Chicken Liver Masala Fry
Tender chicken livers tossed in a thick, spicy masala of onions, tomatoes, and aromatic Indian spices. A quick and flavorful dish, perfect as a side with rice or roti, ready in under 40 minutes.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Prepare the Liver: Rinse the chicken liver under cold water
- a.Pat them completely dry with paper towels. Trim any greenish parts or connective tissues. Cut the liver into uniform, bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch). Set aside.
- 2
Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat
- a.Once hot, add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Build the Masala Base: Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chillies to the pan. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears. Lower the heat, then add the spice powders: turmeric, red chilli, coriander, and cumin powder. Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
- 4
Cook the Tomatoes: Immediately add the tomato puree and salt
- a.Mix everything well. Cook the masala on medium-low heat for 7-9 minutes, stirring periodically, until the mixture thickens and you see oil separating from the sides of the masala.
- 5
Cook the Chicken Liver: Add the prepared chicken liver pieces to the pan
- a.Gently stir to coat them evenly with the masala. Cover the pan and cook on medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes. Stir every 2-3 minutes to prevent sticking. The liver is cooked when it's firm to the touch and no longer pink inside. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
- 6
Finish and Garnish: Once the liver is cooked through, uncover the pan
- a.Sprinkle the garam masala and drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the top. Give it a final gentle stir to combine. Garnish generously with chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Do not overcook the liver, as it will become tough and rubbery. It cooks very quickly.
- 2For a milder flavor, you can soak the liver in milk for 30 minutes before cooking. Rinse and pat dry before use.
- 3Ensure the masala is well-cooked and oil has separated before adding the liver. This is key to a flavorful dish.
- 4If the masala becomes too dry while cooking, add a splash of hot water to adjust the consistency.
- 5For a richer, more traditional flavor, use ghee instead of vegetable oil.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier Version
Increase the amount of green chillies and red chilli powder. You can also add a pinch of black pepper powder along with the garam masala at the end.
With Bell PeppersWith Bell Peppers
Add 1/2 cup of thinly sliced bell peppers (capsicum) along with the onions for extra crunch and flavor.
Creamy Liver MasalaCreamy Liver Masala
For a richer, milder gravy, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or beaten full-fat yogurt at the end of cooking. Cook on low heat for another minute.
Mutton Liver MasalaMutton Liver Masala
This recipe works well with mutton liver too. Note that mutton liver may take a few minutes longer to cook.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Iron
Chicken liver is one of the best dietary sources of heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for forming hemoglobin, which transports oxygen in the blood, helping to prevent anemia and boost energy levels.
Boosts Vision and Immunity
Packed with Vitamin A in its active form (retinol), chicken liver supports healthy vision, immune function, and cell growth. A single serving can provide well over the daily recommended intake.
Rich in B Vitamins
This dish is an exceptional source of B vitamins, especially B12 and folate. These vitamins are vital for brain health, energy metabolism, and the formation of red blood cells.
Protein Powerhouse
Chicken liver provides high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, maintaining muscle mass, and supporting overall body functions.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of Chicken Liver Masala Fry contains approximately 280-320 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. It's a nutrient-dense dish, high in protein and essential vitamins.