When it comes to Schnitzel, one of the most perplexing questions is what sauce pairs best with this dish?
Of course, there are multiple choices that can enhance and add flavor to the crispy exterior of this classic entrée, but knowing which one to choose can be a challenge.
To help you decide, it’s important to understand the history behind this popular item on our dinner tables.
Originating in Austria, Schnitzel traditionally has been paired with either a mushroom cream sauce or lingonberry jam.
Since its first conception centuries ago, people have experimented with other sauces such as tomato ketchup or BBQ-style condiments.
Ultimately, it comes down to individual preference and creativity that makes every plate of Schnitzel unique and delicious.
Why Consider Serving a Sauce with Schnitzel?
Dishes made of breaded proteins, such as schnitzel, are popular the world over.
There are many reasons to consider serving a sauce alongside your delicious schnitzel.
In addition to adding flavor and contrast to the crispy fried outer layer of the meat, a sauce can also help to keep the meat moist, avoiding dryness and bitterness that sometimes result when eating this type of dish.
The sauce you choose should complement the type of schnitzel you’re serving.
For instance, if your schnitzel is seasoned with lemon and herbs, you might opt for a light cream-based sauce with similar flavors; if you’ve added smoked paprika or curry powder to your coating mix, perhaps a tomato-based or spicy pepper salsa would be better suited.
This guide will explore twelve delicious sauces you could serve alongside your Schnitzel for an elevated meal that both looks and tastes great.
What Sauce Goes with Schnitzel? 12 BEST Options
Schnitzel is a classic, delicious entree made of thin, breaded cuts of meat or fish.
Traditionally, it’s fried to crisp perfection and served plain with a fresh lemon wedge.
But if you want to really elevate your schnitzel meal, you’ll need the perfect sauce pairing.
There are tons of sauces that pair well with schnitzel.
Here are 12 of the best:
1. Sweet and Sour Sauce
Sweet and Sour Sauce is a traditional German condiment made of sugar and vinegar, blended to create a sweet-tart, zesty flavor.
Sweet and Sour Sauce goes well with many types of meats, including chicken and pork.
Typically served warm, this sauce is tasty on schnitzel sandwiches or on top of the classic Weiner schnitzel.
For some additional flavor, add fresh herbs or chopped onions as desired.
This combination creates a unique sweet-sour blend with plenty of depth that pairs well with this classic German dish.
2. Barbecue Sauce
Barbecue sauce is a perfect condiment for schnitzel.
The tangy, smoky flavour of the sauce pairs perfectly with the crunchy coating of the fried meat.
Barbecue sauce is easy to make and can be customized according to your own tastes.
Try adding some diced onion or garlic before simmering the sauce for an extra layer of flavour.
Alternatively, you can use a high-quality store-bought barbecue sauce if you’re in a hurry.
For an even bigger flavour punch, top your schnitzel with slices of sharp cheddar cheese before drizzling on the barbecue sauce.
3. Hot Sauce
If you enjoy spicy food, then hot sauce is the perfect accompaniment for a schnitzel meal.
It can be any type of commercially available hot sauce, from classic tabasco sauce to more esoteric takes on this condiment.
Hot sauce is a great way to add some heat and flavor to a traditionally bland dish.
Alternatively, you could opt for sriracha or chili garlic paste, depending on what’s available in your area and the spice level you prefer.
If you enjoy making your own condiments at home, take that opportunity to make your own hot sauce with fresh chilies or dried pepper flakes as flavorful additions.
4. Salsa
Salsa is a great accompaniment to schnitzel, thanks to its tangy and spicy notes.
This condiment goes particularly well with chicken and veal schnitzel as it adds an extra layer of flavor that can make all the difference in a meal.
Salsa is easy to make at home, but you can also buy it ready made, which saves time.
To prepare this sauce for your schnitzel dish, simply mix salsa with a bit of salt and garlic powder to taste.
For those who aren’t big fans of spice, adding sour cream or yogurt helps tame the heat without compromising on flavor.
5. Teriyaki Sauce
If you’re looking for a savory and sweet sauce to accompany your schnitzel, teriyaki sauce is the perfect choice.
This thick, dark sauce is made from a combination of soy sauce and sugar that is simmered until it reaches the desired consistency.
While it’s commonly used as a marinade for meats, it can also be served as an accompaniment to dishes such as schnitzel.
Simply add some drained pineapple chunks and then drizzle over your dish before serving, adding intense flavor and sweetness.
6. White Sauce
White Sauce is a classic choice for Schnitzel.
With many variations, the base is typically a combination of butter and flour cooked in milk and/or cream which results in a thick and creamy sauce.
Depending on the region, additional herbs and spices such as nutmeg or paprika can be added to give the dish more flavor.
White sauces make an excellent accompaniment to crisp, golden Schnitzel because they provide a mild flavor that won’t overpower the delicate texture of the meat.
7. Cheese Sauce
Cheese sauce is an excellent accompaniment to schnitzel.
This creamy, cheesy sauce is incredibly easy to make and has a great flavor that’s perfect for pairing with the crisp texture of your fried chicken.
To prepare, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a small skillet over medium-high heat.
Once melted, add 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and mix until it forms into a paste.
Slowly add in one cup of milk while stirring and let the mixture simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Add 1/2 cup of grated cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately over your schnitzel for the best taste.
8. Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce is a great option for adding a heap of flavor and color to your schnitzel.
This classic accompaniment adds tangy sweetness to your dish.
Simply heat up some tomato sauce and pour it on top of the cooked schnitzel.
Add some herbs, like basil or oregano, to enhance the flavor even more and make your schnitzel look inviting.
Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for an unforgettable experience.
9. Aji Verde (Spicy Peruvian Green Sauce)
Aji verde is a popular spicy green sauce from Peru.
It can be used as a marinade or condiment and is often made with jalapenos, cilantro, garlic, onion, lime juice and mayonnaise.
This sauce can add a delicious spicy kick to traditional schnitzel.
Aji verde can be adapted to suit different tastes by controlling the amount of jalapeno peppers used and adding additional seasonings.
To make an authentic Peruvian version of this sauce, use serrano peppers instead of jalapenos for extra heat.
Adding roasted red peppers creates a milder flavor that still packs plenty of punch.
10. Ketchup
Ketchup is a classic, versatile condiment.
This red sauce can be made from tomatoes, pureed fruits or vegetables, spices, and vinegar.
It has become so popular that it is now used on foods of all cuisines all over the world.
Ketchup makes a good accompaniment to schnitzel since it helps to bring out the already savory flavor of the dish by adding a slight sweetness and extra acidity.
It also helps to cut through any greasiness while adding a bit of texture.
11. Homemade Yellow Mustard
Schnitzel is an Austrian dish that consists of lightly-breaded, pan-fried pork cutlets.
It’s a light and delicious meal but it can often benefit from the addition of a flavorful sauce.
A popular choice that complements the crisp texture of schnitzel is homemade yellow mustard.
This sharp, tangy condiment can be easily made at home with a few simple ingredients like Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, sugar and turmeric for color.
Mix the ingredients together in a small bowl until completely combined and your homemade yellow mustard is ready to be served with schnitzel.
It adds a satisfying zing that truly brings out the flavor of this classic dish.
12. Tartar Sauce
The ultimate classic condiment to serve with schnitzel, tartar sauce is a creamy combination of mayonnaise, pickles, capers and lemon juice.
Tartar sauce is perfect for crunchy fried cuts of meat, adding a delicate balance of tangy and savory flavors.
Try this creamy tartar sauce recipe that uses Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise to make it lighter and healthier.
Serve it with a side of fries or crispy schnitzel for an unforgettable meal.
Leave a comment