Chicken Liver Parfait with Hazelnuts

Name: Chicken Liver Parfait with Hazelnuts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 170 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 500 g chicken livers (trimmed of fat and sinew); 200 g unsalted butter (softened); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 shallot (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 60 ml brandy; 60 ml heavy cream; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1/4 tsp nutmeg (freshly grated); 100 g hazelnuts (toasted and chopped)

170 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

A creamy and rich chicken liver parfait with a delightful crunch of hazelnuts, perfect for a sophisticated appetizer.

Prep

20 min

Cook

30 min

Total

170 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

The Chicken Liver Parfait with Hazelnuts is a luxurious starter that combines the silky smoothness of a liver parfait with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts. This dish is a fantastic way to elevate any meal, offering a rich depth of flavour and an elegant presentation. Originating from French cuisine, a parfait is a smooth paste made primarily from liver, butter, and seasoning. The addition of hazelnuts introduces a delightful textural contrast, making each bite a harmonious blend of creamy and crunchy. It's a perfect choice for those looking to impress guests with a gourmet appetizer.

Instructions

Prepare the chicken livers

Rinse the chicken livers under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim away any fat or sinew.

Pro tip: Ensure chicken livers are fresh for the best flavour.

Sauté the aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Pro tip: Do not brown the garlic to avoid bitterness.

Cook the livers

Increase heat to medium-high and add the chicken livers. Sauté until browned on the outside but still pink inside, around 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Livers should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Deglaze the pan

Pour in the brandy and cook for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

Pro tip: Be cautious as alcohol can ignite.

Blend the mixture

Transfer the liver mixture to a blender. Add softened butter, cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Pro tip: For an extra smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine sieve.

Incorporate hazelnuts and chill

Fold in the chopped hazelnuts. Pour into a terrine or serving dish, smoothing the top. Cover and refrigerate until set, at least 2 hours.

Pro tip: Chilling overnight enhances the flavour.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh chicken livers for the best flavour and texture.
Toast the hazelnuts for added depth and aroma.
Chill the parfait thoroughly for easy slicing.
Serve with crusty bread or crackers for texture contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is chicken liver parfait?

It is a creamy spread made from chicken livers, butter, and seasonings, often served as an appetizer.

How do I ensure chicken livers are safe to eat?

Cook chicken livers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety.

Can I make chicken liver parfait ahead of time?

Yes, it's best made a day ahead to allow flavours to meld, and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How should I serve chicken liver parfait?

Serve chilled with fresh bread or crackers. Pair with a tangy salad or a glass of white wine.

Can I freeze chicken liver parfait?

Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture and flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chicken Liver Parfait with Hazelnuts alongside freshly baked baguette slices or crisp crackers to complement its rich flavours. A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance the richness of the parfait. This dish can be prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavours to meld beautifully. Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For an added touch, pair it with a chilled glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.