Somali Beef Liver with Onions (Beer iyo Basal)
A flavorful and nutritious Somali dish featuring tender beef liver sautéed with aromatic onions and a blend of traditional spices. This dish is often enjoyed for breakfast but can be served at any meal. It's known for its quick preparation and rich taste.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef liver(sliced thinly)
- 2 medium Onions(thinly sliced)
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- to taste Salt
- 1 small Green bell pepper(chopped (optional))
- for serving Lemon wedges
👨‍🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the liver: Wash the liver under cold water and pat it dry. Slice it thinly.
- 2
Sauté onions: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are translucent and lightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add aromatics: Add the minced garlic and optional chopped green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Cook the liver: Push the onions and peppers to one side of the pan, or remove them temporarily. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the liver slices in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through but still tender. Avoid overcooking, as this will make the liver tough.
- 5
Combine and season: Return the onions and peppers to the pan with the liver. Sprinkle with cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine and cook for another minute.
- 6
Serve: Serve the beef liver and onions hot, with lemon wedges on the side. It is traditionally served with lahooh (Somali flatbread) or pita bread.
đź’ˇ Pro Tips
- âś“Do not overcook the liver, as it will become tough and dry.
- âś“Slice the liver thinly for quicker and more even cooking.
- âś“Adjust the amount of spices to your personal preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use lamb or goat liver for a different flavor profile.
- Include other vegetables like tomatoes or bell peppers of different colors.