Homemade chicken liver pâté
Homemade Chicken Liver Pâté
Who doesn't love a creamy, flavorful pâté to enjoy alongside a slice of fresh bread? This homemade chicken liver pâté recipe is not only simple but also a healthy choice, perfect for impressing your family and friends. Plus, it will make you feel proud to have created something so delicious with your own hands!
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 500g chicken livers (preferably from chicken or turkey)
- 2 large chicken thighs (with bone)
- 1 medium onion (for boiling)
- 1 large onion (for frying)
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower oil or olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup of milk
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- A small cup of water
A Brief History of the Recipe
Pâté is a traditional dish found in various cultures around the world. Whether made from meat, fish, or vegetables, each variant has its own story. Liver pâtés are appreciated for their creamy texture and intense flavor, often served at festive meals or as appetizers.
Steps to Achieve a Perfect Pâté
Step 1: Preparing the Livers
The first step is to ensure that the livers are clean and ready for cooking. Rinse the livers well under cold running water and remove any membranes covering them. Then, place them in a bowl with milk and let them soak for 1-2 hours. This step will not only help improve the texture but also remove any bitter taste.
Step 2: Boiling the Thighs
Meanwhile, clean the chicken thighs, making sure to remove the skin. In a large pot, add the thighs, the medium onion, and a teaspoon of salt, then cover with water. Let it boil for 30-40 minutes, skimming off any foam that forms on the surface. The meat is done when it easily pulls away from the bone.
Step 3: Preparing the Livers
Once the livers have soaked in the milk, drain them well. In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the finely chopped large onion with a pinch of salt until it becomes translucent. Then, add the drained livers and fry them on both sides, being careful not to dry them out. Add the bay leaf, pepper, and a small cup of water, cover, and let it simmer until all the water has evaporated.
Step 4: Blending the Mixture
After the thighs have boiled, remove them from the water, discard the bones and skin, and place the meat in a large bowl. Add the mixture of sautéed livers and onion, and blend using an immersion blender. If necessary, add a little of the broth in which the thighs were boiled until you achieve the desired consistency. Taste and add salt or pepper as preferred.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving
Once you have a smooth paste, pour the mixture into small containers. Let them cool at room temperature, then refrigerate. The pâté will stay fresh for up to 7 days.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade chicken liver pâté is delicious spread on toasted bread, paired with a fresh salad or pickles. You can also add a few cloves of fresh garlic for an extra flavor boost!
Variations and Chef's Tip
For a richer flavor, you can add herbs like thyme or rosemary while frying the livers. Additionally, if you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add some slices of caramelized apples or pears to the pâté mix. These will add an interesting and delicious contrast!
Nutritional Benefits
Livers are an excellent source of protein, vitamins (especially vitamin A and vitamin B12), and minerals like iron, which is essential for blood health. Additionally, moderate consumption of liver can contribute to a balanced and healthy diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen livers?
Yes, you can use frozen livers, but make sure to fully thaw them before preparation to achieve an even texture.
2. How can I make the pâté creamier?
Adding a larger amount of butter or cream to the mixture can help achieve a creamier texture.
3. Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various flavors, such as mustard, chili peppers, or even olives, to customize the pâté to your taste.
Conclusion
This homemade chicken liver pâté is not just a tasty dish but also an excellent way to bring a traditional recipe adapted to your tastes to your table. So, don't wait any longer and start your adventure in the kitchen! With each step, you'll discover not only the cooking process but also the joy of creating something delicious and healthy for your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 500g chicken liver, 2 large chicken thighs with bone, 1 medium onion, 1 large onion, 2-3 tablespoons of oil, 1 bay leaf, 1 cup of milk, salt, pepper, a small cup of water