simple liver and onions recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best simple liver and onions recipe

I’ve been making liver and onions for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. The dish has a rich history, originating in Europe where it was considered a staple meat.

The flavor and texture are unique, with the liver providing a nice contrast to the sweetness of the onions. To make this recipe, you’ll need to start by browning the liver in a pan, then set it aside and sauté the onions until they’re caramelized.

This technique is key to bringing out the full flavor of the dish. Once the onions are done, you can add back in the liver and serve it up with your favorite sides.

I like to serve mine with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Simple Liver and Onions

Simple Liver and Onions

4.6 from 608 votes

A classic dish of tender calf’s liver and sweet caramelized onions in a savory pan sauce. This recipe delivers a comforting meal that is quick to prepare and full of rich flavor.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Liver and Onions

1 pound calf’s liver, sliced 1/2 inch thick
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the liver slices dry with paper towels.
2In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, and pepper.
3Dredge each liver slice in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess, and set aside on a plate.
4In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
5Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until they are soft and golden brown.
6Transfer the caramelized onions to a bowl and set aside.
7Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet over medium-high heat.
8Once the butter is sizzling, place the liver slices in the skillet in a single layer.
9Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until the liver is browned on the outside but still slightly pink in the center.
10Do not overcook.
11Return the caramelized onions to the skillet with the liver.
12Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
13Cook for 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
14Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Mixing bowl
Tongs
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 350mg🧂Sodium: 500mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For the best texture, do not overcook the liver; it should remain slightly pink inside. You can substitute beef liver for calf’s liver, but it will have a stronger flavor. Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the pan sauce.

Watch Video Of How Simple Liver and Onions Works

This simple liver and onions recipe is a great addition to any meal. It’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

You can store leftover cooked liver in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply cook it in a pan with some oil until heated through.

Serve it with your favorite sides for a delicious meal that’s sure to please.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Liver and Onions

Q: What type of liver is best to use for this recipe?

A: You can use either beef or pork liver for this recipe, but beef liver tends to be milder in flavor. If you’re new to cooking with liver, you may want to start with beef liver to get used to the taste.

Q: Can I use frozen liver?

A: Yes, you can use frozen liver for this recipe. Just thaw it out first and pat it dry with paper towels before using.

Q: How long does it take to cook the liver?

A: The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the slices, but generally, it takes about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by browning the liver and cooking the onions separately. Then, just assemble everything together before serving.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

A: No, this recipe is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans as it contains animal products.

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