Pork Schnitzel With Dill Sauce, Classic Riesling, and The Tattooist of Auschwitz

For a delightful culinary and literary experience, pair the Pork Schnitzel with Dill Sauce with 'The Tattooist of Auschwitz' by Heather Morris, accompanied by a classic Riesling wine. The schnitzel's rich and comforting flavors contrast beautifully with the poignant and powerful storytelling of the book, which is set against the backdrop of World War II. The crisp and slightly sweet Riesling complements the dish while also providing a refreshing counterpoint to the intense and emotional narrative of Morris's work. Together, this trio offers a memorable evening of remarkable flavors and storytelling.
Pork Schnitzel With Dill Sauce

Ingredients

For the Pork Schnitzel:

  • 4 boneless pork chops, pounded thin (about 1/4 inch thick)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil or clarified butter, for frying

For the Dill Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Pork Schnitzel:

  • Season the pounded pork chops with salt and black pepper on both sides.
  • Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with paprika and Parmesan cheese (if using).

Bread the Pork:

  • Dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess.
  • Dip the floured pork chop into the beaten eggs, coating it evenly.
  • Finally, press the pork chop into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Set aside on a plate.

Cook the Schnitzel:

  • Heat the vegetable oil or clarified butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Once the oil is hot, add the breaded pork chops, cooking them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  • Fry the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the schnitzel to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Make the Dill Sauce:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped dill, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
  • Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serve:

  • Serve the Pork Schnitzel hot, topped with a generous spoonful of the dill sauce.
  • Garnish with extra fresh dill or lemon wedges if desired.

The Tattooist of Auschwitz

The Tattooist of Auschwitz

The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a historical novel that tells the incredible true story of Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew who is imprisoned at the Auschwitz concentration camp. He is forced to tattoo numbers onto his fellow prisoners’ arms. One day, he meets a trembling woman waiting in line to be tattooed; her name is Gita, and in that moment, Lale vows to survive the camp and marry her.
As the first transport from Slovakia makes its way to Auschwitz concentration camp in 1942, Lale Sokolov immediately stands out to the other prisoners for his composed appearance and outwardly assured manner. In the camp, he is looked up to, looked out for and put to work in the privileged position of Tätowierer – tattooist – marking his fellow inmates with their identification numbers, forever. One of them is a young woman, Gita, who steals his heart at first glance. His life given new purpose, Lale does his best through the struggle and suffering to use his position for good. This story, full of beauty and hope, is based on years of interviews author Heather Morris conducted with real-life Holocaust survivor and Auschwitz-Birkenau tattooist Ludwig (Lale) Sokolov. It is heart-wrenching, illuminating, and unforgettable. 'Morris climbs into the dark miasma of war and emerges with an extraordinary tale of the power of love' – Leah Kaminsky

Discussion Questions

  • What does this book teach us about hope and resilience?
  • How do Lale's skills as a tattooist both protect and endanger him?
  • In what ways does the book portray the complexity of moral choices in times of oppression?
  • Discuss the role of love in maintaining identity and humanity under oppressive conditions.
  • How does the author balance historical accuracy with narrative fiction?
  • What are your thoughts on the portrayal of the camp guards and officials?
  • How does the book depict camaraderie amidst suffering?
  • What is the significance of the tattoos in the novel, beyond their immediate purpose?
  • How does the relationship between Lale and Gita evolve throughout the book?
  • Reflect on how the book impacts your understanding of history.
  • What can modern society learn from the experiences shared in the book?
Authors: Heather Morris
ISBN: 9780062797155
Publisher: Bonnier Zaffre Ltd.
Published Date: 2018-02-01

Classic Riesling

Classic Riesling
A crisp and slightly sweet wine, Riesling is a perfect companion to German dishes. Its balanced acidity and vibrant fruit flavors wonderfully complement the savory and tangy elements of Pork Schnitzel with Dill Sauce, providing a refreshing finish to each bite.

Ingredients

  • 750ml bottle of Riesling wine

Instructions

  • Chill the Riesling to 8-10°C (46-50°F) before serving.
  • Pour into a wine glass.
  • Enjoy alongside your meal.