Montenegrin-style Breaded Alpaca Cutlets

Ingredients

In the original Peruvian dish, Apanado de alpaca, the alpaca meat is typically marinated in Peruvian spices and coated in breadcrumbs before being fried. However, in this Montenegrin adaptation, we use a blend of Montenegrin spices to infuse the meat with a unique flavor profile. Additionally, the dish is served with traditional Montenegrin accompaniments such as mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. We alse have the original recipe for Apanado de alpaca, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) alpaca meat, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) alpaca meat, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Add the thinly sliced alpaca meat to the bowl and coat it evenly with the spice mixture. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In separate bowls, place the beaten eggs and breadcrumbs.
4. 4.
   Dip each marinated alpaca slice into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
5. 5.
   Then, coat the alpaca slice with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the meat.
6. 6.
   Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
7. 7.
   Fry the breaded alpaca cutlets for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. 8.
   Remove the cutlets from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. 9.
   Serve the Montenegrin-style Breaded Alpaca Cutlets hot with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Alpaca meat — Alpaca meat is lean and tender, but it can become tough if overcooked. Make sure to cook the cutlets for the recommended time to maintain their tenderness.
• Paprika — Choose a high-quality paprika for the best flavor. Smoked paprika can add an extra depth of smokiness to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy coating, double coat the alpaca cutlets by dipping them in the beaten eggs and breadcrumbs twice.
• If alpaca meat is not available, you can substitute it with lean beef or veal.
• Serve the cutlets with a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing tang.

Serving advice

Serve the Montenegrin-style Breaded Alpaca Cutlets hot as a main course. Accompany them with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown cutlets on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes and a colorful salad to create an appealing and appetizing presentation.