This recipe transforms chicken gizzards into a deeply satisfying, wellness-enhanced dish that’s both hearty and healing. The gizzards are slow-cooked until tender, then simmered in a rich gravy infused with garlic, turmeric, ginger, and warming spices. The result is a dish that not only delights the palate but also supports digestion, boosts immunity, and nourishes the body with essential minerals. Served with steamed rice, millet, or gluten-free flatbread, it’s a perfect example of food as medicine—rooted in heritage and elevated with therapeutic ingredients.
🧂 INGREDIENTS:
For the Gizzards:
- 500g chicken gizzards, cleaned and trimmed
- 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice (for soaking)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Water for boiling
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons mustard oil or olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1 green chili, slit (optional)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Kashmiri chili powder (for color)
- 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- ½ cup water or bone broth
🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
- Clean and Pre-Boil the Gizzards:
Rinse the gizzards thoroughly and soak them in water with vinegar or lemon juice for 15 minutes to remove any residual odor. Drain and place in a pot with fresh water and 1 teaspoon salt. Boil for 20–25 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Base:
Heat mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan until it begins to smoke slightly (if using olive oil, skip this step). Reduce heat and add chopped onions. Sauté until golden brown. - Add Aromatics:
Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chili. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Add turmeric, coriander, cumin, paprika, and garam masala. Toast the spices gently to release their oils and deepen the flavor. - Build the Gravy:
Add pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil begins to separate from the masala—about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt and add water or bone broth to adjust consistency. - Simmer the Gizzards:
Add the boiled gizzards to the gravy and stir well to coat. Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the gizzards to absorb the spiced gravy. - Finish and Garnish:
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
🌿 WELLNESS NOTES:
- Iron Boost: Gizzards are rich in heme iron, which is more bioavailable than plant-based sources—ideal for those with anemia or fatigue.
- Digestive Support: Ginger and turmeric aid digestion and reduce inflammation.
- Immunity: Garlic and onion offer antimicrobial benefits and support immune health.
- Protein-Rich: A great option for those on high-protein diets or recovering from illness.
🍽️ SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Serve with steamed basmati rice, millet, or gluten-free roti.
- Pair with a side of fermented vegetables or yogurt for gut health.
- For a complete wellness plate, add sautéed greens like spinach or fenugreek.
Would you like a version adapted for vegan diets using mushrooms or jackfruit? Or perhaps a bone broth-enhanced stew for deeper nourishment? I’d love to help you evolve this into a signature dish for your community!