. This way the cutlets will remain juicy and tender to taste.
By following these secrets, you can cook delicious and juicy cutlets that your family and guests will love. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and spices to create your own unique recipe.
