Let me tell you a story. I was not a red meat lover ever. Compared to red meat, I liked chicken better. I was quite content with my food preferences till a certain age. But then, I was introduced to beef by a friend. From then on, beef became my new favourite. While every part of beef tastes so yummy, beef liver is something I love making and eating with my full mind and heart. So, as I was preparing to cook my favorite beef liver recipe, I thought of sharing the recipes of my guilty pleasure with you guys. In this blog, I will share my three favorite recipes and also explain how to cook beef liver properly, as this is super important. So come on, let’s dive right into it to make it together. Trust me on this, this is the best! 

Why Cook Beef Liver?

I am well aware that there might be quite a few issues regarding the health aspect of eating beef liver. Let’s start by talking about the benefits first:

• Beef liver is the megastar of nutrition. It’s packed with vitamins A, B12, iron, and folate—great for boosting energy and improving overall health.
• It’s also a fantastic source of protein, as it is greatly helpful in building and repairing muscles.

That said, there are indeed some downsides of beef liver that we need to discuss before moving on to the recipes. Eating too much beef liver can lead to an excess in vitamin A, and its high cholesterol content might not be suitable for everyone. Balance is key! So if you’re ready to try this after knowing the drawbacks, let’s move on to the cooking part.

How to Cook Beef Liver?

Cooking beef liver properly is crucial to get that tender, flavorful result. Here’s how to do it:

1. Selecting the Right Liver

The most important part is selecting the right liver in order to cook a flavorful dish. Pick fresh or high-quality frozen liver. Make sure it has a smooth texture and a deep reddish-brown color. Avoid liver with a strong odor or any discoloration.

2. Preparing the Liver

This step makes all the difference:

• Rinse the liver under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
• Slice it into even pieces, about ¼ to ½ inch thick (thin slices cook evenly).
• Soak it in milk for 30 minutes to an hour (this removes bitterness and tenderizes the meat). Skip this step at your own peril!

3. Cooking Methods

• Frying: If you are a fan of fried beef liver, listen carefully. Dust liver slices lightly with seasoned flour and fry them in butter or oil for 2-3 minutes per side. The key to a perfect fried beef liver is to not overcook it. 
• Sautéing: Another popular method. Heat a pan, add onions and garlic, then cook the liver for a few minutes until just done.
• Grilling: My favourite! Marinate liver slices well with olive oil, lemon juice, and spices, then grill for 2-3 minutes per side.

Cautions:

• Never overcook liver; it becomes tough and grainy.
• Cook over medium-high heat for a nice sear without drying it out.

If you’re still wondering how to cook beef liver, let’s dive into the recipes. 

My 3 Favorite Beef Liver Recipes

1. Classic Liver and Onions

This is the dish that makes me drool every time I make it. To start, I soak the liver in milk for 30 minutes. This takes the edge off the liver. Meanwhile, I thinly slice two large onions and sauté them in butter until they become golden and soft. Once the onions are done, I push them to the side of the pan and add the liver slices. Fry each slice gently for 2-3 minutes per side, just until cooked through (don’t overdo it; you want the liver tender). Finally, season everything with just the right amount of salt and pepper and serve warm. This dish feels like a warm hug on a plate!

2. Garlic Butter Liver

If you are a garlic lover like me, this recipe is going to add a new dimension to your pallet. The start of the recipe is the same as the other ones. You start by preparing the liver by repeating the drill: rinse, slice, and soak. Once you are done, melt a generous amount of butter in a hot pan and sauté minced garlic until the aroma fills the kitchen. Then, add the liver slices and cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side. Wait till the garlic butter seeps into the liver, giving it an incredible flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread. This dish is simple, elegant, and absolutely mouthwatering.

3. Spiced Liver Stir-Fry

This one is for those nights when you want a quick, vibrant dinner packed with flavor. Start by thinly slicing the liver and soaking it in milk (you know the drill) while preparing the veggies. Bell peppers and onions are my go-to for this stir-fry, but you are free to add whatever vegetables you like. In a wok, heat some chili oil and sauté minced ginger and onions until fragrant. Then,  toss in the liver slices and stir-fry them for just 2 minutes in a high flame—remember, quick cooking is key. Finally, add soy sauce and the bell peppers, cooking for another minute. Serve this over steamed rice, and you have a colorful, flavorful dinner ready in no time.

FAQs About Cooking Beef Liver

Q: Why does liver need to be soaked in milk before cooking?

A: Soaking liver in milk might feel like a redundant step, but it helps remove its metallic or bitter taste while tenderizing it. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in flavor.

Q: How do I know when beef liver is fully cooked?

A: This is key. The liver should be cooked until it’s slightly pink in the center. Overcooking can make it tough and grainy, so aim for about 2-3 minutes per side depending on thickness, but use your judgement. 

Q: Can I freeze beef liver?

A: Yes! Beef liver can be frozen both before and after cooking. If freezing raw liver, make sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Cooked liver can be stored in an airtight container for up to three months, although it does lose its vitamin nutrients with time. 

Q: What’s the best way to season liver?

A: Liver pairs well with bold flavors like garlic, onions, black pepper, paprika, and herbs such as parsley or thyme. Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices and marinades.

Q: Is beef liver healthy to eat regularly?

A: It is not recommended. While beef liver is highly nutritious, it’s best to eat it in moderation. Its high vitamin A content can lead to toxicity if consumed in excessive amounts.

Cook Away!

So now that you understand how to cook beef liver properly, experiment with different recipes and cook away! Remember to start with fresh liver, soak it to remove bitterness, and choose the proper cooking method. Whether it’s classic liver and onions, garlic butter liver, or a spiced stir-fry, these recipes are sure to win you over. So go ahead, try it out, and let me know how it turns out. Trust me, once you get it right, you’ll love it as much as I do!