If you are a food lover and want to explore something new, then chicken hearts might be a great choice for you. Chicken hearts are an excellent source of protein and they can be cooked in multiple ways. However, it is also essential to cook them properly to get the best taste and texture. In this article, we will guide you on how to cook chicken hearts.
The Preparation – Cleaning and Marinating
Before cooking chicken hearts, it is necessary to prepare them properly. First of all, you need to clean them properly. Rinse them under running water and remove any excess fat, blood, or debris. After cleaning, soak them in clean water for an hour to remove any impurities.
Marinating the chicken hearts is essential to enhance their taste. You can marinate them as per your choice, but most people prefer marinating them with garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Just mix these ingredients in a bowl and soak the chicken hearts in it for 4-5 hours or overnight. This will help to tenderize the meat and add more flavor.
The Cooking – Grilling and Boiling
There are many ways to cook chicken hearts, but grilling and boiling are the most common ones. We will discuss both of them in detail.
Grilling the Chicken Hearts
Grilling chicken hearts are a simple and delicious way to enjoy them. Here is how you can do it:
Step 1: Preheat your grill on medium heat.
Step 2: Take out the chicken hearts from the marinade and let them dry for a while.
Step 3: Place the chicken hearts on the preheated grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side.
Step 4: Keep flipping them until they are nicely grilled from both sides.
Step 5: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Boiling the Chicken Hearts
Boiling chicken hearts are another popular way to prepare them. Here is how to do it:
Step 1: Take out the chicken hearts from the marinade and let them dry.
Step 2: Heat water in a pan and add some salt and lemon juice to it.
Step 3: Place the chicken hearts in the pan and let them boil for 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Check the chicken hearts after 10 minutes with a fork. If they are tender, turn off the heat.
Step 5: Drain the water and season the chicken hearts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 6: Serve hot and enjoy!
The Serving – Suggestions and Tips
Chicken hearts are best served hot with your favorite dipping sauce or on top of a salad. They can be used as a side dish or a main course. Here are some tips that you can consider while serving:
– Serve them hot to enjoy the texture and flavor.
– Top them with some cheese or green onions to enhance the taste.
– Use them as a topping on pizzas or pasta for an unusual twist.
– Add them to your soup or stew to make it more nutritious.
The FAQ – Answering Common Questions
Q. Are chicken hearts healthy to eat?
Yes, chicken hearts are healthy to eat as they are a great source of protein, iron, and vitamin B-12.
Q. Can I cook chicken hearts on a pan?
Yes, you can cook chicken hearts on a pan by sautéing or frying them. However, grilling and boiling are the preferred methods.
Q. How to store chicken hearts?
You can store chicken hearts in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Q. Are chicken hearts safe to eat?
Yes, chicken hearts are safe to eat if they are cooked properly. Make sure you clean them thoroughly and cook them at the recommended temperature.
In conclusion, cooking chicken hearts is simple, and with the right techniques, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal. Whether you grill or boil them, make sure you follow the cleaning and marinating process to get the best taste. Try the suggested serving tips or experiment with your own. Happy cooking!