This Pan-Fried Beef Liver with Onions and Crispy Potatoes is a timeless dish that combines tender, flavorful liver with sweet caramelized onions and crispy golden potatoes. Packed with nutrients and hearty flavors, it’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Even if you’re not usually a fan of liver, this recipe will change your mind!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Nutritious: Ready in under 30 minutes and loaded with vitamins and minerals.
- Perfect Combination: Sweet onions and crispy potatoes balance the richness of the liver.
- Budget-Friendly: Beef liver is affordable and easy to find.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Ingredients
For the Beef Liver and Onions:
- 1 lb (500g) beef liver, sliced
- 1 cup milk (for soaking the liver)
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Crispy Potatoes:
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Liver
- Soak the Liver:
- Place the liver slices in a bowl of milk and soak for 20-30 minutes. This helps to remove any bitterness and tenderize the liver.
- Pat Dry:
- Drain the liver, pat dry with paper towels, and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the cubed potatoes, season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown (about 15 minutes).
- Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter and add the sliced onions.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown (about 10 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Liver
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each piece of liver in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
- Add olive oil and the remaining 1 tbsp of butter to the skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the liver slices for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Do not overcook, as liver can become tough.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Return the onions to the skillet with the liver, allowing them to heat together for 1-2 minutes.
- Plate the liver and onions alongside the crispy potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Beef Liver
- Soak the Liver: Milk soaking is key to removing bitterness and improving texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Liver is best when cooked just until tender. Overcooking makes it rubbery.
- Use Fresh Liver: Fresher liver has a milder flavor and better texture.
- Season Generously: Bold seasonings like paprika and garlic complement the rich flavor of liver.
Customization Ideas
- Add a Sauce: Serve with a tangy gravy or Dijon mustard sauce for extra flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the skillet with the onions.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 28