Homemade pâté with orange and almonds

Homemade pâté with orange and almonds

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8

This homemade pâté recipe with orange and almonds is a delicacy that will transform any meal into a true culinary feast. The culinary challenge 'The Mystery Box' inspired this unexpected yet incredibly tasty combination. It may sound strange at first, but I assure you that each bite will bring an explosion of flavors. The orange adds a note of freshness, while the almonds and nutmeg subtly and sophisticatedly complete this dish.

Ingredients:

For the pâté:
- 600 g chicken livers
- 200-300 g chicken meat (thigh)
- 1 orange
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Nutmeg (to taste)
- 100 g butter

For the topping:
- 1-2 tablespoons orange marmalade with whiskey
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Dried orange peel (for decoration)
- 50 g almonds

Step-by-step preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken livers under cold running water, ensuring you remove any impurities. Let them drain for a few minutes. At the same time, cut the chicken thigh into small cubes for even cooking.

Step 2: Cooking the meat
In a large pot, add the chicken meat and some vegetables (e.g., carrots, onion, celery) to enhance the flavor. Cover with water and let it boil over medium heat for about 20 minutes. This will create a delicious stock that will enrich the pâté's taste.

Step 3: Searing the livers
In a skillet, heat a little butter and olive oil. Add the chicken livers and lightly brown them until golden. This will intensify the flavor and provide a pleasant texture to the pâté.

Step 4: Adding the orange
Peel the orange and slice it thinly, removing the seeds. Add the orange slices to the skillet over the browned livers. Let it sizzle for a few minutes, then deglaze with a little stock. This step will add a pleasant acidity, balancing the rich taste of the meat.

Step 5: Seasoning
Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, mixing well to combine the flavors. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, so all the ingredients meld together.

Step 6: Blending the mixture
Once all the ingredients are cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer the mixture to a blender, adding the softened butter. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. If the pâté seems too thick, add a little of the stock to thin it out.

Step 7: Assembling the pâté
Pour the resulting pâté into a ceramic mold or glass container, leveling the surface. Drizzle a little olive oil on top and add a few tablespoons of diluted orange marmalade. This will create a delicious contrast between sweet and savory.

Step 8: Decorating
Chop the almonds coarsely and sprinkle them evenly over the pâté, along with a bit of dried orange peel and a pinch of nutmeg. These will not only add a beautiful appearance but also a crunchy texture.

Step 9: Cooling
Allow the pâté to cool to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This will allow the flavors to develop and integrate perfectly.

Practical tips for a perfect result:
- Choose fresh, high-quality livers for better taste.
- The orange marmalade with whiskey can be replaced with plain marmalade, but adding whiskey brings a sophisticated touch.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, experiment with different spices like coriander or cumin.
- This pâté can be served with savory crackers, toasted bread, or even fresh vegetables.

Recommended pairings:
To complement this homemade pâté with orange and almonds, try serving it alongside a green salad with lemon dressing or a fruit chutney. A bottle of dry white wine or a fresh citrus cocktail will further enhance the flavors of this dish.

Nutritional information:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the livers and chicken meat, having about 250 calories per serving. The almonds add healthy fats and fiber, while the orange provides vitamin C and antioxidants, making this pâté a delicious and nutritious choice.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with duck or turkey for a different flavor.

2. How can I store the pâté?
The pâté keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. Freezing is also an option, but it's best consumed fresh for the best flavors.

3. Is this dish suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! This pâté is perfect for appetizers at parties or gatherings with friends, bringing an elegant touch to festive tables.

In conclusion, the homemade pâté with orange and almonds is not just a simple recipe but also an opportunity to explore new flavor combinations. Try it with confidence and be surprised by its refined taste!