Savory chicken liver and blue cheese pate recipe
Home chefs, foodies and entertainers alike, get ready to indulge in one of my all-time favorite dishes: Chicken Liver and Blue Cheese Pate. This rich, flavorful appetizer is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests.
As a lover of entertaining, I have always been drawn to recipes that offer elegance and sophistication without overwhelming the cook or breaking the bank. This stunning pate fits that bill perfectly.
A classic French dish, chicken liver pate has been a favorite of mine for years. However, I’ve added a twist by incorporating tangy blue cheese to balance out the earthiness of the liver. The brandy and fresh thyme add a lovely depth of flavor that will have everyone clamoring for more.
But don’t be intimidated by the fancy ingredients – this recipe is far easier than you may expect. In just a few simple steps, you can create a beautiful homemade pate that will rival any gourmet delicacy.
So grab your apron, turn up the music, and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Introducing you to the Chicken Liver and Blue Cheese Pate Recipe – a dish that is sure to impress your guests and tantalize their taste buds. This is a delightful recipe that will have you savoring every bite, with juicy chicken liver and the robust flavor of blue cheese. Here are a few reasons why this pate recipe is guaranteed to make you fall in love with it:
Firstly, the combination of chicken liver and blue cheese results in a unique flavor that will leave your guests craving for more. The creamy texture of the pate paired with tangy blue cheese creates an unbeatable flavor profile that will leave everyone begging for the recipe.
Secondly, this recipe is easy to follow and can be made in less than an hour, making it a perfect party appetizer. You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time, thereby reducing panic on the day of your event.
Thirdly, this chicken liver pate recipe is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a dip for bread or crostini, put it on steak or sandwiches to take your lunch game up a notch or even use it as a topping for grilled vegetables.
Lastly, with simple substitutions and variations you can easily adjust the flavors of this pate to suit any palate. Customize it by adding some bacon bits, chives or even mushrooms, giving you endless possibilities to put your own spin on this delicious dish.
In summary, if you are looking for an easy yet sophisticated dish that will blow your guest’s mind away then look no further than the Chicken Liver and Blue Cheese Pate Recipe. It’s rich in flavor, easy to prepare and serves as the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredient List
Here is a list of ingredients that you’ll need to make this indulgent Chicken Liver and Blue Cheese Pate:
- 1 pound chicken livers, halved and trimmed
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons brandy
- 4 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
- 1 1/4 stick butter
- 2 cups onions, chopped (1 lb)
- 3/4 cup cream cheese
- Cornichons, for serving
You will also need some basic pantry staples such as salt, pepper, milk, and a little melted butter. These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy pate that will surprise and delight your guests.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we’ve covered why chicken liver and blue cheese pate is a great addition to your next party spread, let’s dive into the details of how to create this delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 grams) of chicken livers, halved and trimmed
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons of brandy
- ¼ pound (113 grams) of blue cheese
- 1 ¼ sticks (141 grams) of unsalted butter, divided into 1 tablespoon and 1/4 cup portions
- 2 cups (300 grams) of chopped onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- First, soak the chicken livers in milk for at least two hours. This will help improve the flavor and texture of the final dish.
- After soaking, drain the chicken livers and pat them dry. Then, season with salt and pepper.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it begins to foam. Add chopped onions and cook until softened and lightly caramelized, about 10 minutes.
- Add the chicken livers to the pan with the onions, stirring occasionally until they are cooked through but not overdone.
- Remove from heat and transfer the contents of the pan into a food processor.
- Add 1/4 cup each of blue cheese and unsalted butter to the food processor along with chopped fresh thyme and brandy.
- Process until everything is combined and smooth, approximately 2 minutes or so.
- Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed, adding additional salt or pepper if necessary.
- Transfer mixture to a ramekin or small serving dish, then smooth out top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
Pro Tip: For added presentation points, consider topping your pate with additional crumbled blue cheese or chopped fresh thyme.
And voila – your homemade chicken liver and blue cheese pate is ready to impress your guests!
Substitutions and Variations
While this recipe is already full of unique and irresistible flavors, there are a few substitutions and variations you can make to create your own personalized version of chicken liver pate.
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can easily swap it out for another type of cheese such as goat cheese, feta or Parmesan. You can also use a combination of cheeses to add more complexity to the dish.
For those who prefer a sweeter version, try adding a touch of honey or maple syrup to the mixture. Alternatively, you can incorporate roasted garlic for a smoother, more savory flavor.
Bourbon chicken liver pate is also a popular variation that uses bourbon instead of brandy. The addition of bourbon gives the dish a subtle sweetness while balancing out the savory taste of the liver.
Finally, for an extra indulgent dish, try making chicken liver mousse instead of pate. To achieve this, simply mix in some cream cheese to make it more spreadable and serve it on crostini with a side of bread or crackers.
With these creative substitutions and variations, you can take this classic recipe and make it truly your own, impressing your guests with your culinary prowess.
Serving and Pairing
If you’re looking for a versatile and delicious appetizer, this chicken liver and blue cheese pate is an excellent choice. This pate can be served in many different ways, depending on the occasion and your preferences. Here are some suggestions for how you can enjoy this dish.
Firstly, consider serving the pate on toasted bread or crostini. This will provide a crisp and crunchy texture against the creamy pate. You can use any type of bread, but we recommend something sturdy like sourdough or a baguette.
For an added touch of luxury, add some truffle oil to the pate once it has been cooked. The earthy aroma of truffles complements the rich flavors of chicken liver and blue cheese perfectly. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and freshness.
Pairing is key when it comes to enjoying this dish to its fullest. A light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc are excellent choices to complement the pate’s savory flavor. For those who prefer spirits, a high-quality bourbon or whiskey would be perfect with the brandy-infused pate.
You can also serve it with some acidic accompaniments like cornichons or pickles, which provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pate. Adding some fruit such as apple slices or grapes is also an option that brings out the sweetness in the flavor profile.
No matter how you decide to serve this decadent chicken liver and blue cheese pate, it is sure to impress and satisfy your guests’ palates. It is perfect for anyone who loves homemade pates and liver mousse that offers sensational flavors in every bite.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
This Chicken Liver and Blue Cheese Pate recipe can be made ahead of time and stored for up to one week. Once the pate has been prepared, you can put it in an airtight container and refrigerate it immediately. It’s best to store the pate in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving, as this allows for the flavors to deepen and blend together.
When reheating the pate, it’s important to do so gradually and gently. Take the pate out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before reheating. You could use a double boiler or a microwave oven set to low power to reheat the pate. Be cautious not to overheat it, or it may become dry and lose its texture.
If you’re hosting a party, this dish can be assembled up to two days ahead of time, which will save you a lot of time on the day of your event. To serve, place the pate on small bite-size pieces of bread or crostini. For a pretty presentation, add a dollop of blue cheese butter or some cornichons on top.
Don’t worry about having leftovers; they can serve as a delicious snack throughout the week. You could also use them as an ingredient in other recipes like liver mousse or chopped liver. There are many cream cheese recipes available online that specifically feature chicken liver pate as an essential ingredient, so feel free to explore. Overall, this recipe is versatile, delicious and perfect for any home chef who loves entertaining guests at parties.
Tips for Perfect Results
For those who crave a rich and creamy delicacy, making chicken liver and blue cheese pate might be just what the doctor ordered. But even the most seasoned chefs can use some tips to ensure that their homemade pate is perfect each time. Here are a few recommendations to achieve the best results.
Firstly, it’s important to remember to soak the chicken livers in milk prior to cooking, which helps remove any bitter flavors while adding richness and smoothness to the final product. A little melted butter can also help balance out any strong or overpowering flavors that you might encounter with the addition of brandy or blue cheese.
Another trick that can make your chicken liver and blue cheese pate pop is by simply adding some chopped fresh thyme to your recipe. The herb will infuse the pate with subtle yet savory flavors that balance out the natural richness of chicken liver.
When making liver pâté, using high-quality ingredients is key. Always try to find fresh, high-quality chicken livers from a reputable supplier. In addition, brands like Kerrygold butter and quality cream cheese can take your recipe to another level by adding depth and creaminess.
Last but not least, don’t limit yourself with serving options when it comes to chicken liver and blue cheese pate. From homemade crostini to fresh bread slices, this dish pairs well with a variety of options. To help cut through the richness of the pate, consider pairing it with pickles or other briny accompaniments like cornichons or olives.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating your own delicious and impressive chicken liver and blue cheese pate.
FAQ
Before we wrap up our chicken liver and blue cheese pate recipe, let’s take a moment to answer some frequently asked questions that you may have about this decadent dish. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a newbie cook, we hope these helpful insights will help guide you along the way as you prepare this crowd-pleasing pate at your next party or gathering.
How long will homemade chicken liver pâté keep in the fridge?
To extend the shelf life of your chicken liver pâté, ensure it is properly stored in the refrigerator. To store it for up to a week, ensure it is tightly covered. For storage that exceeds a week but not longer than a month, it is recommended to pour a small amount of melted lard or clarified butter on top to act as a sealant. It is crucial to remember to seal the pâté after each use to guarantee it stays fresh for a longer duration.
Why do you put butter on top of pâté?
Adding more butter to the pâté enhances its texture, resulting in a smoother consistency.
What’s the difference between liver pate and Parfait?
Parfait and pate are quite similar, but the key difference is that parfait is smooth while pate can be a bit more textured. For the freshest possible flavor, it’s best to seek out free-range chicken liver from a trusted butcher. When making your own parfait at home, it’s important to store it properly by pouring it into a jar and adding a layer of melted butter on top to prevent it from oxidizing.
Should you soak chicken livers in milk?
When preparing chicken livers, it’s recommended to soak them in milk beforehand. This step accomplishes two things: it softens the texture and eliminates any unwanted taste. Simply submerge the livers in a dish of chilly milk and let them soak for around 20-30 minutes. Once complete, dispose of the milk and they’re ready to cook. Keep this tip in mind for your next gathering!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Chicken Liver and Blue Cheese Pate Recipe is a must-try for any home chef looking to impress their guests with a delicious and unique appetizer. This recipe’s combination of rich chicken liver, sharp blue cheese, and fragrant fresh thyme creates a decadent pâté that will leave your taste buds dancing.
While this recipe may seem intimidating at first glance, following the step-by-step instructions and using the tips and recommendations provided will ensure that you end up with a show-stopping dish. Plus, with its versatility in terms of substitutions and variations, you can tailor the recipe to meet your preferences or experiment with different flavours.
Whether made ahead of time or served immediately, this pâté is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any party or gathering. And with its ability to store in the fridge for up to one week or longer, there’s no reason not to indulge in this homemade delight more than once.
So why not give this recipe a try? With its bold flavours and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favourite amongst your guests and loved ones. Trust me; you won’t regret it.
Chicken Liver and Blue Cheese Pate Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 1/2 cups chopped onions
- 1 lb chicken liver, halved and trimmed
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons brandy
- 4 ounces blue cheese, crunbled
Instructions
- Line 2 cup dish or mold with plastic wrap, leaving overhang.
- Melt butter in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and saute until beginning to brown, about 6 minutes.
- Sprinkle livers with salt and pepper. Add livers and thyme to skillet. Saute until livers are no longer pink in center, about 10 minutes. Remove skillet from heat. Add brandy; scrape up any browned bits.
- Place contents of skillet in food processor. Add cheese and blend until smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Pack pate into prepared dish. Cover and chill in refrigerator for 1 day. Unmold to serve with cracker or baguette rounds.
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!