Caribou Liver Pâté
Caribou Recipe
1Setup & Prepare
About This Recipe
Caribou liver, properly prepared, creates smooth, rich pâté with complex flavors and luxurious texture. Cognac and aromatics add sophistication while traditional techniques ensure the liver stays tender and creamy.
Cultural Context
Liver has been prized across northern cultures for its exceptional nutritional density, providing essential vitamins in harsh climates where fresh vegetables are scarce. This refined preparation transforms traditional organ meat into elegant pâté suitable for special occasions while honoring its cultural importance.
2Ingredients
Shopping List
3Cooking Instructions
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Liver Preparation: Soak liver in milk for 30 minutes to remove any bitterness. Pat dry and cut into 1-inch pieces.
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Bacon: Cook bacon in skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove and reserve. Leave fat in pan.
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Aromatics: In bacon fat, cook onion until softened, 8 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
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Liver: Increase heat to medium-high. Add liver pieces and cook until just pink inside, about 5 minutes. Don't overcook.
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Deglazing: Add cognac carefully (it may flame). Cook until reduced by half.
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Blending: Transfer everything to food processor. Add softened butter, cream, thyme, allspice, salt, and pepper. Process until very smooth.
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Straining: For ultra-smooth texture, press mixture through fine-mesh strainer with rubber spatula.
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Molding: Pack into ramekins or terrine mold. Smooth top and pour thin layer of melted butter over surface to seal.
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Chilling: Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.
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Service: Serve at room temperature with cornichons, crackers, and grainy mustard.
4Chef's Notes & Pairings
Chef's Notes
- Don't overcook the liver or it becomes grainy
- Soaking in milk removes any bitter flavors
- Butter seal prevents oxidation and extends storage
- Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before serving
Wine Pairing
Sweet Sauternes or late-harvest Riesling provides classic pairing for rich liver pâté.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: 240 calories, 12g protein, 20g fat, 3g carbohydrates. Extremely high in vitamin A, iron, and B-vitamins.
