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DINNER

Crispy Paraguayan Milanesa with Golden Yuca Fries and Zesty Chimichurri

Transport your taste buds to Paraguay with this delightful meal featuring perfectly breaded and fried milanesa, accompanied by golden, crispy yuca fries (mandioca frita), and a bright, herbaceous chimichurri sauce. It's a satisfying and flavorful dish that's easier to make than you might think.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Prepare the chimichurri: In a small bowl, combine the chopped parsley, chopped oregano, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well and set aside to allow flavors to meld.

02

Prepare the mandioca: Place the peeled and cut mandioca in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until tender but not mushy. Drain well and pat dry.

03

Set up breading stations for the milanesa: Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in a second, and bread crumbs in a third. Season the flour and bread crumbs with salt and pepper.

04

Bread the milanesa: Dredge each pounded beef steak first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

05

Fry the mandioca: Heat 4 cups vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F/175°C. Fry the par-boiled mandioca in batches for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season immediately with salt.

06

Fry the milanesa: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F/190°C. Carefully place 1-2 breaded steaks into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining steaks.

07

Serve immediately: Arrange the crispy milanesa and mandioca frita on plates. Spoon a generous amount of fresh chimichurri over the milanesa and serve hot.

About This Recipe

Transport your taste buds to Paraguay with this delightful meal featuring perfectly breaded and fried milanesa, accompanied by golden, crispy yuca fries (mandioca frita), and a bright, herbaceous chimichurri sauce. It's a satisfying and flavorful dish that's easier to make than you might think.
Crispy Paraguayan Milanesa with Golden Yuca Fries and Zesty Chimichurri
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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♨

Chef's Tips

For extra tender milanesa, pound the beef very thin, about 1/4 inch thick. Ensure the oil temperature is correct for frying; too low will result in greasy food, too high will burn the outside before the inside cooks.
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Easy Substitutions

Chicken or pork cutlets can be used instead of beef for the milanesa. If mandioca is unavailable, thick-cut potato fries can be a substitute. For a milder chimichurri, reduce the red pepper flakes.
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Storage & Reheating

Leftover milanesa and mandioca frita are best stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat milanesa in an oven at 350°F/175°C for 10-15 minutes to restore crispness. Mandioca can be reheated in an air fryer or oven. Chimichurri should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A side of white rice can also complement the meal. For a complete Paraguayan experience, pair with a refreshing glass of tereré (cold mate tea).

Common Mistakes

Overcrowding the frying pan leads to lower oil temperature and soggy milanesa or mandioca. Not patting the mandioca dry after boiling can cause oil splattering and less crispy results. Pounding the meat too thick will result in a less tender milanesa. Not seasoning the flour and breadcrumbs will lead to bland milanesa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake the milanesa instead of frying?

While frying yields the crispiest result, you can bake milanesa at 400°F/200°C for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.

What if I can't find fresh mandioca?

Frozen pre-cut yuca fries can be used; follow package instructions for par-boiling if necessary, then fry as directed.

Can I make the chimichurri spicier?

Yes, you can add more red pepper flakes or a finely minced fresh chili pepper to the chimichurri for extra heat.

How do I know if my oil is hot enough for frying?

You can use a kitchen thermometer. If you don't have one, a small piece of breading should sizzle immediately when dropped into the oil.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to a truly crispy milanesa is a good breading technique and proper oil temperature. Make sure each piece of meat is fully coated in breadcrumbs, and don't overcrowd your frying pan, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy results. For the mandioca, par-boiling ensures a tender interior before frying for a crispy exterior. The chimichurri can be made a day ahead to allow the flavors to deepen.
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