cold pork liver recipe

Chilled Pig Liver Salad: A Culinary Guide

Chilled pig liver salad, a beloved appetizer in Chinese cuisine, delights with its tender texture and zesty flavors. Mastering this dish requires balancing marination, blanching, and seasoning for a perfect harmony of richness and brightness.

Step 1: Preparation

Select fresh pig liver, soak in cold water for 1 hour to remove blood. Trim membranes, then slice into 2mm-thick pieces. For extra tenderness, soak slices in milk or salted water for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Blanching

Bring water to a boil with ginger slices, cooking wine, and a pinch of salt. Add liver slices, blanch for 1–2 minutes until just cooked (overcooking makes them tough). Immediately transfer to ice water to firm up. Drain and pat dry.

Step 3: Seasoning

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and chili oil (optional). Toss liver slices gently with the dressing. Add julienned cucumbers, carrots, or boiled peanuts for crunch.

Step 4: Serving

Chill for 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro or sesame seeds. For variation, try Sichuan peppercorn oil or a drizzle of honey for sweet notes.

This versatile dish pairs well with rice or as a standalone snack, offering a healthy, protein-rich treat that’s both refreshing and satisfying.