Hairy Bikers Liver and Bacon Recipe

The Hairy Bikers Liver and Bacon recipe is a robust, flavorful dish that pairs the rich, earthy taste of liver with the smoky crispness of bacon. This combination, enhanced with a savory gravy, creates a deeply satisfying meal that’s ideal for those cooler evenings or any time you crave the comfort of a hearty, traditional dish.

This article will guide you through making the Hairy Bikers’ Liver and Bacon, complete with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your meal is perfectly cooked and packed with flavor.

What is Hairy Bikers Liver and Bacon Recipe?

The Hairy Bikers, known for their down-to-earth cooking style, have turned the traditional liver and bacon dish into something extraordinary. This recipe pairs tender, iron-rich liver with smoky, crispy bacon, all enveloped in a rich, onion-based gravy. It’s a dish that offers a wonderful play of textures and flavors, making it a beloved classic in British cuisine.

This recipe serves 4-6 people, this recipe can be brought to the table in roughly an hour.

Other Popular Recipes

• Hairy Bikers Beef Curry
• Hairy Bikers Steak and Kidney Pudding
• Hairy Bikers Beef Rendang

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: Perfect for a filling meal that leaves you content and happy.
• Rich in Nutrients: Liver is packed with iron and essential vitamins.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of liver and bacon provides a unique and delicious taste.
• Comfort Food: It’s the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak according to your taste preferences.

Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Liver and Bacon

• 500g fresh liver (chicken or beef), thinly sliced
• 8 slices of smoked bacon
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef stock
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Essential Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Liver and Bacon

Preparation

1. Preparing the Liver: Begin by slicing the liver into thin, even pieces. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and lightly coat with flour. This not only seasons the liver but also gives it a delightful crust.
2. Cooking the Bacon: In a large skillet, fry the bacon until crisp. Once done, set it aside on paper towels to drain. The bacon not only adds its own unique flavor but also leaves behind a treasure of fats for the next step.
3. Sautéing Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add a dash of olive oil if needed, and sauté the onions and garlic until they turn soft and golden. This step is crucial for building the base flavor.

Cooking

4. Browning the Liver: Increase the heat and add the liver to the skillet. Cook each side for about 2 minutes or until browned. Remember, the liver cooks quickly and overcooking can make it tough.
5. Simmering with Stock: Once the liver is browned, pour in the stock and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes. The stock not only deglazes the pan but also creates a rich, flavorful sauce.
6. Bringing It All Together: Return the bacon to the pan, mixing it with the liver and onion mixture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serving

7. Plating Up: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a slice of rustic bread.

What Do I Serve With Hairy Bikers Liver and Bacon?

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that balances the dish’s rich flavors.
• Steamed Green Vegetables: Like broccoli or green beans for a healthy, crunchy side.
• Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up the delicious gravy.
• Garden Salad: For a lighter, refreshing side.

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Hairy Bikers Liver and Bacon

1. Select Fresh Liver: Freshness is key. Look for liver that’s bright and has a smooth texture.
2. Do Not Overcook: Liver should be cooked just right; overcooking can make it tough and chewy.
3. Render the Bacon Well: Ensure the bacon is crispy to add texture to the dish.
4. Balance the Flavors: Adjust the seasoning to hit the right balance of savory and umami.
5. Rest the Liver: Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking for optimal tenderness.

Variations of Hairy Bikers Liver and Bacon

• With Different Meats: Try using chicken or mutton for a different flavor.
• Vegetable Twist: Add mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with thyme, rosemary, or sage for a herby touch.

How to Store Hairy Bikers Liver and Bacon Leftovers

In the Refrigerator

• Cool Down: Ensure the leftovers reach room temperature.
• Airtight Container: Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Duration: Consume within 2 days for best quality.

In the Freezer

• Freezer-Safe Container: Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label and Date: Mark the date on the container for reference.
• Freeze up to 3 Months: For best quality, use within three months.

How to Reheat Hairy Bikers Liver and Bacon Leftovers

• Thawing (if frozen): Overnight in the refrigerator.
• Pan Reheating: Gently reheat in a pan over low to medium heat.
• Oven Reheating: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Avoid Microwave: It can unevenly reheat and toughen the liver.

How Can I Make This Dish Less Rich?

To make the dish less rich, you can:

• Reduce the amount of bacon or use a leaner cut.
• Use a lighter stock, such as chicken or vegetable stock, instead of beef stock.
• Add more vegetables to the dish, like mushrooms or bell peppers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
• Serve smaller portions of liver and bacon alongside a larger portion of sides like salad or steamed vegetables.

Nutritional Values Per Serving (approximate):

• Calories: 400-500 kcal
• Protein: 35-40 g
• Fat: 20-25 g (depending on the amount of bacon and oil used)
• Carbohydrates: 15-20 g (mainly from onions and flour)
• Fiber: 1-2 g
• Cholesterol: 300-400 mg (high due to liver)
• Iron: 15-20 mg (liver is a high source of iron)
• Vitamin A: High (liver is a rich source of Vitamin A)
• B Vitamins: High (particularly B12 from liver)

FAQs

Can I Use Chicken Liver Instead of Beef Liver in This Recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken liver as a substitute for beef liver in this recipe. Chicken liver is generally milder in flavor and more tender than beef liver, which can be an excellent option for those who are new to eating liver. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly, as chicken liver tends to cook faster.

How Do I Know When the Liver is Cooked Perfectly?

Liver should be cooked until it’s no longer pink in the middle, but still tender and moist. Overcooked liver can become tough and grainy. A good rule of thumb is to cook liver slices for about 3-4 minutes on each side on medium heat. You can cut it into a piece to check doneness; it should be slightly pink in the center for the best texture.

Is This Recipe Suitable for Freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked liver and bacon. Cool the dish completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to avoid toughening the liver.