Schnitzel is a super popular dish in Germany. There are many varieties of Schnitzels that you can find on menus. My favorite? The Jägerschnitzel!
Jägerschnitzel consists of breaded and fried pork or veal cutlets, like you’d be used to with other types of Schnitzel. The difference is that it’s served with a rich mushroom sauce known as “Jägersoße” or “hunter’s sauce.”
The sauce typically includes mushrooms, onions, wine, and cream or broth, creating a savory blend that complements the crispy texture of the schnitzel. This hearty meal is often accompanied by side dishes such as potatoes, spaetzle, or red cabbage, making it a comforting and satisfying option in German cuisine.
But if you can’t wait until you are in Germany, how can you make Jägerschnitzel at home? Keep reading for a fabulous recipe that will have you munching on a delicious Jägerschnitzel in no time!
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History Of Jägerschnitzel
Jägerschnitzel, also known as “Hunter’s Schnitzel,” is a classic dish rooted in German culinary traditions. Its origins date back to the 19th century, developing as a hearty meal suitable for hunters and those spending long days in the forests.
The name “jager” means hunter in German, reflecting its rustic beginnings. The dish traditionally consists of a breaded and fried pork or veal cutlet, served with a robust mushroom sauce, which is often made using readily available wild mushrooms. This combination of tender meat with earthy mushroom flavors was designed to offer nourishment and comfort after a long day outdoors.
Over the years, Jägerschnitzel has evolved and spread beyond Germany, finding its way into Austrian cuisine and other parts of Europe. Variations of the dish can feature different types of meat, including chicken, and the mushroom sauce may be enriched with cream, bacon, onions, or herbs to create diverse regional flavors.
Despite these adaptations, the core of Jägerschnitzel remains true to its origins, celebrating the bounty of the forest and the enduring appeal of simple, satisfying food. Today, it is a staple in German restaurants around the world and a beloved home-cooked meal, cherished for its rich history and comforting taste.
Jägerschnitzel Recipe
There are two parts to making Jägerschnitzel – the Schnitzel and the sauce.
You can find our full guide to Schnitzels and how to make them here.
In the rest of this article, we are purely focused on the delicious sauce. There are different versions of the sauce with the primary option being whether you want a browner sauce and a creamier sauce (with cream).
In the video below, you’ll find out exactly how to make your Brown Jager Sauce.
If you’d prefer a creamier sauce, watch the following video.
I hope you now know how to enjoy a yummy Jägerschnitzel and are all set to cook it soon.
Want to learn more about German food? Find our guide to the best dinner dishes here and our recipe for German Goulash here. You can also find all our German food articles here.
