Veal liver with mushrooms and thyme

Veal liver with mushrooms and thyme – A savory and comforting recipe

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

Introduction

Welcome to our kitchen, where today we will prepare a delicious and flavorful dish: veal liver with mushrooms and thyme. This recipe is not only an excellent choice for a quick dinner but also an explosion of flavors that will delight the taste buds of your loved ones. Veal liver is a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and when combined with mushrooms and spices, it becomes an elegant yet easy-to-make dish.

A bit of history

Liver has been consumed for centuries by people all over the world, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its nutritional benefits. In many cultures, liver is considered a delicacy and is often prepared in various ways. Combining liver with mushrooms is a cherished culinary tradition, as mushrooms add umami texture and depth of flavor. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

- 500 g veal liver
- 250 g champignon mushrooms
- 1 medium onion
- 4-5 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 glass of white wine
- 1/2 tablespoon chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Preparing the ingredients

The first step in making this dish is to prepare the ingredients. Start by slicing the veal liver into thin strips. It is important to have fresh liver, with a uniform color and firm texture. After slicing, place the liver strips in a bowl of cold water and add a teaspoon of salt. Let them soak for 30 minutes. This process helps remove blood and impurities, resulting in a tastier and less bitter liver.

Meanwhile, clean the mushrooms and slice them thinly. The onion should be sliced finely to sauté evenly. The thyme leaves easily detach from the sprigs, adding a fresh aroma to our dish.

Cooking

Once you have finished preparing the ingredients, it’s time to start cooking.

1. Heating the oil: In a large skillet, add the three tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Olive oil has a delicate flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

2. Sautéing the onion: Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. It is essential not to let it brown too much, as we want to preserve its sweetness.

3. Adding the mushrooms: Now, add the sliced mushrooms and chili flakes. Cook over high heat for 10 minutes. The mushrooms will release water, contributing to a delicious sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Including the liver: It’s time to add the strips of veal liver to the skillet. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring periodically. The liver will brown slightly and develop a soft, juicy texture. Do not overcook it to avoid toughness.

5. Adding the wine and vinegar: After the liver is cooked, pour in the glass of white wine and the balsamic vinegar. These ingredients not only add acidity and depth of flavor but also help to unlock the aromas. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add 1/2 glass of water.

6. Seasoning: Season with salt, freshly ground pepper, and the cleaned thyme leaves. Allow the sauce to simmer until it reduces by half. It will become more concentrated and flavorful.

Serving

Once the sauce is ready, prepare to serve this delight! Veal liver with mushrooms and thyme is served hot, accompanied by delicious side dishes. Personally, I recommend thyme potatoes, which perfectly complement the flavors of this dish. You can prepare them as mashed, fried, or baked, depending on your preferences.

Vegetarian option

If you want to try a vegetarian version, you can substitute the liver with tofu or tempeh, which can be marinated and cooked in the same way. The flavors of the mushrooms and spices will provide a surprisingly good taste.

Frequently asked questions

1. How can I make the liver less bitter?
Washing the liver in salted water is an essential step to reduce bitterness. Also, make sure not to overcook it.

2. Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! Shiitake or portobello mushrooms are excellent alternatives and will add a distinct flavor to the dish.

3. Is veal liver healthy?
Veal liver is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins. It also contains antioxidants that help maintain health.

4. What white wine should I choose for this recipe?
Choose a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which will complement the flavors of the dish.

Conclusion

Veal liver with mushrooms and thyme is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that is full of nutrients. With a little effort, you will impress family and friends with an elegant dinner that will stay in their memories. Don’t forget to experiment with side dishes and adapt the recipe to your own taste. Enjoy your meal!