Kidneys are often overlooked in the world of cooking, but they are a delicacy that can add a lot of depth and flavour to your dishes. Whether you are an adventurous eater or simply looking to try something new, cooking kidneys is an excellent way to add variety to your meals.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to cook kidneys. We will cover everything from selecting the right kind of kidneys to serving suggestions. So, let’s get started!
Preparation
Before you start cooking your kidneys, it’s essential to prepare them properly. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Selecting the Right Kind of Kidneys
When selecting kidneys, you have two options: lamb or beef. Lamb kidneys have a milder flavour and are generally more tender, while beef kidneys have a stronger, richer flavour. Choose the type that best suits your taste preferences.
Cleaning and Trimming the Kidneys
Cleaning and trimming the kidneys is crucial to remove any impurities and ensure they are ready to cook. Start by removing the membrane that covers the kidneys, then cut them in half lengthwise. Using a sharp knife, remove any white fat, gristle or sinew, and discard them. Rinse the kidneys under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Soaking the Kidneys
After cleaning the kidneys, it’s essential to soak them in cold water for at least one hour to remove any excess blood. Drain the water and pat them dry again before cooking.
Now that you have prepared your kidneys let’s move on to the various cooking methods you can use.
Cooking Methods
Kidneys can be cooked in various ways depending on your preference. Here are three popular methods:
Grilling Kidneys
Grilled kidneys are delicious and easy to prepare. Start by marinating the kidneys in your preferred seasoning for at least an hour. Heat your grill to high heat and place the kidneys on the grill for 4-5 minutes on each side. Serve the grilled kidneys immediately, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon juice.
Frying Kidneys
Fried kidneys are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them an excellent addition to any meal. Start by heating oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Coat the kidneys in flour or breadcrumbs and fry them in the oil for 5-6 minutes on each side. Serve the fried kidneys hot, garnished with herbs and a wedge of lemon.
Continue with sections 3 and 4.
Cooking Methods (continued)
Braising Kidneys
Braising is a slow-cooking method that involves cooking the kidneys in a liquid. It’s an excellent way to tenderize the kidneys and infuse them with flavour. Start by heating oil in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, celery, and carrots and sauté until they are softened. Add the kidneys and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned. Pour in beef or chicken stock, red wine, or tomato sauce, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the kidneys are tender.
Recipes
Here are three recipes you can try to cook kidneys:
Fried Kidneys with Herbs
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb or beef kidneys, cleaned and trimmed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the kidneys in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Heat the oil and butter in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the kidneys and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned.
- Add the garlic, thyme, and parsley and cook for another minute.
- Serve the fried kidneys hot, with lemon wedges on the side.
Grilled Kidneys with Garlic Butter
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb or beef kidneys, cleaned and trimmed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Season the kidneys with salt and pepper.
- Heat a grill to high heat.
- Grill the kidneys for 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked to your liking.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the garlic and rosemary and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve the grilled kidneys hot, drizzled with the garlic butter and lemon wedges on the side.
Braised Kidneys with Red Wine
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb or beef kidneys, cleaned and trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 cup beef or chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, celery, and carrots and sauté until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the kidneys and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned.
- Pour in the red wine and stock and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the kidneys are tender.
- Serve the braised kidneys hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
