1. Prepare the Liver:
- If you choose to soak the liver in milk: Place the liver slices in a bowl, cover with milk, and soak for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator. This step is optional but can help to neutralize the strong flavor of the liver.
- Whether soaked or not, pat the liver dry with paper towels before cooking.
2. Season and Flour the Liver:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Dredge the liver slices in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
3. Cook the Onions:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the Liver:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter or oil and increase the heat to medium-high.
- Add the liver slices, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the liver for about 2-3 minutes on each side, just until browned but still slightly pink in the center. Overcooking can make the liver tough and grainy.
5. Combine and Serve:
- Return the onions to the skillet with the liver, reduce the heat to low, and cook together for a few minutes more to meld the flavors.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Tips for Cooking Beef Liver:
- Don’t Overcook: Liver should be cooked until just done; overcooking will make it tough and chewy.
- Quick Cooking: Because liver slices are thin, they cook very quickly on high heat. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn or overcook.
- Preparation: Soaking the liver in milk can help mellow the flavor, making it less bitter and more palatable for those who are not used to eating liver.
Serving Suggestions:
- Sides: Serve beef liver and onions with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or over buttered noodles to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
- Vegetables: A side of steamed green beans, peas, or a crisp salad can add freshness and balance to the meal.
Beef liver and onions is a nourishing, flavorful dish that’s deeply rooted in many culinary traditions. Enjoy the robust flavors and the nutritional benefits of this classic meal!