Appetizer Pie

Liver, heart, and gizzard appetizer pie is a savory dish that combines tradition and the intense flavors of its ingredients. This recipe is perfect for serving at a festive meal or simply as an appetizer at a gathering with friends. With a beautiful dough and a rich filling, this dish is sure to impress with its taste and crunchy texture. Let's embark on this culinary journey together!

Preparation: 30 minutes
Baking: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons yogurt (or a small pack of Cremosso)
- 7-8 tablespoons oil
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 500 g chicken liver
- 500 g hearts and gizzards
- 2 small potatoes
- 4 eggs (for filling) + 1 egg for brushing
- Salt, pepper, and thyme (or other spices to taste)

Brief history

This appetizer pie has deep roots in traditional cuisine, often served at family gatherings and special occasions. Its origins are linked to the necessity of using available ingredients, transforming them into delicious and hearty dishes. Savory pies have become a symbol of hospitality and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.

Step by step

1. Preparing the dough
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step helps aerate the flour and achieve a lighter dough. Make a well in the center of the flour where you will add the other ingredients. Add the eggs, baking powder, yogurt, and oil. Season with a little salt.

Tip: Use natural yogurt for added moisture and to achieve a flakier dough. If desired, you can replace yogurt with sour cream for a richer flavor.

2. Kneading the dough
Mix the ingredients with a fork or by hand until a dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. Then, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This resting time will help the dough become easier to roll out.

3. Preparing the filling
While the dough is chilling, you can prepare the filling. Boil the liver, hearts, and gizzards in a pot of water. Change the water 3 times to remove impurities, ensuring you get a clean and flavorful filling.

Frequently asked question: Why is it important to change the water? This helps remove any unpleasant odors and achieve a purer taste.

4. Boiling the potatoes
In another pot, boil the two potatoes until soft. After they have cooled, peel them and cut them into small cubes. These will add a pleasant texture to the filling.

5. Preparing the composition
Once the liver, hearts, and gizzards are cooked, let them cool and chop them into cubes. Mix them in a large bowl with the diced potatoes, add salt, pepper, and thyme, then crack the 4 eggs on top to bind the mixture.

6. Assembling the pie
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two uneven parts. The larger part will be rolled out into a sheet large enough to cover the bottom and sides of a buttered tart pan. Add the liver filling evenly in the pan and then roll out the other part of the dough to cover the filling.

Serving suggestion: You can decorate the surface of the pie with a few slits to allow steam to escape during baking, and also to add a rustic look.

7. Baking the pie
Beat the egg designated for brushing and evenly brush the top of the pie. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the pie for 35-45 minutes or until golden and crispy on the edges.

Nutritional benefits

This pie is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken liver is an excellent source of protein, vitamins (especially vitamin A), and minerals. Hearts and gizzards provide extra iron, while potatoes offer complex carbohydrates, keeping your energy up throughout the day.

Calories: A serving of pie (approximately 100g) contains between 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment with the filling, you can replace chicken liver with ground pork or beef, adding vegetables such as carrots or peas for extra color and texture. You can also use cheese or mushrooms to add a different note.

What to serve alongside

This appetizer pie pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or flavored yogurt sauces. A bottle of dry white wine or a craft beer can complement the dish's flavor beautifully.

Finish your meals on a sweet note by opting for a quick dessert, such as a seasonal fruit tart or a chocolate mousse.

Now that you have all the necessary information, embark on this culinary adventure and enjoy your delicious pie! Bon appétit!