Mete Chorchori
A classic Bengali delicacy featuring tender mutton liver pieces cooked with potatoes in a rich, spicy, and semi-dry gravy. This robust and flavorful dish is a favorite in Bengali households, best enjoyed with steamed rice.
For 4 servings
Prepare Liver and Potatoes
- Clean the mutton liver thoroughly under cold running water. Remove any membranes or sinew.
- Cut the liver into 1-inch bite-sized pieces, pat them completely dry with paper towels, and set aside.
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes, similar in size to the liver pieces.
Fry the Potatoes
- Heat the mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium-high heat until it is pungent and lightly smoking. This step is crucial for authentic Bengali flavor.
- Carefully add the potato cubes. Fry for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and crisp on the edges.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried potatoes and set them aside on a plate.
Sauté Aromatics and Spices
- In the same oil, lower the heat to medium. Add the bay leaves, cinnamon stick, crushed green cardamoms, and cloves. Sauté for 30-40 seconds until they release their aroma.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 7-8 minutes until they turn soft and golden brown.
- Add the ginger and garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, slit green chilies, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, salt, and sugar. Mix well.
- Cook this masala mixture for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the tomatoes break down and oil begins to separate at the edges.
Cook the Liver and Potatoes
- Increase the heat to high and add the mutton liver pieces to the pan. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, to sear the liver on all sides. This locks in the juices.
- Return the fried potatoes to the pan. Add 1 cup of hot water and stir everything together gently.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liver is tender and cooked through. Avoid overcooking.
- Stir once or twice during simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
Finish and Garnish
- Uncover the pan and check if the liver is cooked. It should be firm but not rubbery.
- Sprinkle the garam masala powder and add the ghee. Stir gently to combine.
- Cook for another minute without the lid to let the flavors meld.
- Turn off the heat, garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves, and serve hot.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, use mustard oil and heat it properly until it's pungent before adding other ingredients.
- 2Do not overcook the liver, as it will become tough and rubbery. It's done when it's firm to the touch but still tender inside.
- 3Searing the liver on high heat initially helps to seal in the juices, making it more flavorful.
- 4Soaking the liver pieces in milk or buttermilk for 30 minutes before cooking can help reduce any strong gamey odor.
- 5Ensure the potatoes and liver pieces are cut to a similar size for even cooking.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
You can make this dish with chicken liver. Reduce the simmering time to 10-12 minutes as chicken liver cooks faster.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
For a more wholesome 'chorchori', you can add other vegetables like carrots or green peas along with the potatoes.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the amount of red chili powder and add a few more slit green chilies for a fiery kick.
With YogurtWith Yogurt
Add 2 tablespoons of whisked yogurt to the masala after the tomatoes have cooked down for a creamier, tangier gravy.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Iron
Mutton liver is an excellent source of heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body and is crucial for preventing iron-deficiency anemia and boosting energy levels.
Excellent Source of Protein
This dish provides high-quality protein from the liver, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle growth, and overall body function.
Immunity Booster
Packed with Vitamin A, B vitamins (especially B12), and zinc, mutton liver helps strengthen the immune system, supports good vision, and aids in nerve function.
Anti-inflammatory Spices
The use of spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic provides powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that support overall health and well-being.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Mete Chorchori contains approximately 450-550 calories. This is an estimate and can vary based on the size of the potatoes, the amount of oil used, and the fat content of the liver.