Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering Italian delicacy that transforms humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece! These succulent chicken liver and red pepper skewers are not just a recipe—they're a journey through the vibrant streets of Italy, where every bite tells a story of tradition, flavor, and passion. Whether you're a bold food adventurer or a curious home cook looking to impress, this spiedini will transport you straight to a bustling Roman trattoria with its rich, aromatic profile and stunning presentation.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken livers
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers
Instructions
- Clean the chicken livers thoroughly, removing any connective tissues or discolored parts. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
- Cut the red bell pepper into uniform square pieces, approximately 1-inch in size, matching the size of the chicken livers to ensure even cooking.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely, releasing their aromatic oils and preparing them for flavor infusion.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken livers, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Gently toss to coat the livers evenly with seasoning.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning during grilling or broiling.
- Alternately thread the marinated chicken livers and red pepper pieces onto the skewers, ensuring balanced distribution.
- Preheat grill, grill pan, or broiler to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (204-232°C).
- Brush the skewers lightly with additional olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance caramelization.
- Grill or broil the spiedini for 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until livers are cooked through but still slightly pink in the center.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and prevent dryness.
- Serve immediately, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Tips
- Liver Preparation is Key: Always clean chicken livers meticulously, removing any tough membranes or discolored spots to ensure a smooth, delicate texture.
- Moisture Management: Pat chicken livers completely dry before marinating to achieve perfect caramelization and prevent steaming.
- Skewer Technique: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent burning, and thread ingredients uniformly for even cooking.
- Heat Control: Maintain a medium-high heat (400-450°F) to create a beautiful exterior char while keeping the liver tender and slightly pink inside.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow skewers to rest 2-3 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices and prevent dryness.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding a fresh herb garnish like chopped parsley or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for an authentic Italian touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 380mg