Chicken liver pâté with basil and nutmeg

Chicken liver pâté with basil and nutmeg

If you're looking for a simple and tasty recipe, perfect for enjoying on a slice of fresh bread or as an appetizer at a party, you've come to the right place! Chicken liver pâté is a delicious choice that will not only delight your taste buds but also add a touch of elegance to your table. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also very versatile, allowing you to experiment with various ingredients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

- 300 g chicken liver
- 75 ml sweet white wine (choose a quality wine to add extra flavor)
- 1 medium onion
- 100 g butter (preferably at room temperature for easier blending)
- 1 tablespoon lard (for a richer taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or hot, depending on preference)
- A pinch of nutmeg (freshly grated, if possible)
- A handful of fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon of dried basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe history:
Liver pâté has a long history, being appreciated in various cultures as a delicacy. It is essentially a fine liver paste that has been prepared over time in various versions. Whether served on toasted bread or as part of a platter of appetizers, liver pâté remains a classic dish that brings intense flavor and a velvety texture, making it ideal for any occasion.

Preparation technique:

1. Cleaning the liver: Start by cleaning the chicken liver. Remove any visible membranes or veins and wash it well under cold running water. It is essential for the liver to be fresh to achieve a tasty pâté.

2. Preparing the onion: Peel the onion and chop it finely. This will add a natural sweetness to your pâté.

3. Sautéing the onion: In a pot, melt the lard over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden. This process will add depth of flavor to your pâté.

4. Adding the liver: Add the chicken liver to the pot and sauté for 2 minutes over high heat. If you like garlic, you can add 1-2 minced garlic cloves now for extra flavor.

5. Deglazing with wine: Pour the sweet white wine into the pot, stirring to release the flavors from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the alcohol has evaporated and the liver is cooked but not dry.

6. Seasoning: Add the paprika, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the mixture, stirring well to combine the flavors. Once everything is well blended, remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool.

7. Making the pâté: Once the mixture has cooled, place it in a blender or food processor. Add the softened butter and blend until you achieve a smooth paste. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if necessary.

8. Cooling: Transfer the pâté to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This resting time will allow the flavors to develop and combine perfectly.

Serving suggestions:
Chicken liver pâté is best served on slices of toasted bread or crackers. You can garnish it with fresh basil leaves or a few slices of cucumber for a pleasing appearance and a burst of freshness.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can replace chicken liver with pork liver, which will give a more intense flavor to the pâté. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different note.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can the pâté be frozen? Yes, chicken liver pâté can be frozen. Make sure it is well wrapped in cling film and stored in an airtight container.

2. Can I use other types of wine? Sure! You can experiment with other types of wine, but be sure to choose one that complements the flavors you desire.

3. How can I improve the texture of the pâté? If you want an even creamier pâté, you can add a bit more butter or even a few tablespoons of cream.

4. What drinks pair well with it? Chicken liver pâté pairs wonderfully with white wine or a cocktail-type aperitif. Additionally, a glass of champagne can transform an ordinary snack into a refined experience.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken liver is an excellent source of protein and contains essential vitamins such as vitamin A, B12, and iron, contributing to eye health, the nervous system, and preventing anemia. Additionally, butter adds healthy fats, but moderation is important for a balanced diet.

In conclusion, preparing chicken liver pâté with basil and nutmeg is a simple art that combines tradition with innovation. With a little time and a few ingredients, you can bring a refined delicacy to your table that will surely be appreciated by all who taste it. Enjoy!