A good schnitzel starts with a nice, crispy crust, but the spices are just as important. The right spice mix gives the meat a full, savory flavor without overpowering it. The nice thing is that you can very easily make schnitzel spices yourself with herbs and spices that many people already have at home.
In this blog we show which spices go well with schnitzel, how to make a balanced spice mix yourself and how best to use it.
New to making schnitzel? Read our comprehensive guide first 'How do you make a perfect schnitzel?'. Want to know afterwards how to get a crispy breading? Also check out 'Breading schnitzel: how to keep it crispy'.
Which spices do you use for schnitzel?
A classic schnitzel has a mild, spiced flavor where the meat remains central. That is why a combination of warm spices and aromatic herbs is usually chosen.
The most used spices are:
For extra depth you can add small amounts of:
- nutmeg;
- mace;
- ground mustard
- cayenne pepper (for a spicy variant).
Recipe: make schnitzel spices yourself
With the ratio below you make about 50 grams of spice mix.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons paprika powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley.
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
Preparation
Mix all the spices well together and store the spice mix in an airtight spice jar. In a dark, dry place the mix will keep for several months.
How much spice do you need?
For a nicely seasoned schnitzel usually the following is sufficient:
- about 1 to 2 teaspoons of spice mix per schnitzel;
- or 2 to 3 teaspoons per 500 grams of meat.
Season both sides of the meat before you start breading. This way the flavor is not only in the crust but also in the meat itself.
Should there be salt in schnitzel spices?
That is a personal choice.
Many ready-made spice mixes contain relatively a lot of salt. By making your spice mix yourself you determine exactly how much salt you use, or you can leave it out completely. That way you taste the pure flavor of the spices and can finish the dish to your own taste.
Which spices work well in the breading?
You can also mix a small portion of the spices into the breadcrumbs.
Good combinations are:
- paprika powder;
- garlic powder;
- dried parsley;
- Parmesan cheese;
- lemon zest;
- Italian herbs.
Do not use too many spices in the breadcrumbs. Most of the flavor should be in the meat itself.
Variations on schnitzel spices
With a few small adjustments you give each schnitzel its own character.
1. Classic
Paprika, black pepper, white pepper, garlic and parsley.
2. Spicy
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
3. Mediterranean
4. German-inspired
Use a bit of extra nutmeg and ground mustard
for a warm, spiced flavor.
Why does every schnitzel spice mix look different?
The final color and texture of a homemade schnitzel spice mix depend on the herbs and spices you use. For example, if you add more paprika powder, the mix will get a warmer reddish-brown color. If you use more garlic and onion powder, the spice mix will become lighter in color. The grind also plays a role: finely ground spices create a smooth mixture, while coarser ground spices and dried parsley give a coarser texture. That is perfectly normal and does not affect the quality or flavor of the spice mix.
Make yourself or ready-made?
Making schnitzel spices yourself is simple and you can tailor the flavor completely to your own preference. Moreover, you only use herbs and spices that you like.
Have less time or looking for consistent quality? Then a ready-made spice mix is a convenient solution.
The tastiest spices for schnitzel
A good schnitzel starts with quality spices. At Natural Spices you will find a wide range of herbs and spices, from paprika powder and pepper to garlic powder, onion powder and mustard powder. Ideal for putting together a schnitzel spice mix yourself or to give your favorite recipes even more flavor.
View our range of herbs and spices and order easily online.
Also for hospitality and food professionals
Do you use large quantities of spices in a professional kitchen? Natural Spices also supplies spices, herbs and spice mixes in bulk packaging breadcrumbs for hospitality, butchers, caterers, meal producers and other food professionals. Thanks to our consistent quality and wide range of packaging options you always have the right spices in stock.
Read more about schnitzel?
Want to learn step by step how to make a perfect schnitzel? Also read:
And want to know how to get a light, crispy breading that doesn't come off? Also check out:
Together these articles form a complete guide to making the perfect homemade schnitzel.
Conclusion
Making schnitzel spices yourself is simple and gives you all the freedom to adjust the flavor to your preference. With a balanced combination of paprika powder, pepper, garlic, onion and parsley you give every schnitzel a delicious, classic taste. Whether you choose a traditional pork schnitzel or a chicken schnitzel from the airfryer, a good spice mix makes the difference.
Frequently asked questions
1. Which spices belong in schnitzel spices?
Paprika powder, black pepper, white pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and dried parsley form the basis of a classic schnitzel spice mix.
2. When do you season a schnitzel?
Season the meat before you start breading. That way not only the crust but also the meat itself gets more flavor.
3. Can I omit salt?
Yes. By making schnitzel spices yourself you decide whether and how much salt you add.
4. Can you also use schnitzel spices for chicken?
Certainly. This spice mix is excellent for chicken schnitzel, turkey, pork and even for breaded vegetables like celeriac or cauliflower.
5. How long does homemade schnitzel spice keep?
Store the spice mix in a well-sealed jar in a cool, dry and dark place. This way it will generally remain flavorful for 6 to 12 months. Of course: the fresher the spices, the more intense the flavor.
