Minced bird offal
Bird offal loaf - a traditional holiday delicacy
Bird offal loaf is a classic dish, rich in flavor and tradition, that highlights the authentic tastes of fresh ingredients. This recipe that I will share with you is one I have prepared over the years, always bringing a touch of joy and nostalgia to every holiday meal. Although it is often associated with festive gatherings, the loaf can be enjoyed at any time of the year, making it an excellent choice for an appetizer or a light lunch.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 8
Ingredients
- 800 g bird gizzards and hearts
- 1000 g bird liver
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 12 green onions
- 8 green garlic stalks
- 1 bunch fresh parsley
- 1 bunch fresh dill
- 5 eggs for mixing
- 4 hard-boiled eggs
- 50 ml oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Necessary utensils
- A large pot for boiling
- A food processor or a sharp knife
- A large mixing bowl
- Two loaf pans
- Parchment paper
- A spatula or wooden spoon
Nutritional information
This dish is rich in protein due to the bird offal, making it an excellent source of iron and B vitamins. It also contains fresh herbs that add not only flavor but also antioxidants. Considering the ingredients, a serving of the loaf has approximately 250 calories, but this number can vary depending on how it is prepared.
Preparing the loaf
Step 1: Preparing the offal
Start by washing the gizzards and hearts thoroughly under cold running water. It is essential to remove any impurities to ensure your loaf will be tasty and healthy. Place the offal in a large pot, add water and a little salt, then boil over medium heat for 30 minutes or until tender. After boiling, drain and let them cool.
Step 2: Chopping the ingredients
Once the offal has cooled, place it in the food processor and chop finely. If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a sharp knife, but make sure to chop evenly. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl.
At this point, it’s time to prepare the aromatic vegetables. Finely chop the green onions, green garlic, parsley, and dill, then add them to the bowl with the offal. These ingredients will give the loaf a fresh and vibrant flavor.
Step 3: Combining the ingredients
Add the cooked rice, the 5 raw eggs, oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Use a wooden spoon to mix all the ingredients well. Make sure everything is evenly distributed so that every bite is full of flavor.
Step 4: Preparing the pans
Soak two sheets of parchment paper in warm water to make them more flexible. Line the two loaf pans with the paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the edges to cover the loaf later. Grease the pans with a little oil to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Assembling the loaf
Divide the mixture into two equal parts. Place half of the mixture in each pan, leveling it well. Then, add the 4 whole boiled eggs, pressing them gently, and fill with the remaining mixture. Level again to achieve a smooth surface.
Step 6: Baking
Cover the pans with the overhanging parchment paper and place them in the preheated oven at 180°C for 30-35 minutes. Then, remove the paper on top to allow the loaf to brown. Leave it in the oven for another 5 minutes until it develops a nice golden crust.
Step 7: Cooling and serving
Once the loaf is ready, take the pans out of the oven and let it cool in the pans for about 15-20 minutes. This step is essential to allow it to stabilize and be easier to cut. After it has cooled, you can turn it out onto a platter.
The loaf is served cold, garnished with green salad leaves, green onions, or radishes, adding a touch of freshness. It is perfect alongside wine vinegar or mustard for a savory contrast.
Variations and tips
To add a personal touch, you can experiment with different herbs or add some finely chopped mushrooms to the mixture. Also, if you want a lighter version, you can replace part of the offal with finely chopped vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace the bird offal with pork or beef, but the cooking time will vary.
2. How can I preserve the loaf?
The loaf keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can portion it and freeze it for later consumption.
3. Can the loaf be prepared in advance?
Yes, the loaf can be prepared a day before serving, making it ideal for festive meals.
So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this flavorful and traditional bird offal loaf. It is not just a recipe but a story that brings together people and memories. Enjoy every bite!
Ingredients: 800 g chicken gizzards and hearts, 1000 g chicken liver, 1 cup boiled rice, 12 green onions, 8 green garlic stalks, 1 bunch of fresh parsley, 1 bunch of fresh dill, 5 eggs for mixing, 4 hard-boiled eggs, 50 ml oil, salt and pepper to taste
