Polenta with chicken gizzards baked in the oven

Polenta with Baked Gizzards – A Savory Recipe Full of Tradition and Warmth

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Polenta with baked gizzards is a dish that combines tradition with exquisite taste. This recipe has been passed down through generations, evoking childhood memories and bringing the family together around the table. It is a comforting dish, ideal for a family lunch or a dinner with friends.

Necessary ingredients:

- 300 g pork liver
- 300 g chicken gizzards
- 200 g chicken rennet
- 2 green onions (or one large onion)
- 1 carrot
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 500 g polenta (made from 250 g cornmeal)
- 200 g smoked cheese (preferably well-smoked)
- 2 boiled eggs

Step by step – Your guide to perfect polenta

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the liver, gizzards, and rennet well. These are a source of healthy proteins, and cooking them will add a unique flavor to your polenta. Make sure to choose fresh ones, and if you have the chance to buy directly from farmers, it’s even better. Put all the ingredients to boil in a large pot of water with a pinch of salt, then let them boil for about 20 minutes.

2. Chopping the ingredients
After boiling, drain them and let them cool slightly. Then, chop them finely. This is an important step as the textures will combine beautifully in the polenta. Use a sharp knife to get uniform pieces.

3. Preparing the filling
In a heated pan, add a little oil and sauté the diced onion and carrot. The onion brings sweetness, while the carrot adds color and nutrients. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the chopped liver and gizzards, stirring constantly. After 5 minutes, add the chopped dill, salt, and pepper to taste. Turn off the heat and add the finely chopped parsley, which will bring a touch of freshness.

4. Preparing the polenta
Prepare the polenta according to the instructions on the package, using salted water. Gradually add the cornmeal to the boiling water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the polenta for 15-20 minutes until it becomes thick and pulls away from the sides of the pot.

5. Assembling the dish
In a heat-resistant dish, grease the bottom with a little oil. Add a layer of polenta, then the filling with gizzards and liver, followed by another layer of polenta. On top, place slices of cheese and boiled egg slices. The cheese will melt and form a delicious crust during baking.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and leave it for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese turns golden and slightly crispy. The aroma that will spread throughout the house is irresistible!

7. Serving
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. You can serve the polenta with a fresh vegetable salad or pickles, which will add a pleasant contrast. A glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement this traditional dish.

Practical tips:

- If you want a richer version, you can also add sautéed mushrooms to the filling.
- The polenta can be prepared in advance and kept in the fridge. You can easily reheat it by adding a splash of water.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as telemea or burduf cheese, to change the flavor of the dish.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can replace the gizzards and liver with chicken or pork, depending on your preferences.
- How many calories does this recipe have? A serving of polenta with baked gizzards contains approximately 450-500 calories, making it a substantial and nutritious option.
- How can I make the polenta softer? If you prefer a creamier polenta, add a splash of butter or sour cream at the end.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The liver is an excellent source of iron, essential for blood health, while the polenta provides complex carbohydrates, serving as a long-term energy source.

Possible variations:
If you want to add a touch of originality, you can try adding spices like sweet paprika or cumin to the filling. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as spicy cheese or cheddar.

Conclusion:
Polenta with baked gizzards is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that will transport you back in time, bringing together traditions and unforgettable flavors. Prepare this dish with love and share it with your loved ones – each serving will bring a smile to the faces of those who enjoy it. Enjoy your meal!