Hey there, fellow food lover! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the hunt for meals that are both nourishing and delightfully delicious. Let me share a gem from my kitchen that’s been a hit at our family dinners—Beef Liver Stir Fry. Now, I know liver isn’t everyone’s go-to choice, but trust me on this one; it’s a game-changer. Growing up, my mom would make liver dishes that were so tender and flavorful, they’d make you forget about all those liver horror stories you’ve heard. Today, I’ve tweaked her classic recipe into a modern stir-fry that’s not just rich in iron but also packed with the goodness of Brussels sprouts and chow mein noodles.
My first encounter with this dish was during a chilly autumn evening. We were all gathered around the kitchen, and the warm, inviting aroma filled the air as my mom sizzled the liver steaks with onions. The sound of noodles boiling and veggies crackling in the pan was music to our ears. It was a comforting feast that brought us together, and every bite felt like a warm hug. I decided to recreate that magic for my own family, adding a twist with Brussels sprouts and chow mein noodles for a bit of crunch and flavor that melds perfectly with the tender beef liver.
If you’re skeptical about liver, this recipe might just change your mind. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but has that special something that makes it feel like a weekend treat. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition without sacrificing on taste. So, why not give it a shot? Let this Beef Liver Stir Fry be the star of your dinner table tonight. Gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Beef Liver Stir Fry
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Ingredients:
- 1 lb chow mein noodles
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts (cut in half)
- 1 lb beef liver steaks (cut into bite-size pieces)
- 1 onion, sliced into half rings
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 Tbsp soy sauce
- 6 Tbsp olive oil (more if needed)
Directions:
- Begin by cooking the chow mein noodles as directed on the package. Once cooked, drain them and set aside in a large bowl.
- For the Brussels sprouts, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, then place the sprouts cut-side down. Sauté them until they’re lightly browned and cooked through, stirring frequently. Transfer them to a separate bowl.
- Next, in the same skillet, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and start cooking the liver pieces in batches over medium-high heat. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan, allowing the liver to sear nicely instead of boiling. Cook until slightly browned and through to your preference. Always wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel between batches, adding more oil as necessary.
- For the onions, optionally wipe the skillet clean again, then add another 2-3 tablespoons of oil. Sauté the onion slices until they turn translucent and slightly charred.
- Combine the Brussels sprouts and liver back in the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and minced garlic, stirring to mix everything thoroughly.
- Finally, transfer the stir-fried beef liver and Brussels sprouts over the prepared noodles. Serve immediately, or mix the liver and noodles together if you prefer. Enjoy your meal warm!
Don’t Have Brussels Sprouts? Here’s What to Use Instead
If Brussels sprouts aren’t your thing, or if you simply don’t have any on hand, you can easily substitute them with broccoli or green beans. Both options will provide a similar crunch and absorb the flavors beautifully. Spinach can also be tossed in for a softer, more wilted texture if preferred.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Beef Liver Stir Fry
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within two days to maintain freshness. If you plan to freeze it, separate the noodles from the liver and Brussels sprouts to prevent sogginess. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of soy sauce to revive flavors.
The Best Accompaniments for Beef Liver Stir Fry
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, fresh salad or a light vegetable soup. For drinks, a chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea complements the savory flavors perfectly. You can also sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped scallions on top for added texture and a burst of color.
Cooking Hacks to Elevate Beef Liver Stir Fry
To avoid ending up with chalky liver, make sure not to overcook it—just a quick sear on medium-high heat should do the trick. For an extra flavor boost, you can marinate the liver pieces in a bit of soy sauce and garlic before cooking. And if you’re seeking deeper umami notes, a splash of Worcestershire sauce can do wonders!
Using What’s in Season for Beef Liver Stir Fry
In spring, consider adding fresh asparagus or snap peas to your stir fry for a touch of sweetness and crunch. Summer welcomes the use of vibrant bell peppers or zucchini, which add color and freshness. In fall and winter, root vegetables like carrots or parsnips can enhance the heartiness of the dish.
FAQs:
Is there a way to make the liver less bitter?
Yes, to reduce the bitterness, you can soak the liver in milk for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This helps to mellow out the strong flavors. After soaking, rinse the liver under cold water and pat dry before proceeding with the recipe.
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! If chow mein noodles aren’t available, feel free to use rice noodles, udon, or even spaghetti as a substitute. Each will provide a different texture but will still hold up well in the stir fry. Just adjust the cooking time according to the noodle type you choose.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
The best way to reheat Beef Liver Stir Fry is on the stovetop. Heat a pan over medium heat, adding a touch of oil if needed, and stir until heated through. This method keeps the liver from becoming rubbery, unlike microwaving, which can sometimes alter the texture.
How do I know if the liver is cooked perfectly?
When cooked correctly, liver should be slightly pink inside but not raw. It should be firm to the touch, yet tender and juicy. Overcooking will lead to a dry, chalky texture, so keep a close eye on it and aim for medium doneness for best results.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the beef liver with firm tofu or tempeh. Both options work well in absorbing the soy sauce and garlic, providing a different texture while still delivering on taste. Ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I add more spice to the stir fry?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some sliced chili peppers or a dash of red pepper flakes to the stir fry. You could also incorporate a teaspoon of Sriracha or another hot sauce of your choice when mixing in the soy sauce for an added kick.
Beef Liver Stir Fry
Equipment
- non-stick skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb chow mein noodles
- 1 lb brussels sprouts cut in half
- 1 lb beef liver steaks cut into bite size pieces
- 1 medium onion sliced into half rings
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 Tbsp soy sauce
- 6 Tbsp olive oil (use more oil if needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the chow mein noodles according to the instructions on the package. Once done, drain and place them in a large mixing bowl.
For Brussels Sprouts:
- In a preheated non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil. Place the halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down and sear until they achieve a golden brown color and are tender, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, move them to a separate bowl and clean the skillet with a paper towel.
For Beef Liver:
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of oil to the skillet and cook the beef liver pieces in batches over medium-high heat until they are lightly browned and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure proper searing. Monitor closely to prevent overcooking, which can make the liver tough. Clean the skillet between batches and add oil as necessary. Move the cooked liver to the bowl with the Brussels sprouts.
For Onions (Optional):
- If desired, wipe down the skillet again, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil, and sear the sliced onion until they become slightly charred and translucent.
To Combine:
- Add both the Brussels sprouts and cooked liver back into the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, add the minced garlic, and stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
To Serve:
- Serve the beef liver and Brussels sprouts mixture on top of the noodles while still warm. You can mix the liver with the noodles if preferred before serving. Enjoy your meal!
