Onion sauce with chicken liver and mashed potatoes

Onion Sauce with Chicken Livers and Mashed Potatoes

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction
Onion sauce with chicken livers is a rustic, simple, and comforting dish, perfect for a family dinner or to delight guests with a rich and aromatic flavor. This recipe combines the delicate taste of the livers with the sweetness of onions and tomato sauce, all served on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. It is a perfect example of food that brings together tradition and comfort, and the way the flavors blend will turn any meal into a memorable experience.

Ingredients
For the sauce:
- 1 kg chicken livers
- 5 tablespoons tomato paste
- 200 ml water
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 3-4 crushed garlic cloves
- About 50 ml oil
- 3-4 medium onions (red or white)

For the mashed potatoes:
- 10 potatoes (preferably white, but red is also fine)

Step by Step Preparation
1. Preparing the Livers
The first step is to clean the chicken livers. Rinse them well under cold running water, then soak them in cold water for 10 minutes. This step helps remove the bitter taste. After that, let them sit in cold milk for another 10 minutes. The milk not only removes bitterness but also brings a smoother texture.

2. Preparing the Onions
Peel the onions and chop them finely. In a pot, add the oil and chopped onions. Place it over medium heat and sprinkle with salt to taste. Cook the onions until they become transparent and soft. This process will take about 5-7 minutes. It is important to stir occasionally to avoid burning.

3. Cooking the Livers
Once the onions have softened, add 20 ml of water and mix well. This step is essential to create a moist environment that helps the onions cook evenly. Now, add the whole livers to the pot. Cover the pot and let them simmer for about 10 minutes over medium heat.

4. Flavors and Sauce
After 10 minutes, sprinkle the dried basil and add the sweet paprika. Mix well to combine the flavors. Then, add the remaining water and let everything simmer over medium heat. When the ingredients are almost cooked, add the crushed garlic and tomato paste. These will add a deep flavor and beautiful color to the sauce. Mix well and let it simmer until the sauce thickens, adding a bay leaf towards the end.

5. Preparing the Mashed Potatoes
Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into 3-4 pieces. Boil them in salted water. When they are cooked (about 20 minutes), drain them and mash them with a potato masher. Add 2-3 tablespoons of margarine and mix well, then gradually add milk until you achieve a soft and creamy paste. Adjust the salt to taste.

6. Serving
To serve, place a generous layer of mashed potatoes on the plate, and on top add the livers with the onion sauce. You can garnish with a little chopped fresh parsley or a slice of lemon for a touch of freshness. This combination will bring a perfect balance between the intense flavor of the livers and the creaminess of the mash.

Practical Tips
- Fresh chicken livers: Choose fresh livers with a deep red color. Avoid livers that have a dull appearance or a sticky texture.
- Onions: Red onions add a more intense sweetness, while white onions offer a milder taste. Choose based on your preferences.
- Mashed potatoes: You can also add a little crushed garlic to the mash for extra flavor or experiment with cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
- Variations: Instead of tomato paste, you can try sour cream or mushroom sauce to completely change the flavor profile of the recipe.

Nutritional Benefits
Chicken livers are an excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins (especially vitamin A and B12), and essential minerals like iron. They are also low in calories, making them a healthy choice within a balanced diet. Potatoes, on the other hand, are a good source of carbohydrates and fiber, providing the energy needed for an active day.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen livers?
Yes, frozen livers can be used, but make sure to fully thaw them before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a little chili pepper or chili flakes, depending on how spicy you like the sauce.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a pale beer are excellent choices to complement the rich flavors of the livers and sauce.

4. Can I replace the potatoes with another ingredient?
Sure! You can try cauliflower mash for a lighter version, or carrot mash for a touch of sweetness.

Conclusion
Onion sauce with chicken livers and mashed potatoes is a simple yet impactful recipe, perfect for bringing a touch of warmth on chilly days. With every bite, you will enjoy rich flavors and fine textures, transforming an ordinary meal into a true feast of taste. Enjoy your meal!