Chicken meatloaf

Chicken Haggis – A Classic Recipe with a Unique Charm

When it comes to traditional dishes, chicken haggis holds a special place in the hearts of many. This recipe not only delights the taste buds but also brings pleasant memories, often associated with holidays or family reunions. This dish is versatile and can be served both cold as an appetizer and warm alongside a fresh garnish. Let's discover together how to prepare a delicious chicken haggis step by step, so you can impress everyone at your next meal!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients needed for chicken haggis:

1 kg chicken hearts and gizzards
1 kg chicken livers
6 tablespoons oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
5 eggs
3 large dry onions
2 bunches green onions
1 bunch fresh parsley
1/2 bunch fresh dill
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the chicken haggis:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken hearts and gizzards well under cold running water. It is important to clean them thoroughly, as this step will influence the final taste of the haggis. After washing, place them in a pot with cold water, adding a teaspoon of salt. Let them boil for about 30 minutes, skimming off the foam that forms on the surface with a spatula. This will ensure a clean and delicate taste.

Step 2: Preparing the livers
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, add the 6 tablespoons of oil and sauté the livers over low heat. Lightly brown them, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Once nicely browned, remove them from the skillet and place them in a bowl to cool.

Step 3: Sautéing the onions
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped dry onion. Sauté it over low heat until it becomes translucent and soft. Then, add the chopped green onions and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes. This will add a fresh and aromatic flavor to your haggis.

Step 4: Preparing the mixture
Once the gizzards and hearts are boiled, drain them well and let them cool. Once cooled, pass all the ingredients (gizzards, hearts, and livers) through a meat grinder. This is an essential step, as the fine texture of the mixture will make the haggis more enjoyable to taste. In a large bowl, combine the chopped gizzards and hearts, liver, sautéed onion, finely chopped parsley and dill, the 5 eggs, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 5: Baking the haggis
Line a large loaf pan with baking paper and lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the pan, leveling the surface well. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the pan in the oven. Let the haggis bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until it is nicely browned on top and the egg in the mixture has set.

Step 6: Serving the haggis
Once the haggis is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes. Then, transfer it to a platter and slice it. Chicken haggis is served cold, accompanied by horseradish or mustard, which adds a spicy and refreshing note. You can also add a fresh green salad for a balanced and flavorful meal.

Practical tips:
1. You can also add other ingredients to the mixture, such as sautéed mushrooms or olives for a more complex flavor.
2. If you want a less fatty haggis, you can replace part of the liver with ground chicken meat.
3. If you don't have a meat grinder, you can use a high-powered blender to achieve a fine mixture.
4. The haggis can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it an excellent choice for festive meals.

Nutritional information:
Chicken haggis is a good source of protein and vitamins, being rich in iron, vitamin A, and B12, due to the liver content. A serving of haggis contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the servings provided.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with other types of meat, such as pork or beef, but cooking times and proportions may change.
2. How can I store the haggis?
The haggis stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze the haggis?
Yes, you can freeze the haggis, but make sure it is well wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

This chicken haggis is not just a recipe but also an opportunity to gather the family around the table, to share moments and stories. Enjoy it with pleasure and remember that the best part of cooking is the joy of sharing with loved ones. Bon appétit!