Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. calf brain
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 4 slices white bread
- 4 tbsp. butter
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, mustard
Special equipment needed:
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Frying pan
- Spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the calf brain under cold water and remove any membranes or blood vessels. Cut into small pieces.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs.
4. Dip each piece of calf brain into the milk and egg mixture, then coat in the flour mixture.
5. Heat the butter in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Once the butter is melted, add the coated calf brain pieces to the pan.
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove the fried calf brain from the pan and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
9. Toast the slices of white bread.
10. Assemble the sandwich by placing the fried calf brain on one slice of toast, and adding any desired toppings such as lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, or mustard.
11. Top with the remaining slice of toast.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat
Serving size:
4 sandwiches
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 500
Fat: 25g
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of calf brain, you can use pig or sheep brain.
- Instead of white bread, you can use wheat or sourdough bread.
Variations:
- Add sliced onions or pickles to the sandwich for extra flavor.
- Make a spicy mayo by mixing mayonnaise with hot sauce or sriracha.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to remove any membranes or blood vessels from the calf brain before cooking.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the brain into small pieces.
- Fry the calf brain in small batches to ensure even cooking.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftover fried calf brain in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the fried calf brain, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the sandwich on a plate with a side of fries or potato chips.
Garnishes:
Garnish the sandwich with a sprig of parsley or a slice of lemon.
Pairings:
Pair the sandwich with a cold beer or a glass of iced tea.
Suggested side dishes:
French fries, potato chips, coleslaw, or a side salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the calf brain is not crispy enough, increase the heat and fry for a few more minutes.
- If the calf brain is too tough, it may not have been cooked long enough.
Food safety advice:
- Always handle raw calf brain with care and wash your hands and utensils thoroughly after handling.
- Cook the calf brain to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Fried brain sandwiches are a popular dish in the Midwest United States, particularly in St. Louis, Missouri.
Flavor profiles:
The calf brain has a mild, creamy flavor that is enhanced by the crispy coating and any added toppings.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the sandwich hot and enjoy as a unique and flavorful meal.
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