Looking for a unique and delicious way to impress your guests at your next special occasion? Look no further than heart-healthy (pun intended) dishes featuring various types of hearts – beef, lamb, pork, chicken, duck, and venison. From classic comfort foods to exotic flavors, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 mouth-watering recipes that will leave your taste buds singing.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey around the world, exploring different ways to prepare these often-overlooked yet incredibly flavorful cuts of meat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to spice up your usual meal routine, our selection of hearts recipes is sure to inspire and delight. So, let’s get started and discover the delicious versatility of heart-y cuisine!
Grilled Chicken Hearts with Garlic Butter
Elevate your grilling game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of chicken hearts with the pungency of garlic butter. Perfect for adventurous eaters and outdoor enthusiasts!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken hearts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season chicken hearts with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken hearts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken hearts.
6. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef Heart Stew with Root Vegetables
This comforting stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, combining tender beef heart with a medley of root vegetables. A simple and flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef heart, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef heart over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped vegetables, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Pan-Seared Duck Hearts with Rosemary
Elevate your dining experience with this simple yet impressive recipe, showcasing the rich flavors of duck hearts and rosemary. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 duck hearts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the duck hearts with salt and pepper.
3. Add the olive oil to the preheated skillet and swirl it around.
4. Sear the duck hearts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the duck hearts from the skillet and place them on a plate.
6. Stir in the chopped rosemary into the remaining oil in the skillet.
7. Serve the pan-seared duck hearts with the rosemary-infused oil spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lamb Heart Kebabs with Mint Yogurt Sauce
Transform lamb hearts into a flavorful and nutritious snack or appetizer with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb hearts, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers for kebab assembly
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, mint, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Thread lamb heart pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush both sides of the kebabs with the mint yogurt sauce.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Serve warm with additional mint yogurt sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Braised Pork Hearts in Red Wine Sauce
Braised Pork Hearts in Red Wine Sauce: A Hearty and Flavorful Dish
This recipe showcases the tender and rich flavor of pork hearts, slow-cooked in a velvety red wine sauce. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork hearts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pork hearts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork hearts until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add diced onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the pork hearts to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Venison Heart Tartare with Capers
Experience the bold flavor of venison heart paired with the tangy zip of capers in this elegant appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup venison heart, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine venison heart, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and capers. Mix until just combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None (raw)
Smoked Turkey Hearts with BBQ Glaze
Savor the rich flavors of smoked turkey hearts smothered in a tangy and sweet BBQ glaze, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey hearts
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– BBQ glaze ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season the turkey hearts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Smoke the turkey hearts for 4-5 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. While the turkey hearts are smoking, prepare the BBQ glaze by whisking together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Remove the smoked turkey hearts from the smoker and brush with the BBQ glaze.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) + 15 minutes (brushing with glaze)
Chicken Heart Skewers with Chimichurri
A flavorful and exotic twist on traditional skewers, this recipe combines the richness of chicken hearts with the bright, herby flavor of chimichurri.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken hearts, cleaned and patted dry
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken hearts to the marinade and mix well to coat.
4. Thread 2-3 chicken heart pieces onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with additional chimichurri sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Heart Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the rich taste of beef heart with a zesty lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef heart, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the beef heart over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning beef heart mixture onto tortillas and topping with lime crema, desired toppings.
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Combine all ingredients in a bowl; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Roasted Lamb Hearts with Herbs de Provence
A flavorful and exotic dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, this recipe highlights the tender and rich flavor of lamb hearts. The addition of Herbs de Provence adds a savory and aromatic twist.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb hearts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Herbs de Provence
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the lamb hearts under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil and Herbs de Provence.
4. Place the lamb hearts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush them evenly with the herb mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the lamb hearts are cooked through and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pork Heart Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stir-fries, showcasing the tender and delicious pork heart as the main ingredient. With the bold flavors of ginger and soy sauce, this dish is sure to please even the most adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork heart, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ginger and garlic; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the pork heart strips; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce and chicken broth; stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-Cooked Beef Heart Chili
A hearty and comforting chili recipe that’s perfect for a cold winter day. This slow-cooked beef heart chili is rich in flavor and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef heart, cut into small pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, brown the beef heart in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and browned beef heart. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Duck Heart Salad with Arugula and Pomegranate
Experience the rich flavors of duck heart paired with peppery arugula and sweet pomegranate seeds. This refreshing salad is perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck hearts, cooked through
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked duck hearts, arugula, and pomegranate seeds.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze with lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Venison Heart Pâté with Crackers
Savor the rich flavors of wild game with this Venison Heart Pâté recipe, perfect for serving with crackers or toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 venison heart (about 1 pound), cleaned and chopped
– 1/4 cup cognac or other brown liquor
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped venison heart and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the cognac, chicken broth, garlic, tomato paste, and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let pâté simmer for 1 hour, or until it reaches desired consistency.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let cool completely before serving with crackers or toasted baguette slices.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Chicken Heart Curry with Coconut Milk
This aromatic curry dish is a twist on the classic Indian recipe, featuring tender chicken hearts in a rich and creamy coconut milk-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken hearts, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken hearts; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk; season with salt to taste.
6. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves; serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Beef Hearts with Chimichurri Sauce
Grilled Beef Hearts with Chimichurri Sauce: A flavorful and bold twist on traditional grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 4 beef hearts, trimmed of excess fat and membranes
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Brush the chimichurri sauce on both sides of the beef hearts.
4. Grill the beef hearts for 8-10 minutes per side, or until they reach desired level of doneness.
5. Let the beef hearts rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Lamb Heart Ragu with Pappardelle
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that showcases the rich taste of lamb heart, slow-cooked in a rich tomato ragù and served with a generous helping of pappardelle.
Ingredients:
– 1 lamb heart, cleaned and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz pappardelle pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the lamb heart and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine, beef broth, and oregano. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender.
5. Cook pappardelle according to package instructions. Drain and serve with the lamb heart ragù.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Pork Heart Terrine with Pistachios
This terrine recipe showcases the tender flavor of pork heart, perfectly balanced by the crunch and nutty flavor of pistachios. A perfect appetizer or light meal for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pork heart, cleaned and chopped
– 1/2 cup pistachio meal
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine pork heart, pistachio meal, chicken broth, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the mixture into a terrine dish or small loaf pan.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the meat is cooked through and slightly firm to the touch.
6. Let it rest at room temperature before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 18 delicious heart recipes perfect for special occasions. From classic grilled chicken hearts with garlic butter to exotic venison heart tartare with capers, there’s something for everyone. Try pan-seared duck hearts with rosemary or lamb heart kebabs with mint yogurt sauce for a flavorful twist. Or, opt for comforting slow-cooked beef heart chili or braised pork hearts in red wine sauce. Whatever your taste, these recipes will surely be the star of the show.