Calf's Liver

Authentic Danish Calf's Liver Recipe - A Flavorful Delight

Region / culture: Denmark | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Calf's liver is a classic dish that is rich in flavor and nutrients. This recipe combines tender slices of calves' liver with a savory sauce made from garlic, leeks, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and herbs. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

History

Liver has been a staple in many cuisines for centuries, prized for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. Calf's liver, in particular, is considered a delicacy in many European countries, where it is often served with onions and a rich gravy. This recipe puts a modern twist on a classic dish, adding in additional vegetables and herbs for a more complex flavor profile.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) calves' liver
salt and pepper
1 cup olive oil
0.5 small garlic bulbs
1 tbsp leek -- chopped
1 cup sliced mushrooms
2 onions -- chopped
2 tomatoes -- sliced
1 bay leaf -- crushed
0.25 tsp dried thyme
1 tbsp flour

How to prepare

Slice the rinsed liver thinly. Season it with salt and pepper.
Coat a deep fryer or flameproof casserole with a little oil and add the garlic.
Arrange some liver slices on the bottom.
Add half of the remaining ingredients.
Add the remaining liver slices, followed by the remaining vegetables and herbs.
Cover and cook for 1 hour over low heat or in a moderate oven (350°F or 177°C).
Remove the solids and transfer them to a warmed serving dish.
Strain the sauce and thicken it with flour, stirring smoothly over heat.
If the sauce has cooked away, use a little boiling water to extend the pan juices.
When the sauce is hot and boiling, pour it over the liver.

Variations

Add bacon or pancetta for a smoky flavor.
Substitute shallots for the onions for a milder taste.
Add a splash of brandy or sherry to the sauce for a touch of elegance.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the liver thinly to ensure even cooking.

- Season the liver generously with salt and pepper before cooking.

- Cooking the liver slowly over low heat or in a moderate oven helps to keep it tender and juicy.

- Thicken the sauce with flour to create a rich and velvety texture.

- Serve the liver hot with the sauce poured over the top for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the calf's liver with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the liver over low heat or in the oven helps to keep it tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use beef liver or chicken liver in place of calf's liver if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the liver and sauce ahead of time and reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the calf's liver on a bed of creamy polenta or with a side of sautéed greens for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a bold red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

400 per serving

Carbohydrates

5g per serving

Fats

25g per serving

Proteins

40g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the flour used to thicken the sauce.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein, iron, and vitamins. It is a hearty and nutritious meal that is sure to satisfy.

Summary

Calf's liver is a classic dish that is both delicious and nutritious. This recipe combines tender slices of liver with a savory sauce made from garlic, leeks, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and herbs. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I will always cherish. It was a sunny afternoon in the late summer when I stumbled upon this delectable dish, a recipe that has now become a staple in my kitchen for many years.

I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, who was known for her incredible cooking skills. As soon as I entered her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of herbs and spices that filled the air. Mrs. Jenkins was busy at the stove, stirring a delicious looking pan of calf's liver. I had never tried this dish before, but the smell alone was enough to make my mouth water.

Curious to learn more, I asked Mrs. Jenkins about the recipe. She smiled warmly and invited me to watch as she prepared the dish. As she explained each step, I could see the passion and love she put into her cooking. It was as if each ingredient was carefully chosen and each technique was executed with precision.

As I watched Mrs. Jenkins cook, I couldn't help but be inspired by her dedication to creating such a flavorful and comforting meal. I knew that I had to try making calf's liver myself, and Mrs. Jenkins was more than happy to share her recipe with me.

The first step was to marinate the calf's liver in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices. Mrs. Jenkins explained that this would infuse the meat with flavor and help tenderize it. As the liver soaked up the marinade, I couldn't help but admire the rich colors and fragrant aromas that filled the kitchen.

Next, Mrs. Jenkins showed me how to sear the liver in a hot skillet until it was browned and crispy on the outside. The sizzle of the meat as it hit the pan was music to my ears, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

Once the liver was cooked to perfection, Mrs. Jenkins served it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed onions. The combination of flavors and textures was simply divine, and I savored every bite with delight.

As I enjoyed my first taste of calf's liver, I couldn't help but feel grateful for Mrs. Jenkins' generosity in sharing her recipe with me. Her passion for cooking had inspired me to try new things and expand my culinary horizons. I knew that this recipe would become a treasured favorite in my own kitchen, and I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

Since that day, I have made calf's liver countless times, each time adding my own personal touch to the recipe. Whether I'm cooking for a special occasion or just craving a comforting meal, this dish never fails to bring joy and satisfaction to those who taste it.

As I look back on that sunny afternoon in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to each other and to our own memories. The simple act of sharing a recipe can create lasting bonds and bring joy to those around us. I am grateful for the gift of this calf's liver recipe, and I will continue to cherish it for many years to come.