Liver sautéed with garlic and polenta

Chicken livers, rich in flavor with an intense garlic aroma, accompanied by a soft and creamy polenta - here is a recipe that combines tradition with taste. This dish is not only delicious but also very easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick and hearty dinner.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 2-3 servings

A brief history of the recipe

Chicken livers are a popular ingredient in kitchens around the world, with a long history. They have been consumed for centuries due to their high nutritional value, being an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Livers are often combined with garlic, which not only adds intense flavor but also health benefits, including antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Polenta, in turn, is a traditional dish that symbolizes comfort and hospitality.

Ingredients

- 500 g chicken livers
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 200 g cornmeal (for polenta)
- 800 ml water (for polenta)
- A tablespoon of sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill, for garnish)

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Preparing the livers

1. Wash the livers: Start by washing the livers well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any visible membranes or fat.

2. Drying: After washing, place them on a paper towel to dry. This step is important, as wet livers will not brown evenly.

3. Heating the oil: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. The oil should be well heated before adding the livers.

4. Frying the livers: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the livers one by one to avoid splattering. Let them fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until they change color and become slightly browned. Caution: do not leave them too long in the pan, as they risk becoming dry and tough.

Step 2: Preparing the garlic sauce

1. Make the sauce: While the livers are frying, peel the garlic cloves and lightly crush them with a knife. Place them in a small bowl and add a cup of water and salt. Mix well.

2. Adding the sauce: Once the livers are browned, pour the garlic sauce over them. Let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes for the flavors to combine.

Step 3: Preparing the polenta

1. Boil the water: In a separate pot, add 800 ml of water and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil.

2. Add the cornmeal: When the water starts to boil, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring continuously with a whisk or wooden spoon to avoid lumps.

3. Cook the polenta: Continue stirring for 5-7 minutes until the polenta becomes creamy and thick. If you prefer a softer polenta, you can add a little more water.

Step 4: Serving

1. Assembly: On a plate, place a generous layer of polenta, then add the livers on top. You can add a tablespoon of sour cream for extra creaminess.

2. Decoration: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or dill on top for a touch of freshness.

3. Enjoy: Serve the dish warm, alongside a green salad for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical tips

- Fresh livers: Always choose fresh livers for better taste. Check the expiration date and make sure they do not have an unpleasant smell.
- Perfect polenta: If you want a softer polenta, you can add more water or milk during preparation. Also, for a special flavor, you can add butter to the polenta.
- Wine version: If you want to try a more sophisticated version, you can add a splash of dry white wine to the skillet after frying the livers, letting it evaporate to intensify the flavors.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can the livers be frozen?
Yes, the livers can be frozen. Make sure they are well packaged to prevent freezer burn.

2. What to do if the livers are still raw?
If at the end the livers are not cooked enough, you can let them simmer in the garlic sauce for a few more minutes.

3. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! This recipe can also be adapted to other organs, such as beef or lamb liver, but the cooking time may vary.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Chicken livers are an excellent source of protein, containing about 120 calories per 100 g. They are rich in iron, vitamin A, vitamin B12, and folic acid, having important benefits for blood health and the immune system. Polenta, on the other hand, provides complex carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for energy.

Delicious combinations

This recipe pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine or craft beer. Additionally, a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers with olive oil and balsamic vinegar will add a touch of freshness and complement the meal.

Fried livers with garlic and polenta are not only a delicious dish but also a recipe that combines tradition with authentic taste, perfect for enjoying quietly with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!