Smothered in caramelized onions and packed with rich, savory flavor, this classic liver and onions dish is the epitome of comfort food.
It’s a timeless recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, satisfying meal.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, the tender liver paired with sweet, golden onions makes for a deliciously nostalgic dish that’s sure to warm both the heart and the stomach.
Smothered Liver and Onions – Comfort Food at Its Finest
Ingredients:
2 cups thinly sliced onions
2-3 Tbsp butter (for onions)
2 Tbsp oil (for onions)
Instructions:
Cook the Onions:
Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft, golden brown, and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
Optional:
After caramelizing, set the onions aside if you’re adding them to liver or another dish.
Enjoy them as a savory topping for liver, steaks, or burgers.
For the best liver and onions, start by soaking the liver in milk for 20-30 minutes before cooking to reduce its bitterness and enhance its tenderness.
Pat the liver dry and season it with salt, pepper, and a bit of paprika for extra flavor.
Use a mix of butter and oil to caramelize the onions, as this combination prevents burning while adding richness.
Cook the onions low and slow until they’re golden and sweet.
When cooking the liver, sear it quickly over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side to keep it tender and avoid overcooking, as liver can become tough if cooked too long.
Finally, deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or wine to create a flavorful sauce that ties the dish together.
To store leftover liver and onions, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, use a skillet over low heat to gently warm the liver and onions, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the dish moist and prevent the liver from drying out.
Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
For longer storage, freeze the liver and onions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for Liver and Onions per serving (based on 4 servings), depending on portion size and ingredients:
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 280-350 kcal
- Protein: 22-25g
- Fat: 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: 8-12g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Sugars: 4-6g
- Cholesterol: 350-400mg
- Sodium: 400-600mg
- Iron: 40-50% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin A: 100-150% of DV
Note: Liver is highly nutritious, rich in protein, iron, vitamin A, and B vitamins, but it is also high in cholesterol. Adjust portion sizes and ingredient choices (like using less butter or oil) to suit your dietary needs.