Wiener schnitzel, with its crispy golden crust and tender meat, shines on any dining table. Pairing it with the right sides enhances its flavor and turns a simple meal into a memorable experience. Traditional accompaniments like creamy potato salad, buttery spaetzle, or tangy lingonberry sauce complement the schnitzel’s savory taste perfectly.
Fresh vegetables, roasted or steamed, add balance and a burst of color, while a crisp green salad provides a refreshing contrast. Light sauces or lemon wedges can lift the flavors without overpowering the delicate breaded coating.
Exploring regional favorites, such as cucumber salad or sautéed mushrooms, introduces variety and authenticity. Every bite becomes more satisfying when textures, tastes, and aromas work together.
This guide helps you discover the best combinations and inspires you to serve wiener schnitzel with dishes that impress, satisfy, and celebrate the rich culinary tradition behind this classic Austrian favorite.
What to Eat with Wiener Schnitzel?
Wiener Schnitzel is a famous Austrian dish loved worldwide. It is a thin slice of veal or pork, coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown. The meat stays tender inside while the coating turns crisp and crunchy.
This contrast makes Wiener Schnitzel unique. Eating it with the right sides makes the meal complete and delicious.
Many traditional Austrian sides and modern options pair perfectly with Schnitzel. This guide explains the best foods, vegetables, sauces, and extras to serve alongside this dish.
Classic Potato Sides
Potatoes are the most popular choice with Wiener Schnitzel. They are versatile, easy to prepare, and pair naturally with fried meat.
Potato Salad
A traditional Austrian potato salad balances the richness of Schnitzel. Use boiled potatoes, slice them thin, and mix with a dressing of vinegar, oil, and a little mustard. Add finely chopped onions and fresh parsley for flavor. Warm potato salad makes the meal comforting, while cold potato salad offers a refreshing contrast.
Tip: Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes to keep the salad firm, not mushy.
French Fries
Crispy French fries provide a satisfying crunch that complements the soft Schnitzel. Cut potatoes evenly and fry until golden. Sprinkle salt or a pinch of paprika for extra flavor. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Roast Potatoes
Roast potatoes with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic create a savory side. Cut them into small cubes or wedges. Toss with oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at high heat until crispy on the outside and soft inside. These potatoes add aroma and richness to the plate.
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes contrast nicely with the crispy Schnitzel coating. Boil peeled potatoes until soft, mash with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt. A small sprinkle of nutmeg adds depth. Serve hot for a smooth, comforting texture.
Fresh and Tangy Vegetables
Vegetables give color, freshness, and balance to the heavy fried meat.
Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is light and crisp. Slice cucumbers thinly and toss with vinegar, a little sugar, salt, and pepper. Fresh dill or parsley adds aroma. This salad gives a refreshing taste and balances the richness of Schnitzel.
Steamed or Sautéed Vegetables
Green beans, carrots, zucchini, or peas work well. Steam or sauté them lightly with butter or olive oil. Avoid heavy sauces that cover the natural flavor. Simple vegetables add nutrition and color to the plate.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is fermented cabbage with a tangy taste. Serve slightly warm. Its sourness cuts through the richness of fried meat. Lightly season with caraway seeds or a little sugar for balance.
Mixed Green Salad
A small fresh salad with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and radishes gives a crisp, refreshing side. Dress lightly with olive oil and vinegar. It adds brightness and makes the meal lighter.
Sauces and Flavor Enhancers
Sauces add flavor without overpowering Wiener Schnitzel.
Lemon Wedges
A squeeze of fresh lemon over the Schnitzel brightens the flavor. The acidity cuts the oiliness of the fried coating. Serve extra wedges on the side.
Mushroom Sauce
Creamy mushroom sauce is a traditional choice in Austria. Cook fresh mushrooms with butter, garlic, and a splash of cream. Add salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Serve lightly so the crisp coating of the Schnitzel remains noticeable.
Cranberry or Lingonberry Sauce
Sweet and tart fruit sauces contrast nicely with the fried meat. Serve a small portion on the side. It works especially well with veal Schnitzel.
Gravy (Optional)
Light brown gravy can be served in small amounts. Avoid heavy, thick sauces. A drizzle enhances flavor without hiding the crispy texture.
Bread and Small Extras
Adding bread or small condiments improves the experience of a traditional meal.
Fresh Bread
A piece of crusty bread helps soak up sauces. Rye or white bread works well.
Pickles
Sour pickles or gherkins add crunch and acidity. They refresh the palate between bites of fried meat.
Herb Garnish
Parsley, chives, or dill sprinkled over the plate adds color and aroma. It makes the dish more appealing without adding heavy flavor.
Serving Tips
-
Serve Schnitzel immediately after frying. Crispiness fades if left to sit.
-
Arrange sides separately to keep textures distinct.
-
Use small portions of sauces; the meat should remain the focus.
-
For a traditional Austrian presentation, serve Schnitzel with a lemon wedge, potato salad, and cucumber salad on one plate.
Final Thoughts
Wiener Schnitzel pairs beautifully with a mix of potato dishes, fresh vegetables, and light sauces. Crisp, creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors create a balanced meal. Simple sides like potato salad, steamed vegetables, and lemon wedges enhance the main dish.
A few extra touches, like herbs or pickles, make the plate vibrant. Choosing fresh ingredients and keeping flavors light keeps the Schnitzel the star of the meal.
FAQs
1. Can Wiener Schnitzel be served with rice?
Yes, plain steamed rice or lightly buttered rice works. Avoid heavy sauces.
2. What drink matches Wiener Schnitzel best?
Light beer, white wine, or sparkling water pairs well. It refreshes the palate and complements the flavors.
3. How long can Schnitzel sit before serving?
Serve immediately for crispiness. If needed, keep in a warm oven for a few minutes.
4. Are there vegetarian options for Schnitzel?
Yes, use eggplant, mushrooms, or soy-based patties. Coat and fry like traditional Schnitzel.
5. Can Wiener Schnitzel be frozen?
Raw Schnitzel can be frozen before frying. Cooked Schnitzel loses crispness when frozen, so avoid freezing after frying.