chicken liver pâté
Chicken Liver Pâté – A Delicious Recipe for Holidays
Chicken liver pâté is a traditional dish, full of flavor, that brings a touch of joy and warmth to every holiday meal. This delightful appetizer is perfect for enjoying with loved ones, and the recipe we will explore today is simple, quick, and full of fresh ingredients. Whether you prepare it for Easter or any other special occasion, chicken liver pâté will surely be appreciated by all!
Preparation Time
- Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 60 minutes
- Number of servings: 8
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken liver
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 slices of bread
- 1 bunch of parsley
- 1 bunch of dill
- 2 green onions
- 2 cloves of green garlic
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 7 raw eggs
- 2-3 tablespoons of milk (for greasing)
Brief History
Pâté has deep roots in culinary traditions, often associated with Easter celebrations. Although recipes may vary from culture to culture, the basic ingredients remain similar – organ meats, fresh greens, and spices. This chicken liver pâté recipe is lighter and less heavy than the traditional lamb version, making it ideal for those who prefer chicken.
Preparation Technique
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken liver well, carefully removing any visible veins. Then, boil it in a pot of water over medium heat. It is important to cook it enough to become tender but not so much that it loses its juiciness.
2. Boiling the chicken breast: In another pot, add the chicken breast to boil. It should be well cooked but not dry.
3. Chopping the greens: In the meantime, finely chop the parsley, dill, green onion, and green garlic. These ingredients bring freshness and wonderful flavor to the dish.
4. Preparing the bread: Take the two slices of bread and soak them in water. After a few minutes, remove them and drain well to avoid excess water.
5. Chopping the meat: Once the liver and chicken breast are boiled and cooled slightly, chop them with a knife or pass them through a meat grinder, depending on your preference. The texture can vary from fine to coarser, based on individual tastes.
6. Combining the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the chopped meat, chopped greens, soaked and drained bread slices, then crack the eggs one by one, mixing well after each. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Preparing the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with oil or butter and line it with breadcrumbs or flour to prevent sticking.
8. Baking the pâté: Pour the mixture into the dish and level the surface. Before putting it in the oven, you can brush the top with a mixture of beaten egg and a few tablespoons of milk for a golden and appetizing crust. Bake the pâté for 50-60 minutes until firm and nicely browned on top.
9. Cooling and serving: After the pâté is done, let it cool slightly before slicing. It is delicious both warm and cold, and can be served alongside a fresh green salad or garlic mayonnaise.
Practical Tips
- Chicken liver: Choose fresh liver, dark red in color, with no spots. This will add an intense flavor and fine texture to the pâté.
- Greens: Use fresh herbs, preferably from the garden, for an authentic taste. Parsley and dill can be replaced with other aromatic herbs like marjoram or tarragon for a personalized touch.
- Variations: You can also add other ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms or olives, to diversify the flavor.
Delicious Combinations
This chicken liver pâté pairs perfectly with:
- A fresh vegetable salad
- Garlic mayonnaise
- A yogurt sauce with dill
- A refreshing drink, such as a dry white wine or mint lemonade.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I store chicken liver pâté?
The pâté can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the oven or eaten cold.
2. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use beef or pork instead of chicken, taking care to adjust the cooking time according to the type of meat.
3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
This recipe is not vegan, but you can experiment with plant-based ingredients like mushrooms and tofu to create a delicious alternative.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken liver pâté is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals, being a nourishing yet tasty dish. The combination with fresh greens adds a boost of antioxidants and essential nutrients.
In conclusion, chicken liver pâté is not just a simple appetizer but a recipe full of tradition and flavor that brings people together. Whether you choose to prepare it for holidays or simply for a family meal, this dish will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy it with pleasure!
Ingredients: 1 kg chicken liver, 2 chicken breasts, 2 slices of bread, parsley, dill, green onion, green garlic, salt, pepper, 7 raw eggs