Liver Italian Style
Liver Italian Style features tender beef liver cooked with a flavorful sage gravy, diced ham, and fresh parsley, creating a hearty and savory dish ideal for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Flour the liver and sauté until browned.
- Remove the liver from the pan, then sauté the chopped onion.
- Dissolve the beef bouillon cube in hot water to make broth.
- Add the broth and flour to the onion to create a gravy.
- Stir in sage, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Return the liver and diced cooked ham to the pan and simmer together for approximately 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the liver is well-floured to create a nice crust when sautéed. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the liver in milk for 30 minutes before cooking. You can substitute the beef bouillon cube with homemade broth for a richer taste. If you're looking for a shortcut, try adding ingredients from other Italian recipes like capers or olives for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the liver Italian style alongside creamy mashed potatoes or polenta to balance the dish's richness. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add brightness. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Easy Ziti Casserole or Saucepan Spaghetti to round out the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the liver and gravy in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Cover the skillet to prevent the liver from drying out while warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Liver Italian Style contains roughly 891 calories, with 16g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2415mg per serving (105% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken liver instead of beef liver for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken liver, but adjust the cooking time as chicken liver cooks faster. Sauté until just browned and tender, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
What can I serve with liver to make it a complete meal?
Liver pairs well with starchy sides like polenta or mashed potatoes. Adding a side of sautéed greens or roasted vegetables will complement the dish nicely and provide a nutritious balance. A glass of red wine can enhance the meal further.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can increase the flour amount slightly or add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the gravy while simmering until it reaches your desired consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).