National Wiener Schnitzel Day, observed annually on September 9th, is a delicious celebration of one of Austria’s most famous culinary exports. This day honors the crispy, golden-brown breaded veal cutlet that has become a beloved dish not only in its native Austria but around the world.
History of National Wiener Schnitzel Day
The origins of National Wiener Schnitzel Day are not as well-documented as the dish itself, but it likely emerged as a way to celebrate and promote this iconic Austrian cuisine. Wiener Schnitzel, which literally translates to “Viennese cutlet,” has a history dating back to the 19th century. While similar breaded meat dishes existed in various cultures, the specific preparation method of Wiener Schnitzel is credited to the Austrians.
Legend has it that Field Marshal Joseph Radetzky brought the recipe to Vienna from Italy in 1857, though this claim is disputed by food historians. The dish quickly became popular in Vienna and throughout the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
As Austrian and German immigrants settled in the United States, they brought their culinary traditions with them, including Wiener Schnitzel. The establishment of a national day to celebrate this dish in the U.S. reflects its integration into American culinary culture.
While the exact date of the first National Wiener Schnitzel Day is unclear, it has become an annual tradition celebrated by food enthusiasts, Austrian-American communities, and restaurants specializing in Central European cuisine.
The day serves not only to honor the dish itself but also to celebrate the cultural exchange that occurs through food and to recognize the contributions of Austrian immigrants to American gastronomy.
Ideas to Celebrate National Wiener Schnitzel Day
Celebrating National Wiener Schnitzel Day is all about indulging in this classic Austrian dish and exploring its cultural significance. The most obvious way to celebrate is by enjoying a perfectly prepared Wiener Schnitzel, either at home or at an authentic Austrian or German restaurant.
For those feeling culinary adventurous, attempting to make Wiener Schnitzel from scratch can be a rewarding experience. It’s an opportunity to learn about the traditional preparation methods and the importance of technique in achieving the perfect crispy texture.
Beyond eating, the day can be an occasion to delve into Austrian culture, perhaps by watching Austrian films, listening to classical Viennese music, or learning about the country’s history.
- Host an Austrian-themed dinner party featuring Wiener Schnitzel as the main course
- Attend a cooking class specializing in Austrian cuisine
- Visit a local Austrian or German bakery to pair your Schnitzel with authentic pastries
- Organize a Wiener Schnitzel tasting event with variations from different restaurants
- Learn about wine pairings for Wiener Schnitzel and host a wine tasting alongside the meal
The Art of Making Perfect Wiener Schnitzel
Creating the perfect Wiener Schnitzel is considered an art form in Austrian cuisine. The traditional recipe calls for a thin cut of veal, pounded even thinner to ensure quick and even cooking. The meat is then dredged in flour, dipped in beaten eggs, and coated with fine breadcrumbs before being fried to golden perfection. The key to authentic Wiener Schnitzel lies in several crucial techniques.
First, the meat must be pounded thin enough to cook quickly without drying out. Second, the breadcrumb coating should be applied gently to create a light, crispy texture rather than a heavy crust. Third, the schnitzel should be fried in enough oil or clarified butter (traditionally lard) to “swim,” allowing it to puff up and create its characteristic wavy texture.
A properly prepared Wiener Schnitzel should be golden brown, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, with no greasiness. Traditionally, it’s served with a slice of lemon and accompanied by potato salad, cucumber salad, or lingonberry jam. While veal is the traditional meat used, variations using pork (often called Schnitzel Wiener Art) or chicken have become popular, especially outside of Austria.
The technique of preparing Wiener Schnitzel has influenced similar dishes around the world, from Japanese tonkatsu to American chicken-fried steak.
Wiener Schnitzel’s Cultural Significance
Wiener Schnitzel holds a special place in Austrian culture, serving as both a national dish and a symbol of Viennese cuisine. Its importance is such that the name “Wiener Schnitzel” is protected by law in Austria and Germany, requiring that it be made from veal to bear the name.
This legal protection underscores the dish’s cultural significance and the pride Austrians take in their culinary heritage. Beyond its role in Austrian cuisine, Wiener Schnitzel has become a culinary ambassador, introducing people around the world to a taste of Austrian culture. In many countries, it’s one of the first dishes people associate with Austrian food, often served in restaurants alongside other Central European specialties.
The dish’s popularity has led to numerous variations and adaptations in different cultures, demonstrating its versatility and appeal. In the United States, Wiener Schnitzel has found its way into the culinary landscape, particularly in areas with significant German and Austrian immigrant populations.
National Wiener Schnitzel Day serves as a reminder of this cultural exchange, celebrating not just a dish, but the way food can bridge cultures and create shared experiences.
It’s a day that invites people to explore Austrian cuisine and history, fostering an appreciation for culinary traditions that have traveled across oceans and generations.