Clinton Kelly, known for his flair in fashion and lifestyle expertise on TLC's "What Not to Wear," isn't just a fashion guru; he's also a culinary talent with a passion for cooking. Among his many recipes, one that stands out and often sparks curiosity is his iconic Liver Mouse. While the name might raise eyebrows, this recipe is an exquisite blend of flavors, presenting liver in a gourmet twist that can become a centerpiece at any dinner table. This blog post will guide you through the process of creating this liver delight, highlighting not just the recipe but also the nutritional benefits and the best ways to serve it.
Ingredients Overview
Before diving into the preparation method, let's look at the ingredients:
- 1 pound of fresh chicken livers, cleaned
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 1/4 cup of brandy or cognac
- 1 teaspoon of thyme, fresh or dried
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- Additional butter for the final spread
🍴 Note: Fresh ingredients are key to making liver mousse stand out with its rich flavor.
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Sauté the Liver
Start by melting some butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onions and cook until translucent.
- Add the cleaned livers to the skillet, cooking until they are just cooked through - usually around 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Deglaze with Brandy
Now, pour in the brandy or cognac to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom:
- Let it simmer for about a minute, allowing the alcohol to burn off but retain its flavor.
Step 3: Blend the Ingredients
Transfer the cooked liver mixture to a food processor or blender:
- Add heavy cream and begin to blend until the mixture is smooth.
- If you desire an ultra-smooth texture, you might pass it through a fine sieve or cheesecloth.
Step 4: Incorporating the Butter
Once your mixture is smooth, you’ll slowly incorporate the softened butter:
- Ensure the butter is added little by little, allowing the mousse to become creamy.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Transfer the mousse to ramekins or a terrine mold:
- Smooth the top and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until set.
🧊 Note: Chilling is crucial for achieving the mousse-like texture which gives this dish its name.
Serving Suggestions
Liver Mousse can be served in various elegant ways:
- Croissant and Baguette: Spread onto warm croissants or toasted baguette slices.
- With Pickles: Accompany with cornichons or other pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.
- Cheese Board: Include in a cheese board with crackers and different cheeses for a sophisticated spread.
Nutritional Insight
Liver is often an overlooked superfood:
- It's packed with vitamins A, B12, and iron.
- It also provides zinc, copper, and protein in high amounts.
🥦 Note: The cream and butter add to the richness but consuming in moderation is advisable.
To wrap up, Clinton Kelly's Liver Mouse is not just an exercise in culinary creativity but also an homage to the oft-overlooked liver. It transforms what many consider an offal offcut into a dish of elegance, fit for a celebration or an intimate dinner. The blend of flavors, the smooth texture, and the sumptuous presentation make this recipe a conversation starter and a delight for the palate. Whether you're new to cooking with liver or a seasoned chef looking for a twist, this mousse offers both nutritional benefits and gourmet indulgence. Remember, the quality of ingredients and the patience in preparation will elevate this dish to its fullest potential.
Can I use beef liver instead of chicken liver for the mousse?
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Yes, you can use beef liver. It has a stronger flavor, so you might want to adjust the seasoning or blend it with a milder liver like chicken or pork for a balanced taste.
What can I use as a substitute for brandy in this recipe?
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If you prefer not to use brandy, you can opt for chicken stock, white wine, or even apple cider vinegar for a different but delightful flavor profile.
How long does liver mousse keep in the refrigerator?
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Liver mousse can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week if properly sealed in an airtight container. Make sure to store it away from strong-smelling foods as it can absorb odors.
