A Liver and Pears Cake is quite an unusual combination, as liver is typically not used in cakes. However, if you’re looking for a savory cake with a unique twist or want to explore innovative recipes, I can offer a creative approach to incorporating liver and pears. This will be more of a savory and slightly sweet cake, combining the rich flavors of liver with the subtle sweetness of pears.
Liver and Pears Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- ½ lb (225g) chicken liver (or beef liver, finely chopped)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 pear, peeled and finely diced
For the Pear Glaze:
- ½ cup pear preserves (or pear jam)
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
- Thinly sliced pear
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Liver Mixture
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Cook liver: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped liver and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the liver from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent.
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Combine: Add the cooked liver back to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir in the dried thyme and rosemary. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper.
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Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and milk together. Stir in the liver mixture and diced pear.
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Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
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Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter to the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
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Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Pear Glaze
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Heat glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the pear preserves, water, and lemon juice. Heat over low heat, stirring until the preserves are melted and the mixture is smooth.
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Cool: Let the glaze cool slightly before using.
Step 4: Assemble and Garnish
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Glaze the cake: Brush or spread the pear glaze over the top of the cooled cake.
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Garnish (optional): Decorate with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs and thinly sliced pear for a nice presentation.
This Liver and Pears Cake will be a unique blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors, perfect for those looking to try something unconventional. It could be a great addition to a savory brunch or as a conversation starter at a dinner party. Enjoy experimenting with this distinctive recipe!
