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Sliced Calf's Liver with Golden Onions

This classic dish of pan-fried calf's liver with golden onions is a nutrient-dense choice for anyone looking for a satisfying, savoury meal. By slicing the liver thinly and searing it quickly, you maintain a tender, buttery texture that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the slowly softened onions. It is a sophisticated yet simple supper that celebrates high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.

As a diabetes-friendly recipe, this meal is naturally low in carbohydrates and rich in essential vitamins and iron. The lightly reduced pan juices create a natural sauce that ties the elements together without the need for heavy thickeners. Serve it alongside a generous portion of steamed leafy greens or roasted root vegetables for a balanced and wholesome midweek dinner that feels truly indulgent.

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Ingredients for Sliced Calf's Liver with Golden Onions

  • 450g piece calf's liver

  • 350g onions, sliced paper-thin

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter or extra-virgin olive oil (or a combination)

  • 1/3 cup water

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

How to make Sliced Calf's Liver with Golden Onions

Rinse liver to remove any traces of blood and discard membrane and any tough veins. Cut crosswise into 1/8-inch-thick slices.

Cook onions in 2 tablespoons butter in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderate heat, stirring, 1 minute. Cover skillet and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and keep warm, covered.

Pat half of liver slices dry and toss with salt and pepper to taste. Heat 1 tablespoon butter in skillet over moderately high heat until foam subsides, then sauté seasoned liver, shaking skillet and turning liver, until browned on both sides but still pink inside, about 2 minutes. Put cooked liver on top of onions and cover.

Add water to skillet and deglaze, scraping up brown bits and boiling until liquid is slightly reduced. Pour sauce over cooked liver and wipe skillet clean. Sauté remaining liver as above, then add rest of liver with onions and parsley, tossing briefly.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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