Oven-baked chicken livers with garlic

Chicken liver with garlic baked in the oven

Chicken livers with garlic baked in the oven represent a classic and delicious recipe, full of flavors and nutritional benefits. This dish is not only an excellent choice for a quick dinner but also a way to enjoy an often overlooked yet highly nutritious ingredient. Chicken livers are a rich source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals, and the combination with garlic gives them an unmistakable flavor.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g chicken liver
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons chicken seasoning (or salt, to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

A bit of history:

Chicken livers have been part of traditional meals throughout history, appreciated not only for their taste but also for their low cost. These organs are often used in dishes around the world, but recipes vary significantly by region. The use of garlic is a universal technique that adds an extra layer of flavor and health benefits. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, making this recipe not only tasty but also beneficial for health.

Preparing the liver:

1. Cleaning the liver: Start by cleaning the chicken liver. It should be free from fat and skin remnants. Place it in a bowl and wash it well with cold water, ensuring it is clean. This step is essential for achieving a fine and tasty dish.

2. Seasoning: Once the liver is clean, add a little chicken seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix carefully to ensure that each piece is evenly seasoned. Taste and adjust the spices to your liking.

3. Baking dish and oil: In a smaller baking dish, pour a few tablespoons of olive oil. This will not only prevent the liver from sticking to the dish but will also help achieve a delicious crust. Place the livers in the dish, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

4. Adding garlic: Slice the garlic cloves thinly and sprinkle them among the livers. The flavor of the garlic will infuse into the liver during baking, providing a truly special taste.

Baking:

5. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal temperature to achieve browned and juicy liver.

6. Baking: Place the dish in the oven and let the livers bake for 30 minutes. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 20 minutes to maintain a constant temperature. After 30 minutes, check if the livers are well browned and cooked evenly. If you desire a crunchier crust, you can leave the dish in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Serving:

7. Ideal side dish: Chicken livers with garlic pair wonderfully with boiled potatoes and pickled cucumbers. Boiled potatoes with butter and fresh parsley will perfectly complement the intense flavor of the liver, while the pickled cucumbers will add a touch of freshness.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the liver: Make sure to choose fresh, high-quality liver. Buy it from a trusted supplier to ensure it is fresh and safe for consumption.
- Vegan option: If you want a vegan option, you can replace the liver with portobello mushrooms, which have a meaty texture and absorb flavors very well.
- Alternative spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices! Oregano, thyme, or rosemary can add extra flavor to the dish.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How can I avoid the bitterness of the liver? Make sure the liver is well cleaned of fat and skin, and marinating it in milk for 30 minutes before cooking can help reduce bitterness.

2. Can I freeze chicken liver? Yes, chicken liver can be frozen. Make sure it is well wrapped to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months.

3. What drinks go well with chicken livers? A dry white wine or apple cider could perfectly complement the flavors of this dish, bringing a pleasant contrast.

Chicken livers with garlic baked in the oven are a simple and quick recipe, ideal for a hearty and healthy dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform an ordinary meal into a memorable culinary experience. Try this recipe and enjoy its rich flavors!