This classic French-inspired chicken liver pâté, known as "Pâté Maison," delivers a rich, savory spread perfect for entertaining or indulging in a luxurious snack. The delicate combination of sautéed chicken livers, butter, onion, cream, and warm spices is blended until silky smooth, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Traditionally served chilled with toast rounds, crackers, or thin slices of French bread, it pairs beautifully with cornichons or a glass of dry white wine. A timeless hors d’oeuvre, this recipe embodies simplicity, elegance, and full-bodied flavor.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup butter (or margarine)
- 1 lb chicken livers
- ½ cup onion (finely chopped )
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp dry mustard
- ⅛ tsp black pepper (freshly ground )
- Pinch powdered thyme
- ⅛ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ cup cream
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Livers and Onion
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken livers and chopped onion. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5 to 8 minutes or until livers are done and onions are tender.
Step 2: Blend
- Turn liver and onion mixture through a strainer or food mill to create a smooth base.
Step 3: Season and Cream
- Blend in salt, dry mustard, black pepper, thyme, and nutmeg. Stir in cream until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Transfer mixture to a serving dish or mold. Chill for 1–2 hours. Serve with thinly sliced French bread, crackers, or toast rounds.
Tips
- Add 1 to 2 tablespoons brandy or cognac for a traditional French finish.
- Fold in a spoonful of softened butter after blending for silkier texture.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to complement the thyme.
- Replace cream with sour cream for a slightly tangier pâté.
- Serve with cornichons, mustard, and toasted baguette slices.
- Add a splash of sherry while sautéing the onions for added depth.
- For a smoother finish, press the pâté through a fine sieve after blending.
- Top the pâté with clarified butter to seal and extend freshness.
- Mix in minced parsley or chives for a fresher, herbal version.
- Add a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky variation.
Nutrition
Calories: 126kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 11gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 205mgSodium: 140mgPotassium: 166mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 6392IUVitamin C: 11mgCalcium: 29mgIron: 5mg
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