Parmegiana
Breaded steak topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, served with rice and fries.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Primo
The dish as described, featuring breaded steak topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, served with rice and fries, is heavily influenced by Italian-American cuisine (Parmigiana) but adapted and localized in South American countries, particularly Argentina and Brazil. The Italian influence stems from large waves of Italian immigration to these countries in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where Italian immigrants adapted their traditional recipes to local ingredients and tastes. The combination with rice and fries is a very common addition from South American cuisine.
Parmegiana is a popular and comforting dish often enjoyed as a family meal in Argentina and Brazil. It is also commonly found in restaurants and 'bodegones' (traditional Argentine eateries) as well as Brazilian 'botecos' (informal bars).
Family Meal
Parmegiana is frequently prepared and enjoyed during family gatherings, symbolizing togetherness and shared enjoyment of good food.
Restaurant Staple
It is a common dish on restaurant menus, representing a familiar and reliable option for diners.
Comfort Food
The combination of familiar flavors and satisfying textures makes it a quintessential comfort food.
The Parmegiana dish is a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors. It balances the richness of the fried steak with the acidity of the tomato sauce and the creamy, melty mozzarella.
The dominant flavor is the savory taste of the breaded and fried steak, which provides a hearty foundation. The tomato sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet counterpoint, while the melted mozzarella cheese contributes a creamy richness and a mild, milky flavor. The breading of the steak provides a textural contrast and slight nutty flavor. The rice is a mild carbohydrate that rounds out the main ingredients and absorbs the sauce. The fries provide another textural element with its crispy, salty taste.
Steak Preparation
Use a tender cut of beef (e.g., sirloin or round steak) and pound it thinly for even cooking and tenderness. Season the breading generously with herbs and spices for added flavor.
Tomato Sauce Quality
Use a high-quality tomato sauce, either homemade or a premium store-bought variety, for the best flavor. Simmer the sauce with garlic, onions, and herbs to enhance its complexity.
Cheese Selection
Fresh mozzarella provides the best flavor and melt. Low-moisture mozzarella can also be used, but ensure it melts evenly.
Crispy Fries
Double-fry the fries for extra crispness. Soak the cut potatoes in cold water before frying to remove excess starch.
Rice Texture
Cook the rice so that it is fluffy and not sticky. A long grain rice is best.
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