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Pork Shoulder Cutlets with Fennel and Asparagus Salad

These crispy pork shoulder cutlets offer a sophisticated twist on a classic schnitzel. By using pork shoulder, the meat remains succulent and flavourful beneath a perfectly golden, crunchy breadcrumb coating. Paired with a vibrant salad of shaved asparagus and thinly sliced fennel, this dish balances rich textures with a clean, citrusy finish. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a fresh yet satisfying meal that feels elevated enough for a weekend dinner.

As a high-protein main course, this recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious. The inclusion of raw fennel and asparagus ribbons provides a delightful crunch and a host of vitamins, making it a healthy option for active households. Serve it simply with extra lemon wedges to cut through the savoury notes of the pork for a bright, seasonal feast.

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Ingredients for Pork Shoulder Cutlets with Fennel and Asparagus Salad

  • 575g boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt), fat trimmed to 1/4", cut into 4 steaks

  • 90g plain flour

  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

  • 190g dried breadcrumbs

  • 2 tablespoons cornflour

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 180ml vegetable oil

  • Flaky sea salt

  • 1 small fennel bulb, cored, thinly sliced, plus 2 tablespoons fennel fronds

  • 6 asparagus, shaved lengthwise into ribbons with a vegetable peeler

  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, plus lemon wedges for serving

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Pound pork steaks between 2 layers of plastic wrap to 1/4" thick. Place flour in a shallow bowl. Lightly beat eggs in another shallow bowl. Toss breadcrumbs and cornflour in a third shallow bowl; season with kosher salt and pepper.

Working one at a time, season cutlets with kosher salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off excess. Transfer to bowl with egg and turn to coat. Lift from bowl, allowing excess to drip off. Coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Working in 2 batches, cook cutlets, shaking pan occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a wire rack; season with sea salt.

Combine fennel, fennel fronds, asparagus, onion, and parsley in a medium bowl. Toss with lemon juice and olive oil; season with kosher salt and pepper. Serve salad alongside cutlets with lemon wedges for squeezing over.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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