KIDS Appetizer

Cheerful appetizer for kids: Colorful liver and cheese balls

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the cheerful and colorful kitchen! Today we will transform a simple ingredient, chicken liver, into a playful and appealing appetizer, perfect for little ones. This recipe not only brings a splash of joy to the plate but is also a great way to introduce more nutritious ingredients into children's diets.

About the recipe

Food for kids doesn't have to be boring! This recipe is inspired by the tradition of creating dishes that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Chicken liver is an excellent source of protein, vitamins A and B, and iron, essential for the healthy development of little ones. Combined with cottage cheese, this appetizer becomes a healthy and flavorful snack.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 chicken liver (approximately 200-250g)
- 3 colorful bell peppers (1 red, 1 yellow, 1 green)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or another preferred oil)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 pinch of pepper
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 100g cottage cheese (preferably fresh, salted)
- 1 salty cracker (for decoration)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the chicken liver: In a pan, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Wash the chicken liver under cold water and dry it with a paper towel. Add the liver to the pan and season with salt and pepper. Let it sauté for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and tender.

2. Mashing the liver: Once the liver is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it cool slightly. Place the liver in a bowl and add the butter. Using a blender or mixer, mash the liver and butter until you obtain a smooth and creamy paste.

3. Forming the balls: Using your palms, form small balls of liver paste, about the size of a walnut. These will be the base of your cheerful appetizer.

4. Decorating with peppers: Cut the peppers into small colorful cubes. Use these pieces to decorate the liver balls. You can apply the peppers all over the surface of the balls or create smiling faces.

5. Cheese balls: For a vegetarian option, mix the cottage cheese with the soft butter until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Form cheese balls and decorate them just like the liver balls, using the colorful peppers.

6. Creating a figure: From cheese, you can create a funny figure. Shape a cube from cheese and decorate it with a bow made of red pepper. Place the salty cracker on top, simulating a funny beard, and let your imagination run wild!

Useful tips

- Make sure the liver is well-cooked to avoid health risks. Avoid leaving it raw inside.
- If kids prefer a milder taste, you can soak the liver in milk for 30 minutes before cooking, which will reduce its specific bitterness.
- For more fun, let the kids participate in decorating the appetizers. It’s a creative activity that will stimulate their imagination!
- This appetizer can be served with salty crackers or toasted bread, for a crunchy texture that complements the dish.

Combinations and variations

This cheerful appetizer can be served alongside natural fruit juices or nutritious smoothies. Also, for a more substantial meal, pair it with a fresh green salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use beef liver or another type of liver?
Yes, you can also use beef or pork liver, but cooking time may vary.

2. What other vegetables can I use for decoration?
Besides peppers, you can use carrots, cucumbers, or olives to add more color.

3. How can I store leftover appetizers?
The balls can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This appetizer contains approximately 150 calories per serving, being rich in protein, iron, and essential vitamins. Chicken liver is an excellent choice for supporting immune system health and muscle development, while cheese provides additional calcium and protein.

In conclusion, this cheerful appetizer will not only bring smiles to little ones' faces but will also be a source of essential nutrients. So, get ready to experiment in the kitchen and create delicious memories with your loved ones! Enjoy!