German liver sausage, also known as Leberwurst, is a traditional and beloved dish in German cuisine. It is a creamy and flavorful spread made from pork liver, bacon, and various seasonings. This easy German liver sausage recipe is perfect for those who want to recreate this classic delicacy at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork liver
– 1/2 pound bacon
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Begin by cleaning the pork liver, removing any connective tissue or membranes. Rinse the liver thoroughly under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a food processor or meat grinder, grind the pork liver and bacon together until they form a smooth paste. If you don’t have a food processor or meat grinder, you can also use a blender or a mortar and pestle.
5. Transfer the liver and bacon mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the sautéed onion, garlic, ground allspice, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, black pepper, salt, and heavy cream. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
6. Prepare a large pot of boiling water. While the water is heating, prepare a large bowl filled with ice water.
7. Take a small amount of the liver mixture and shape it into a small patty. Drop the patty into the boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes. Remove the cooked patty from the water and place it into the ice water to cool.
8. Taste the cooked patty to check the seasoning. Adjust the seasoning of the liver mixture as desired.
9. Once the seasoning is adjusted, transfer the liver mixture into sterilized jars or containers. Make sure to leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar. Seal the jars tightly.
10. Place the jars into a large pot filled with simmering water. The water should reach about halfway up the sides of the jars. Cook the liver sausage in the water bath for about 1 hour.
11. Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the liver sausage for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Now, let’s answer some commonly asked questions about this easy German liver sausage recipe:
Q1: Can I use chicken liver instead of pork liver?
A1: Yes, you can substitute chicken liver for pork liver if you prefer a milder flavor.
Q2: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
A2: Yes, you can use turkey bacon as a healthier alternative to regular bacon.
Q3: Can I omit the heavy cream?
A3: The heavy cream adds creaminess to the liver sausage, but you can omit it if you prefer a lighter texture.
Q4: How long does the liver sausage last in the refrigerator?
A4: The liver sausage can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Q5: Can I freeze the liver sausage?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the liver sausage for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before consuming.
Q6: What can I serve with German liver sausage?
A6: German liver sausage is traditionally served on bread or crackers. It pairs well with pickles, mustard, and sauerkraut.
Q7: Can I use ground spices instead of whole spices?
A7: Yes, you can use ground spices instead of whole spices. Just adjust the quantities accordingly, as ground spices are more potent.
Q8: Can I use a different type of seasoning?
A8: You can experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste. However, be cautious as some seasonings may overpower the flavor of the liver.
Q9: Can I use this liver sausage as a filling for other dishes?
A9: Yes, you can use the liver sausage as a filling for dumplings, stuffed vegetables, or as a flavorful addition to soups and stews.
In conclusion, this easy German liver sausage recipe allows you to enjoy a classic German delicacy right in the comfort of your own home. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a creamy and flavorful spread that will delight your taste buds. Serve it on bread or crackers for a delicious snack or use it as a versatile ingredient in various dishes. Prost!