Chicken livers with zucchini in tomato sauce

Chicken liver with zucchini in tomato sauce - A recipe full of flavor and wellness

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a hearty dish, full of flavor and healthy ingredients? Chicken liver with zucchini in tomato sauce is a classic recipe, easy to prepare, that perfectly combines the delicate taste of the livers with the sweetness of tomatoes and the freshness of zucchini. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients.

A brief history of the recipe

Chicken livers have long been considered a true delicacy, often used in traditional dishes around the world. They are rich in iron, vitamins A and B12, and are an excellent source of quality protein. Combining them with vegetables like zucchini and tomatoes not only enhances the nutritional value of the dish but also adds a burst of flavor and color.

Necessary ingredients

To prepare this delicious recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 kg chicken livers
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- ½ bunch of green onions, chopped
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 4-5 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme)
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to counteract the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 250 ml tomato juice
- 2 tomatoes, peeled and diced
- Milk, for marinating the livers

Step by step

1. Marinating the chicken livers
Start by washing the chicken livers well, making sure to remove any membranes or impurities. Then, place them in a bowl and cover with milk. Marinating in milk not only helps to eliminate the specific smell of the livers but also makes them more tender. Let them chill for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preparing the vegetables
While the livers are marinating, you can prepare the vegetables. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

3. Cooking the livers
Remove the livers from the milk and drain them well. Add them to the skillet over the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently to brown them evenly. Then add ½ cup of water, the diced zucchini, and the diced tomatoes. Let everything simmer for 5 minutes for the vegetables to soften.

4. Preparing the sauce
In a small bowl, mix the tomato juice with salt, pepper, sugar, and your favorite spices. Pour the sauce mixture over the livers and vegetables. Add the sprig of thyme. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, during which time the sauce will thicken and the flavors will meld.

5. Serving
Once the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken livers with zucchini in hot tomato sauce, alongside a side of polenta or mashed potatoes for a comforting dish. Don’t forget a fresh salad as an accompaniment to add a touch of freshness.

Useful tips

- Choosing the livers: Always choose fresh livers, with a uniform color and firm texture. Avoid livers with an unpleasant smell or spots.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the livers with mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Oven cooking: For a healthier option, you can cook the entire dish in the oven at 180°C for 30-35 minutes. Cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
- Storing leftovers: The dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated without any issues.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken livers are an excellent source of protein, with low fat content. They are rich in iron, essential for oxygen transport in the body, and in vitamin A, important for skin and eye health. Zucchini adds fiber and vitamins, while tomatoes contribute antioxidants and hydration.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace chicken livers with beef liver or other cuts of meat, although the cooking time may vary.

2. What side dishes go best?
Polenta, mashed potatoes, or rice are excellent options to soak up the delicious sauce.

3. How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?
By adding a few drops of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of white wine to the sauce, you can add depth of flavor.

Serving suggestions

To make the dish even more special, you can garnish it with freshly chopped parsley or a few slices of lemon for a contrast of flavors. A recommended drink would be a dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

In conclusion, chicken liver with zucchini in tomato sauce is a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe that will bring joy to your table. Try making it today and enjoy a healthy and delicious meal!