Quick Chinese Liver Stir-fry

Category: Tempting Appetizers

This Chinese recipe transforms simple chicken liver into a delicious meal with crunchy peppers and onions. The key is proper marinating and quick cooking for tender results.
Sarah
Created By Sarah John
Updated on Tue, 21 Jan 2025 10:32:58 GMT
A plate of white rice topped with sautéed beef, red and green bell peppers, onions, and green peas in a savory sauce. Save
A plate of white rice topped with sautéed beef, red and green bell peppers, onions, and green peas in a savory sauce. | kitchenscroll.com

My journey with chicken liver started in my grandma's kitchen. She taught me how to transform this humble ingredient into something truly special. The secret is letting tender liver pieces mingle with sweet onions and colorful peppers in a savory sauce. Now I make this budget friendly dish whenever I need a quick nutritious dinner that doesn't break the bank.

Why I Love Cooking with Chicken Liver

I used to walk right past liver in the grocery store until I learned about its amazing benefits. Now it's a regular in my kitchen. The rich taste pairs beautifully with vegetables and it's packed with iron and vitamins that keep my family healthy. Plus it costs so much less than regular chicken while being just as satisfying.

Getting Started in Your Kitchen

My biggest kitchen secret is slicing the liver into quarter inch pieces. Not too thin or they'll get tough but not too thick either. I always soak mine in cold water for an hour it makes such a difference in the taste. Sweet onions and peppers are must haves in my version. The sauce is simple my favorite soy sauce a splash of oyster sauce and just a drop of sesame oil makes everything sing together.

Cooking Your Liver Just Right

Start by soaking your liver while you prep everything else. Get your pan nice and hot then spread out those liver pieces. Let them get a beautiful brown crust before flipping. Next comes the fun part where garlic and ginger fill your kitchen with the most amazing smell. Toss in those colorful vegetables until they're just right still crisp but warm through. Finally mix everything together with that flavorful sauce until it's glossy and perfect.

A bowl of white rice topped with beef stir-fry, red and green bell peppers, onions, and sesame seeds. Save
A bowl of white rice topped with beef stir-fry, red and green bell peppers, onions, and sesame seeds. | kitchenscroll.com

My Favorite Cooking Tips

A good nonstick pan is your best friend when cooking liver. Watch it closely and take it off the heat as soon as the pink is gone that's how you keep it tender. I learned the hard way to have everything chopped and ready before starting because once you begin cooking it goes fast. Sometimes I use my old wok it gives the liver an amazing texture.

Good for Your Body and Your Wallet

Every time I serve this dish I think about how much goodness is on our plates. The iron keeps us energized through busy days. B12 helps keep our minds sharp and the protein fills us up without weighing us down. It's amazing how such an affordable ingredient can bring so much nutrition to our table.

A Few Last Words

This chicken liver recipe has become one of my most treasured dishes. The way it transforms on the stove still amazes me every time. Whether you grew up eating liver or this is your first try I know you'll be surprised by how delicious it can be. Drop me a comment below about how yours turned out.

Common Questions About Cooking

→ How do I make sure the liver stays tender?
Marinate the liver properly and avoid overcooking. Cook just until you no longer see blood seeping out, as overcooking will make it tough.
→ Why use fingers to mix the marinade?
Chicken liver is delicate when raw. Using fingers allows gentle mixing that keeps the liver intact while ensuring even coating of the cornstarch.
→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and dry sherry instead of Shaoxing wine to make it gluten-free.
→ Why remove blood vessels from the liver?
Removing visible blood vessels while slicing gives the dish a cleaner flavor and better texture overall.
→ What should I do if there's excess liquid during marinating?
Either drain the extra liquid or add a bit more cornstarch before cooking to prevent oil splatter and ensure proper cooking.

Chicken Liver with Onion and Pepper

A savory Chinese stir-fry combining tender chicken liver with crisp vegetables in a flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick, nutritious, and budget-friendly meal.

Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Duration
5 minutes
Total Time Required
25 minutes
Created By: Sarah John

Recipe Category: Savory Snacks

Skill Level Required: Moderate Skills Needed

Cuisine Style: Chinese

Recipe Output: 4 Number of Servings (4 servings)

Dietary Preferences: Low in Carbs, No Dairy

What You'll Gather

Contains 01 items 12 oz chicken liver, sliced to 1/4-inch pieces.
Contains 02 items 2 teaspoons Shaoxing wine or dry sherry for marinade.
Contains 03 items 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Contains 04 items 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch for marinade.
Contains 05 items 1/4 cup chicken broth.
Contains 06 items 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry for sauce.
Contains 07 items 1 tablespoon light soy sauce.
Contains 08 items 1/2 teaspoon dark soy sauce.
Contains 09 items 2 teaspoons sugar.
Contains 10 items 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch for sauce.
Contains 11 items 1/4 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns or black pepper.
Contains 12 items 2 tablespoons peanut oil.
Contains 13 items 3 cloves garlic, minced.
Contains 14 items 2 teaspoons minced ginger.
Contains 15 items 1/2 onion, sliced.
Contains 16 items 1 bell pepper, sliced.
Contains 17 items 1 teaspoon sesame oil.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Mix liver with wine, salt, and cornstarch. Handle gently with fingers for even coating.

Step 02

Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl until well combined.

Step 03

Sear liver in single layer for 1 minute per side until golden brown and just cooked through.

Step 04

Stir-fry garlic and ginger until fragrant, then add onion and cook 1 minute.

Step 05

Return liver to pan with peppers, add sauce and cook until thickened. Add sesame oil and serve.

Important Tips

  1. Remove blood vessels for cleaner flavor.
  2. Use fingers to mix marinade gently.
  3. Drain excess marinade liquid before cooking.

Essential Tools

  • Large skillet.
  • Mixing bowls.

Allergen Guidance

Double-check ingredients for allergens and consult a health expert if needed.
  • Soy.
  • Wheat (if using soy sauce).

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is provided as a guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 259
  • Fat Amount: 13.7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11.6 g
  • Protein Amount: 22 g