Pork liver with caramelized onions

Pork Liver with Caramelized Onions

Preparing pork liver with caramelized onions is a simple yet flavorful recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia to every meal. Additionally, this recipe is an excellent choice for those looking to enrich their diet with nutritious foods, thanks to the high iron content in pork liver, which helps combat anemia. This recipe is quick to prepare, but the result is delicious and impressive.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 2-3 people

Ingredients:
- 500 g pork liver
- 2 large onions
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- Orange juice (optional, for a fruity taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the liver: Start by washing the pork liver well under a stream of cold water. It is important to remove any impurities or remaining blood. After washing, cut the liver into thick slices of about 1 cm. This will help with even and quick cooking.

2. Seasoning the liver: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground pepper on both sides of the liver. Avoid adding salt before cooking the liver, as this will make it firmer.

3. Cooking the liver: Heat a frying pan or grill pan over medium to high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and let it heat well. When the oil is hot, add the liver slices. The liver cooks quickly, so do not leave it in the pan for too long. Cook each slice for 3-4 minutes on each side. It is important not to overcrowd the pan, or they will steam instead of frying.

4. Salting the liver: When the liver is almost done, add salt to taste. This will help maintain juiciness and a tender texture.

5. Caramelizing the onions: While the liver is cooking, you can prepare the onions. Slice the onions thinly and place them in another pan with 1-2 tablespoons of oil. Cook the onions over low heat, stirring frequently, until they become golden and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Caramelizing the onions adds a natural sweetness that will contrast perfectly with the salty and slightly bitter taste of the liver.

6. Optional – adding orange juice: If you want a fruitier taste and a slight acidity, add a few tablespoons of orange juice over the liver in the last minutes of cooking. This will help retain juiciness and provide a delicious contrast with the caramelized onions.

7. Serving: Once the liver is cooked and the caramelized onions are ready, arrange the liver slices on plates, add the onions on top, and if you like, drizzle everything with a little orange juice. You can serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or sautéed vegetables for a complete and balanced lunch.

Useful tips:
- Pork liver can easily dry out if overcooked, so make sure to monitor it closely.
- If you prefer a softer texture, you can marinate the liver in orange juice or milk for 30 minutes before cooking.
- The caramelized onions can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. You can also use them for other recipes, such as burgers or pizza.

Nutritional benefits:
Pork liver is an excellent source of protein, vitamins (especially B12), and minerals such as iron and zinc. It is particularly important for those suffering from anemia, helping to increase hemoglobin levels in the blood. It also contains antioxidants that contribute to maintaining a healthy immune system.

Possible variations:
- You can add herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, over the liver during cooking for extra flavor.
- Instead of orange juice, you can experiment with lemon juice or white wine to add a tangy note.

Frequently asked questions:
- Why is salt not added at the beginning? Salt makes the liver firm, and its texture can be affected.
- How do I know when the liver is done? When cooked, the liver should have a pale pink color inside, but it should not be crusty or dry.

This pork liver with caramelized onions recipe is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or to impress friends, the result will always be the same: a tasty and comforting dish that will bring smiles to everyone's faces. Enjoy your meal!