Liver Sauté

Pork Liver Sauté: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

If you want to explore the rich and comforting flavors of a traditional dish, pork liver sauté is the perfect choice. This quick and accessible recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also remind you of warm family meals.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Essential ingredients:
- 500 g pork liver (fresh and high-quality)
- Oil for frying (sunflower or olive oil, depending on your preference)
- 4 tablespoons of tomato paste (you can use tomato purée or concentrated tomato juice)
- Salt and ground pepper to taste
- A few whole peppercorns (black or mixed)
- A few bay leaves
- 1 carrot (fresh, for a touch of sweetness)

A brief history of the recipe:
Pork liver has been an important part of the traditional diet in many cultures, valued for its rich texture and high nutritional content. It is an excellent source of protein, iron, and vitamins A and B, making it a valuable ingredient for a healthy meal. Sautéing liver is a classic way to prepare this ingredient, combining it with vegetables and spices to create a savory and nourishing dish.

Step by step – Preparing the liver sauté:

1. Preparing the liver:
- Start by rinsing the pork liver under cold running water. Make sure to remove any membranes or blood vessels, as these can impart a bitter taste.
- Cut the liver into slices about two fingers thick. This will allow for even cooking and help retain juiciness.

2. Frying the liver:
- In a large skillet, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan and heat it well, but avoid letting it smoke.
- Place the liver slices in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the liver for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning it with a spatula to brown evenly.
- Taste and add salt and ground pepper to your liking.

3. Adding the vegetables:
- Once the liver is browned, add the carrot sliced into thin rounds. This will add a touch of sweetness and complement the rich flavor of the liver.
- Gently stir to incorporate the carrot among the liver slices.

4. Simmering:
- Pour a cup of water into the skillet, enough to cover the liver and carrot. Add the bay leaves and peppercorns for extra flavor.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 10 minutes over medium heat.

5. Preparing the sauce:
- In a small cup, mix the 4 tablespoons of tomato paste with a little water until smooth. This will form the base of your delicious sauce.
- After the 10 minutes of simmering, add the tomato paste mixture over the liver. Cover again and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, until the sauce starts to thicken.

6. Serving:
- Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded perfectly, it's time to serve.
- I recommend a side of mashed potatoes, which will soak up the delicious sauce and add a creamy texture.
- You can sprinkle some fresh herbs, like parsley, for a pop of color and freshness.

Useful tips:
- Buy fresh liver, preferably from a trusted supplier. Frozen liver can have a different texture, so make sure to choose the fresh option for the best results.
- If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute pork liver with chicken liver, which has a milder taste and cooks faster.
- Add some aromatic herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to provide extra flavor to your dish.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of liver?
- Yes, chicken liver or beef liver is an excellent alternative. Cooking time may vary, so make sure to check the texture.

2. What other sides can I serve with liver sauté?
- Besides mashed potatoes, you can opt for a green salad with lemon dressing or sautéed vegetables.

3. How many calories does this dish have?
- A serving of pork liver sauté (approximately 125g) contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the oil used and added sides. It is an excellent source of protein and vitamins.

This pork liver sauté recipe is not only easy to make but also brings a touch of nostalgia to every bite. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this traditional dish that will turn any meal into a special occasion. Enjoy your meal!