Classic Beef Liver and Onions is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together tender beef liver, savory onions, and a rich blend of seasonings. This classic recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal. Whether you’re a longtime liver lover or trying it for the first time, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds and provide you with a nourishing meal. The dish is often paired with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, making it a complete and fulfilling meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef liver, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for dredging)
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water (for deglazing)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing the beef liver. If necessary, remove any connective tissue or membranes from the liver slices, then rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow dish, season the liver slices with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. For a crispier texture, lightly dredge the seasoned liver slices in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the liver slices to the pan. Cook the liver for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned, but still slightly pink in the center. Be careful not to overcook the liver, as it can become tough and dry.
- Remove the cooked liver from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced onions to the same skillet. Sauté the onions in the remaining oil for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft, caramelized, and golden brown.
- Once the onions are cooked, return the liver slices to the skillet, nestling them among the onions. Pour in the beef broth or water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the beef liver and onions hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.
Classic Beef Liver and Onions is a satisfying and nutrient-rich dish, offering a wonderful combination of tender liver, sweet caramelized onions, and savory flavors. The rich iron content of the liver, combined with the natural sweetness of the onions, creates a delightful contrast in textures and tastes. This recipe is not only simple but also quick to prepare, making it a great option for a wholesome and filling dinner. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your loved ones, this classic dish will bring comfort and nourishment to the table.