Sometimes, the most satisfying meals come from humble ingredients that are often overlooked. Beef Liver and Oat Fritters with Vegetables is one such dish that takes underrated ingredients and transforms them into a hearty, flavorful, and nutritious meal. Beef liver, packed with iron and essential vitamins, is the star of this recipe, perfectly complemented by the earthy oats, sweet carrots, and savory onions. The addition of mozzarella cheese offers a delightful creaminess, while the blend of spices like paprika and black pepper brings depth and warmth to each bite.
This dish combines a few simple ingredients to create something greater than the sum of its parts. Beef liver often gets a bad rap for its strong flavor, but when prepared correctly, it’s tender, flavorful, and rich in nutrients. By pairing it with oats and a medley of fresh vegetables, the liver is made more palatable, appealing to even the most skeptical eaters.
The versatility of this dish makes it a timeless classic. It can be served as a main course for lunch or dinner, or even enjoyed as a breakfast option for those looking for a protein-packed start to their day. It’s also a great way to incorporate organ meats into your diet, which are often much more nutrient-dense than conventional cuts of meat.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- For the Fritters:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) beef liver
- 50 ml melted butter
- 200 g oat flakes (rolled oats)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated or finely chopped
- 10 g garlic, minced
- 7 g salt (adjust to taste)
- 7 g black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 300 g cabbage, shredded
- 10 g parsley, chopped
- 10 g scallions, chopped
- 3 eggs
- 7 g sweet paprika
- 5 g additional salt (for seasoning)
- 5 g black pepper (for seasoning)
- 50 g mozzarella cheese, grated
Steps to Make Beef Liver and Oat Fritters with Vegetables:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Liver
- Clean and Slice the Liver:
- Begin by cleaning the beef liver. Trim off any membranes, veins, or connective tissues. Slice the liver into small chunks or strips to make it easier to process.
- If you’re new to preparing liver, it may help to soak it in milk for 30 minutes to reduce any bitterness and make it more tender. After soaking, drain and pat dry.
- Cook the Liver:
- In a large pan, heat a little butter or oil over medium heat. Add the liver pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until the liver is browned and cooked through. The liver should be tender but not overcooked, as it can become tough and dry.
- Once cooked, remove the liver from the pan and allow it to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, chop it into small pieces or pulse in a food processor for a finer texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Oats
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pan used for the liver, add a little more butter or oil if needed. Sauté the onion, carrot, and garlic over medium heat for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Once the vegetables are softened, add the shredded cabbage and continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, just until the cabbage begins to wilt.
- Prepare the Oats:
- In a separate bowl, soak the oat flakes in a small amount of water or milk for about 10 minutes until they soften. This will help them blend seamlessly into the fritter mixture and provide a better texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Fritters
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked liver, sautéed vegetables, soaked oats, parsley, scallions, paprika, and the grated mozzarella cheese. Add the eggs, salt, and black pepper, then mix well until everything is fully incorporated. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
- If the mixture feels too loose, you can add a little more oats or a small amount of flour to bind it.
- Form the Fritters:
- Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into small patties or fritters. Aim for a size that’s easy to flip but still substantial enough to hold together during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Fritters
- Pan-Fry the Fritters:
- Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add the melted butter or oil. Place the fritters in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Depending on the size of your fritters, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain and Serve:
- Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley or scallions if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
KCAL per Serving (Approximate):
Each serving of these fritters contains roughly 250-300 kcal, depending on the size of the fritters and the amount of oil used for cooking.
Servings:
This recipe yields about 4-6 servings.
Explanation of the Recipe and Why It’s Timeless:
The combination of beef liver with oats, vegetables, and spices in this dish is a true testament to how humble ingredients can create something spectacular. Beef liver, often overlooked in modern cooking, is an excellent source of iron, B vitamins, and protein, making it a highly nutritious choice for those looking to boost their iron intake. Oats provide a heart-healthy component, while vegetables like carrots, onions, and cabbage add vitamins, minerals, and fiber, balancing the richness of the liver with fresh, light flavors.
What makes this recipe truly timeless is its ability to bring together diverse elements – from the earthiness of liver to the sweetness of the vegetables – into one cohesive and satisfying meal. The mozzarella adds a creamy, indulgent touch that makes the fritters feel even more special. This is the kind of dish that can be adapted to suit any palate, and it remains a staple in many homes due to its simplicity and the comforting, nourishing qualities it offers.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving):
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 20-25 g
- Fat: 15-18 g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 g
- Fiber: 3-4 g
- Sodium: 600-700 mg
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef liver?
Yes, you can substitute the beef liver with chicken liver or turkey liver if you prefer a milder taste. Other ground meats can also work, but they will alter the flavor and texture of the fritters.
2. Can I make these fritters in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the fritters in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in a pan or oven to regain their crispiness.
3. Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the fritters at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden and crispy on the outside. For a healthier option, this is a great choice.
Tips on How to Make:
- Use Fresh Liver: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh liver rather than frozen. Fresh liver is more tender and has a better overall taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Liver: Overcooking beef liver can make it tough and dry. Aim for a slight pinkness inside to keep it tender.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. Add more paprika for heat or more garlic for an extra punch of flavor.
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a pan or the oven to preserve their crispy texture.
- If you want to freeze the fritters, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion:
Beef Liver and Oat Fritters with Vegetables is a delicious, wholesome meal that brings together rich flavors, nourishing ingredients, and timeless appeal. Whether you’re introducing organ meats to your family or just looking for a hearty, flavorful dish, this recipe delivers in every way. It’s simple to make, packed with nutrients, and full of vibrant flavors that will leave everyone at the table satisfied. With its versatility and adaptability, this dish is sure to remain a favorite for years to come, nourishing both body and soul.