Transport yourself to the heart of Africa with this rich and flavorful Gizzard Soup Recipe. Tender chicken gizzards are simmered to perfection in a savory broth infused with traditional African spices and vegetables. Each spoonful is a journey through the vibrant flavors of the continent, a testament to the culinary richness and diversity of African cuisine.
In the culinary world, surprises await around every corner. Gizzards, often overlooked, bring rich flavors and textures to the table. This Cream of Gizzard Soup recipe transforms a humble ingredient into a star.
Every spoonful bursts with warmth and depth. It’s not just soup; it’s an experience. Diverse in profile, yet harmonious in blend. This dish delivers for those seeking the unfamiliar or the enthusiast craving authenticity.
Dive into a bowl of tradition and innovation combined. Let your palate explore. Welcome to a new realm of taste.
What Is Cream Of Gizzard Soup?
Cream of Gizzard Soup is a sumptuous blend of tender gizzards simmered to perfection, combined with a rich, creamy base. Infused with herbs and spices, this soup elevates the humble gizzard to gourmet status. Its velvety texture complements the meaty bite of the gizzards, offering a unique taste journey.
Traditionally cherished in various cultures, it’s a culinary revelation for the adventurous palate, merging rustic flavors with luxurious creaminess—an unexpected delight in every spoonful.
Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?
- Keto Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets. Use heavy cream for richness.
- Paleo Forego dairy; use coconut milk instead of cream. Replace potatoes with sweet potatoes or turnips.
- Gluten-Free This recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always check the chicken broth to ensure no gluten-containing additives are present.
- Whole30 Omit dairy. Use almond or cashew cream. Ensure the chicken broth is compliant, without sugars or additives.
- Vegetarian Swap gizzards and chicken broth with mushrooms and vegetable broth. The mushrooms impart a meaty texture.
- Vegan Along with the vegetarian modifications, replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use coconut milk or cashew cream.
Recipe Directions
- Wash and prep gizzards; remove yellow skin and cut into pieces.
- In a saucepan, melt butter; sauté onion and celery until soft.
- Add broth, bay leaf, and gizzards; boil, then simmer until gizzards are tender.
- Add potatoes; cook until tender.
- Before serving, stir in cream; season with salt and pepper.
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
- Herbaceous Touch: Infuse with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or tarragon while simmering for added depth.
- Spice It Up: A hint of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes can give a gentle kick.
- Veggie Delight: Add carrots, peas, or green beans for color and nutrition.
- Grains & Legumes: Introduce barley, lentils, or chickpeas for a heartier texture.
- Mushroom Magic: Incorporate shiitake or porcini mushrooms for an earthy undertone.
- Cream Alternatives: Swap raw cream with coconut milk or almond cream for different profiles.
Can I Make Cream Of Gizzard Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Slow Cooker
- After sautéing onions and celery in a pan, transfer them to the slow cooker.
- Add gizzards, broth, bay leaf, and seasonings.
- Set on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. An hour before serving, add potatoes.
- Before serving, stir in cream and season as needed.
Instant Pot
- Use the ‘Sauté’ function for onions and celery.
- Add gizzards, broth, bay leaf, and potatoes.
- Close the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing,’ and pressure cook on high for 30 minutes.
- Quick release, remove bay leaf, add cream, and season.
Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?
Store-Bought Broth
- Convenience: Ideal for quick preparation without added cooking time.
- Variety: Available in low-sodium, organic, or enhanced-flavor versions.
- Consistency: Predictable taste can lead to consistent results.
- Caution: Check for additives, preservatives, and high sodium content. Opt for broths with natural ingredients.
Homemade Broth
- Flavor Control: Customize ingredients, seasoning, and intensity.
- Nutrition: Boiling bones can infuse the broth with natural collagen and nutrients.
- No Additives: Free from preservatives and artificial flavors.
- Economical: Utilize leftover bones and vegetable scraps.
How To Serve ?
- Temperature: Ensure the soup is piping hot but not boiling, preserving the flavors and textures.
- Bowl Selection: Use pre-warmed bowls to maintain the soup’s warmth for longer.
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh herbs, croutons, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate its presentation and taste.
- Complementing Sides: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad to enhance the dining experience.
- Stir Before Serving: Ensures even distribution of gizzards, veggies, and creamy broth in each bowl.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Crusty Bread: Freshly baked bread or baguette slices delightfully soak the creamy broth.
- Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can offset the soup’s richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Offer a contrasting texture and enhanced depth of flavor.
- Cheese Board: Various cheeses, especially those with a sharper profile, can be an indulgent companion.
- Quinoa Salad: Adds a healthful grain element and contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
Storage And Make Ahead
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If planning to freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on the microwave for quicker thawing.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for convenience.
What Can We Do With Leftovers?
- Pasta Sauce: Reduce the soup on the stove until thickened and toss with your favorite pasta.
- Pot Pie Filling: Use the condensed soup as a chicken or vegetable pot pie base.
- Risotto Base: Instead of stock, use the soup to cook and flavor a creamy risotto.
- Casserole: Layer with vegetables, cheese, and maybe some cooked chicken for a hearty casserole.
- Bread Bowl: Serve inside hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic presentation.
TIPS
- Clean the Gizzards: Thoroughly clean and trim the gizzards before cooking to remove any impurities or tough parts.
- Marinate for Flavor: Marinate the gizzards in herbs and spices before cooking to enhance their flavor and tenderness.
- Slow Simmering: Cook the gizzards in a flavorful broth over low heat for a prolonged period to ensure they become tender and flavorful.
- Creamy Base: Use a creamy base such as heavy cream or coconut milk to give the soup a rich and luxurious texture.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Finish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Fresh and Flavorful Cream of Gizzard Soup Recipe (Perfect For Dining Experience)
Course: Soup Recipes4
servings20
minutes1
hour30
minutes200-300
kcalCream of Gizzard Soup is a rich, hearty concoction that combines the unique texture of gizzards with the silkiness of cream, accentuated by the earthiness of potatoes and aromatic vegetables. It’s a culinary journey through rustic flavors, offering warmth and comfort in every spoonful.
Ingredients
1/2 Pound 1/2 Gizzards
4 Tablespoons 4 Butter
2 2 Onions (Peeled And Diced)
2 2 Celery Sticks (Chopped)
1 Quart 1 Homemade Chicken Broth
1 1 Bay Leaf
4 4 Potatoes (Peeled And Diced Into ½-Inch Pieces)
1/2 Cup 1/2 Cream (Preferably Raw)
Sea Salt (To Taste)
Freshly Ground Black Pepper (To Taste)
STEP-BY-STEP Directions
- Preparation Steps
Gizzard Cleaning: Begin by washing the gizzards thoroughly to remove any grit. Examine each for bits of yellow, wrinkly skin, which represents the inside lining of the gizzard. Peel off this skin, as it’s easily removable. Once cleaned, segment each gizzard into 3 or 4 parts. - Cooking
Sautéing Base: Place it over medium heat in a large saucepan, and melt the butter. Introduce the diced onion and chopped celery. Let them sauté, occasionally stirring, for around 15 minutes or until they attain a soft, sweet texture.
Gizzard Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth. Add the bay leaf and the prepared gizzard pieces. Turn up the heat to a high setting, allowing the mixture to reach a boil. Once boiling, dial down the heat to let it simmer. The simmering process tenderizes the gizzards, and the duration will hinge on their initial toughness and altitude. This could range from 1 to 2 hours.
Potato Addition: After ensuring the gizzards are tender, fish out the bay leaf and discard. Integrate the diced potatoes into the saucepan. Allow them to cook until they become tender. - Blending and Final Touches
Creamy Finish: As you near the serving time, blend in the raw cream for a luxurious texture. Season the soup with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. - Serving
Plating Up: Serve the Cream of Gizzard Soup hot, preferably in pre-warmed bowls. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. - EQUIPMENT LIST
- Large Saucepan or Stockpot
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Wooden Spoon or Ladle
- Strainer
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Blender or Immersion Blender
- Airtight Containers
- Thermometer
Notes
- Gizzards are a great source of lean protein, and when sourced organically, they can be free from antibiotics and hormones.
- The soup’s consistency can be adjusted by altering the cream quantity, making it as thick or thin as desired.
- Gizzards require thorough cleaning; residual grit can affect the soup’s texture.
- Using homemade broth can significantly elevate the soup’s taste and nutritional content.
- For a dairy-free version, coconut cream can be a viable substitute.
- If storing for later, always reheat to a proper temperature to ensure taste and safety.
Nutrition Table
