Aldie's Veal Chop with Arugula and Tomatoes

One at a time, using a thin sharp knife, cut a slit into the side of the meaty part of each chop, about 3 inches long and 1-inch deep, being careful not to cut all the way through to the bone. Gently open out the chop so the meat surface is about twice as wide as before. Place the chop between 2 large pieces of plastic wrap on a work surface. Using a flat meat mallet, pound the meat until 1/4-inch thick.

Season both sides of each chop with 1/2 teaspoon of the Essence. Combine the flour with 1 tablespoon of the Essence in a shallow bowl. Put the bread crumbs in another shallow bowl and season with the remaining 1 tablespoon Essence. Combine the eggs and milk in another shallow bowl and whisk to blend .

Dredge the chops in the seasoned flour and shake off excess. Dip in the egg wash , and then coat both sides with the bread crumbs . Set on a baking sheet.

Heat the clarified butter in a large heavy nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Two at a time, add the chops and cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Cut into a chop at the bone to check for doneness—they should be barely pink. Using a slotted spatula , transfer the chops to a baking sheet and keep warm in the oven while you cook the other chops.

Meanwhile, toss the arugula , tomatoes, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

Place a chop on each plate. Mound a portion of the arugula salad on top of each chop , and serve with a lemon wedge on the side. Combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Yield: 2/3 cup Recipe from "New New Orleans Cooking", by Emeril Lagasse and Jessie Tirsch