Chicken liver pâté

Chicken Liver Pâté – A Homemade Delicacy

Who doesn't adore the enticing aromas of a carefully prepared chicken liver pâté at home? This simple yet sophisticated recipe brings together fresh and healthy ingredients, transforming them into a savory appetizer perfect for any occasion. Chicken liver pâté is not only delicious but also a nutritious option, rich in protein and essential vitamins, making it an excellent ally in your menu.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 500 g fresh chicken liver
- 1 medium onion
- 1-2 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- 75 g butter (for a rich flavor)
- Nutmeg (optional, for flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sweet paprika, for vibrant color
- 2-3 tablespoons white wine (for a subtle note of acidity)

Preparing the Chicken Liver Pâté

1. Boiling the liver: Start by washing the chicken liver thoroughly under cold running water. Then, place it in a pot with cold water, without salt. You can add bay leaves for extra flavor, but it's not mandatory. Boil the liver for 20 minutes until tender, then drain and let it cool.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel the onion and garlic. Finely chop the onion and crush the garlic. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat and add the onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and continue cooking for another minute. Deglazing with white wine adds a refined flavor. Let the mixture simmer until the wine reduces, then allow it to cool.

3. Blending the ingredients: In a powerful blender (or an immersion blender, as you prefer), add the boiled liver and the onion-garlic mixture. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. If your blender is not very powerful, you can do this in two batches.

4. Adding the butter and seasoning: Add the diced butter and season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and sweet paprika, to taste. Blend again until everything is well incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary.

5. Storing the pâté: Pour the resulting pâté into small jars, leaving a little space at the top. Cover with a thin layer of melted butter to prevent oxidation and maintain freshness. The pâté can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Serving and Pairings

Chicken liver pâté is extremely versatile. You can serve it on toasted bread or savory crackers, alongside pickles or cheese. It's perfect for parties, festive meals, or simply as a delicious snack at breakfast.

Variations and Tips

- Variations: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill to give the pâté a fresh note. You can also experiment with different types of butter, such as herb butter, for a unique taste.
- Tips: If you desire a finer texture, you can strain the pâté through a fine sieve after blending. Additionally, you can add a bit of sour cream or cream cheese for a creamier pâté.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken liver is an excellent source of protein, vitamins A, B12, iron, and zinc. This pâté not only provides you with a delicious snack but also offers health benefits, making it a good choice for a balanced lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use liver of another type? Yes, you can use beef or duck liver, but the cooking time may vary.
- What can I do with leftovers? Chicken liver pâté can be used as a filling for various appetizers or canapés, or even as an ingredient in pies.
- How can I make this pâté healthier? You can reduce the amount of butter and use extra virgin olive oil instead of regular oil.

In conclusion, this chicken liver pâté recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, bringing a touch of refinement to any meal. Don't hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and put your personal stamp on this delicacy. Enjoy!