Quinoa Crusted Schnitzel with Creamed Corn Gnocchi
Inspired by Donna Hay Magazine October 2015 issue.
Inspired by Donna Hay Magazine October 2015 issue.
- 2 tablespoons butter
- pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- kosher salt + pepper
- 1/2 cup flour
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa
- 3 eggs (beaten)
- juice from half a lemon
- 2 cloves garlic (minced or grated)
- 4 thinly cut or pounded chicken breasts
- 6-8 leaves fresh sage
- 1 pound mini potato gnocchi (i use delallo)
- 3 ears yellow corn (kernels removed from the cob)
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (or shredded cheddar cheese)
- fresh arugula or microgreens (for serving)
- Carbohydrate 187.946325003187 g
- Cholesterol 244.285000208123 mg
- Fat 95.1156250647112 g
- Fiber 11.8379998397827 g
- Protein 24.3050000025382 g
- Saturated Fat 51.2890600390934 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1081g)
- Sodium 779.730000183452 mg
- Sugar 176.108325163405 g
- Trans Fat 12.10670500363 g
- Calories 1681 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F.
- Place the quinoa and bread crumbs in a shallow bowl. Add the flour to another shallow bowl and the eggs to another.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Working with one piece of chicken at a time, dredge the chicken through the flour and then shake off any excess.
- Dip the chicken through the egg and then dredge through the quinoa, allowing any excess to fall back into the bowl.
- Place on a plate and repeat with the remaining chicken.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of the butter and 1 tablespoon of the olive oil.
- Add 2 pieces of chicken and cook 3-4 minutes per side or until the quinoa is lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the pan and place on a baking sheet, sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
- Repeat with the remaining 2 pieces of chicken.
- Once all the chicken has been cooked, fry the sage in the pan for about 30 seconds or until crisp.
- Place the chicken in the oven to stay warm while you make the gnocchi.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, boil the gnocchi according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter.
- Add the corn and garlic, cook 5 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant and the corn is golden.
- Add the gnocchi to the pan and toss to combine.
- Slowly pour in the cream and cook until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cheese and basil.
- Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice, serve alongside the gnocchi.
- Garnish with greens and fried sage.
Quinoa Crusted Schnitzel with Creamed Corn Gnocchi: A Culinary Adventure
As a busy professional, finding time to cook delicious and satisfying meals can feel like a Herculean task. But even amidst the chaos of deadlines and meetings, I crave comfort food that nourishes both my body and soul. That’s where this Quinoa Crusted Schnitzel with Creamed Corn Gnocchi comes in. It's a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease, sophistication and simplicity. It's a dish that makes me feel like I'm indulging in a fine-dining experience, all while knowing I haven’t spent hours slaving away in the kitchen.
The inspiration for this dish initially came from a magazine – a quick glance at a recipe sparked a desire to create something similar, yet unique. The crunchy quinoa crust adds an unexpected twist to the classic schnitzel, offering a delightful textural contrast to the tender chicken. The corn gnocchi, creamy and comforting, is the perfect foil to the crisp schnitzel. The whole dish is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, a delightful symphony on my plate.
The magic of quinoa: Quinoa, a complete protein, provides a healthy and satisfying base for the crust. It adds a nutty flavor and a pleasing crunch, far exceeding the usual breadcrumb crust. The breadcrumb addition provides a wonderful balance, ensuring a perfectly textured crust that's not too dry.
The heart of the dish: The chicken schnitzel is the star, cooked to perfection with a delicate balance of crispy exterior and juicy interior. The simple seasoning allows the natural flavor of the chicken to shine through.
The creamy delight: The creamed corn gnocchi is a culinary adventure in itself. The sweetness of the corn blends seamlessly with the richness of the cream and the tang of the blue cheese (or cheddar, if that’s your preference). The addition of fresh basil adds a vibrant, herbaceous note, elevating the dish to a whole new level.
Beyond the plate: This dish isn't just about the taste; it’s about the experience. I often find myself savoring the quiet moments while preparing it, chopping the vegetables, listening to my favorite music. The process itself is therapeutic. The aroma filling the kitchen as the chicken sizzles and the gnocchi simmers is intoxicating. It's more than just a meal; it's a moment of self-care, a mindful escape from the demands of daily life.
Adaptability is key: This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or even vegetables. Add some sun-dried tomatoes to the gnocchi for a burst of intense flavor, or substitute the chicken with pork for a richer taste. The possibilities are endless, making it a perfect canvas for culinary creativity. And let's not forget the presentation! A simple garnish of fresh arugula or microgreens elevates the dish, adding a touch of visual appeal.
More than a meal, it's a memory: This Quinoa Crusted Schnitzel with Creamed Corn Gnocchi isn’t just a recipe; it's a story. It's a story of busy days and relaxing evenings, of finding joy in the simplicity of good food, and of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones (or enjoying it all by myself!). It's a testament to the power of food to nourish not only the body but also the soul. It is a recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen, a delicious and comforting friend in the midst of my fast-paced life. And I hope it becomes one for you too.
A culinary journey awaits: So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and embark on this culinary adventure. Let the aroma guide you, the flavors surprise you, and the experience leave you feeling satisfied and fulfilled. The journey is just as rewarding as the destination, and this recipe promises a delicious journey indeed.
