This recipe creates tender and flavorful braised chicken gizzards. Gizzards are a lean and inexpensive cut of meat that benefits from slow cooking. This recipe uses aromatics and broth to create a rich and savory dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken gizzards, cleaned
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Gizzards: Rinse the chicken gizzards and remove any tough membranes or connective tissue. Cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces if desired.
- Sear the Gizzards: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the gizzards and sear them on all sides until browned. Remove the gizzards from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Gizzards and Liquids: Return the seared gizzards to the pot. Add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using).
- Braise: Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the gizzards are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed to keep the gizzards submerged.
- Check for Tenderness: The gizzards are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the braising liquid and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve the braised chicken gizzards with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Tips and Variations:
- Pressure Cooker: You can cook the gizzards in a pressure cooker for about 30-40 minutes for a faster cooking time.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Tomato Sauce: Add a can of diced tomatoes or tomato sauce for a richer, tomato-based braising liquid.
- Vegetables: Add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or potatoes to the braising liquid.
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, you can thicken it with a slurry of cornstarch and water at the end of cooking.
- Red Wine: Use red wine instead of white wine for a deeper flavor.
Enjoy your tender and flavorful Braised Chicken Gizzards!