Turkey liver and heart skewers
Delicious skewers with turkey livers and hearts
If you are a barbecue enthusiast, this recipe for skewers with turkey livers and hearts will surely win you over. It is a simple, flavorful recipe that combines accessible yet very tasty ingredients. These skewers can be served as an appetizer or as a main course, making them perfect for a gathering with friends or a weekend dinner.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Marinating time: 12 hours
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total: 12 hours 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 200 g turkey livers
- 150 g turkey hearts
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 250 g mushrooms (preferably champignon)
- 200 g cherry tomatoes
- 1-2 green onions or scallions (optional)
- Chicken spices (salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder)
- A few sprigs of fresh or dried thyme
- Olive oil for brushing the skewers
History of the dish:
Skewers are a traditional dish in many cultures, often associated with friendship and fun. They have evolved over time, adapting to the ingredients available in each region. Turkey livers and hearts are often underestimated, but they have a rich flavor and delicate texture that are worth exploring.
Preparing the ingredients:
1. Wash the livers: Start by washing the turkey livers well under cold water to remove any impurities. You can let them drain in a sieve.
2. Prepare the hearts: Cut the turkey hearts into cubes about 2 cm in size. They will cook evenly and be easy to skewer.
3. Clean and cut the bell pepper: Remove the seeds and stem of the bell pepper, then cut it into cubes similar in size to the turkey hearts.
4. Prepare the mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms of their stems, being careful not to damage them. If they are large, you can cut them in half.
5. Tomatoes: The cherry tomatoes can be left whole, adding a splash of color and flavor to the skewers.
6. Onion or scallion: If you choose to use onion, cut it into quarters. Scallions can be used whole, skin and all, providing a mild flavor.
Assembling the skewers:
1. Gather all the ingredients and prepare the skewers (if using wooden skewers, it is advisable to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill).
2. Begin assembling the skewers by alternating the ingredients as you like. A suitable combination could be: one mushroom, one liver, one cube of bell pepper, one cherry tomato, one cube of heart, one onion or scallion, then repeat until the skewers are filled.
3. Place the skewers on a platter and brush them with olive oil on all sides.
Marinating:
1. Sprinkle the chicken spices, salt, pepper, and thyme over the skewers. Make sure all ingredients are evenly coated with the spices.
2. Cover the platter with plastic wrap and let the skewers marinate in the refrigerator overnight. This step will give them an intense flavor and richer taste.
Cooking the skewers:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally to brown evenly on all sides. Make sure the livers are well cooked, but do not let them become too dry.
3. When the skewers are ready, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
Serving:
These skewers with turkey livers and hearts can be served warm, alongside a fresh salad, a serving of rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also add a yogurt sauce with mint or a garlic mayonnaise for an extra touch of freshness.
Variations:
- Replace turkey livers with chicken livers or pork for a different version.
- You can add seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant to diversify the flavor of the skewers.
- For a spicy taste, add a few slices of chili pepper between the ingredients of the skewers.
Nutritional benefits:
Turkey livers are an excellent source of protein, vitamin A, and iron, essential for the body's health. Turkey hearts are rich in nutrients, and the vegetables used add fiber and vitamins necessary for a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace turkey meat with chicken, veal, or pork, depending on your preferences.
2. Can I make the skewers in the oven?
Sure! Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius and place the skewers on a tray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.
3. How can I store leftover skewers?
Cooked skewers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
Feel free to experiment with this recipe and adapt it as you wish. Whether you choose to add new ingredients or change the serving method, your skewers will surely be a success! Enjoy!
Ingredients: 200g turkey liver, 150g turkey hearts, 1 yellow bell pepper, red cherry tomatoes, 250g mushrooms for skewers