Chicken pâté with orange marmalade

Chicken Pâté with Orange Marmalade – a Sophisticated and Savory Appetizer

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8

In the culinary world, few dishes manage to combine elegance with simplicity as effectively as chicken pâté. This recipe for chicken pâté with orange marmalade not only impresses with its refined taste but is also a healthier choice than commercial variants, being made from fresh ingredients and free of additives. Whether for a party, a festive dinner, or simply a relaxing evening at home, this appetizer will add a touch of elegance to your table.

The history of pâté is fascinating, with its roots deeply embedded in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Over time, pâté has been an ingenious way to utilize every part of the meat, transforming simple ingredients into gastronomic delights. Today, we will focus on a chicken pâté, adding a special touch with the help of orange marmalade, which will provide a sweet and tangy contrast, perfect for tantalizing the taste buds.

The ingredients needed for this chicken pâté are simple yet of high quality:

- 450g chicken liver (choose fresh liver, preferably from free-range birds)
- 110g butter (make sure it’s of good quality, as it will influence the pâté’s texture)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (either fresh or dried, depending on your preference)
- 1 tablespoon of mustard (preferably Dijon for a more complex flavor)
- salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of orange marmalade (choose a marmalade with fruit pieces for a more interesting texture)

Now that we have the ingredients ready, let’s get to work!

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion and garlic. Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand to facilitate the cooking process.

Step 2: Cooking the liver
In a skillet over low heat, melt 110g of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the garlic and chicken liver. Sauté the liver until golden and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. It’s important not to overcook the liver, as it will lose its juiciness.

Step 3: Blending the pâté
Transfer the liver mixture, onion, and garlic to a blender. Add 55g of the remaining butter, mustard, salt, and pepper to taste. Blend until you achieve a smooth and homogeneous paste. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Shaping the pâté
Transfer the pâté to a small loaf pan or a plastic container. Ensure it is evenly distributed. Melt the remaining butter and pour it over the pâté to create a delicious crust and prevent drying.

Step 5: Chilling
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the pâté is firm. This step is essential to allow the flavors to meld and achieve the perfect texture.

Step 6: Serving
Once the pâté has set, carefully invert it onto a serving platter. Neatly spread the orange marmalade on top, which will add a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast of flavors.

To serve, slice the pâté and place it on toasted bread. This will create a perfect combination of textures – crunchy and creamy.

Helpful tips:
- If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, feel free to add more garlic during cooking.
- You can experiment with different types of marmalade, such as apricot or peach, to provide a different note.
- This pâté pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or homemade lemonade, which will balance the rich flavors of the appetizer.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken liver is an excellent source of protein and is rich in vitamins such as A, B12, iron, and zinc. When consumed in moderation, chicken pâté can be a healthy choice within a balanced diet.

Calories:
Each serving of chicken pâté contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the amount of butter used and the type of bread chosen for serving.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can chicken pâté be preserved?
Yes, chicken pâté can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for later use, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best flavors.

2. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted using duck or turkey liver, each bringing a unique flavor.

3. Is it suitable for vegans?
This recipe is not suitable for vegans, but there are plant-based alternatives for pâtés that use legumes or nuts.

In short, chicken pâté with orange marmalade is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that will add a touch of refinement to your meal. Experiment, personalize, and enjoy every bite!