This authentic Bulgarian recipe combines tender chicken livers with perfectly sautéed onions, mushrooms, and red peppers (Пилешки дробчета с лук, гъби и чушки), delivering a rich and savory meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients (For Four People)
- 500 grams of chicken livers, cleaned and trimmed
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 200 grams mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Clean and Prep the Chicken Livers
Clean the chicken livers by trimming off any connective tissue and excess fat. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Peppers
Heat 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the sliced onions and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. Remove the onions and peppers from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until they release moisture and brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the onions and peppers.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Livers
Add the cleaned chicken livers to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Add the minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to coat the livers with the spices.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the sautéed onions, red peppers, and mushrooms to the skillet with the chicken livers. Stir everything together and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken livers to cook through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat once the livers are fully cooked and tender. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Tips and Tricks
- Liver Cooking Time: Be careful not to overcook the livers, as they can become tough. The livers should be cooked through but still tender.
- Chef’s Recommendation: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken livers in olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Smoked Paprika: For a smoky depth of flavor, substitute regular paprika with smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is often served with mashed potatoes or fresh crusty bread to soak up the rich juices. A fresh green salad or pickled vegetables – turshia (туршия) makes a great side dish to balance the meal.
Wine Matching
Pair this rich and savory dish with a Bulgarian Merlot or Mavrud. These medium-bodied red wines beautifully complement the deep flavors of the chicken liver and vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Dairy-Free: The recipe contains no dairy products, making it ideal for lactose-intolerant people.
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before serving.
- Freezing: Chicken liver can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
About Chicken Liver with Onions and Peppers (Пилешки дробчета с лук, гъби и чушки)
Chicken liver, or пилешки дробчета, is a staple in Bulgarian cuisine, often cooked with vegetables such as onions, peppers, and mushrooms. This dish is flavorful, nutritious, and budget-friendly, making it famous for weeknight dinners or family meals. Combining earthy mushrooms, sweet red peppers, and tender chicken livers creates a balanced and comforting dish.
Cultural Context
In Bulgaria, chicken livers are a common ingredient in traditional home cooking. Known for their affordability and rich flavor, they are often paired with sautéed vegetables and spices to create a hearty and nutritious meal. Chicken liver dishes are commonly served in homes and restaurants across Bulgaria, usually enjoyed as a main course or as part of a longer dinner during festive occasions.
