Calves’ livers with Maderia sauce, mash and deep-fried onion rings

A rich Maderia sauce brings out the best in liver. Take care not to overcook the liver as it can make it taste bitter.

Preparation method

1. For the Madeira sauce, heat the butter in a frying pan over a medium heat. When the butter is foaming add the shallots and fry for 2-3 minutes, or until just softened. Add the Madeira and thyme, stir well and bring to the boil. Simmer until the liquid has reduced in volume by a third.

2. Add the jus and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid has thickened. Add the sherry vinegar and chervil. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm until ready to serve.

3. For the mashed potato, boil the potatoes in salted water for 15 minutes, or until tender. Drain and place back into the pan over the heat to remove excess moisture. Mash the potatoes until smooth.

4. Heat the butter and milk in a saucepan until the butter is melted. Add to the mash and beat well until soft and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Place in a piping bag until needed and keep warm.

5. For the deep-fried onion rings, whisk the yeast and beer together in a bowl. Add 200g/7oz of the plain flour and whisk to a smooth batter. Set aside for 5 minutes.

6. Fill a deep-fat fryer or a large, deep, heavy-bottomed pan two-thirds full with vegetable oil. Heat the oil to 180C/456F. (CAUTION: Hot oil can be dangerous. Do not leave unattended.)

7. Dip the onion rings in the batter then lower them carefully into the hot oil (you may need to do this in batches). When the onion rings are golden-brown, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and season with salt and pepper. Drain on kitchen roll.

8. For the calves’ liver, season the plain flour with salt and pepper. Coat the slices of calves liver in the flour and shake off any excess.

9. Heat the butter in frying pan set over a medium heat. When the butter is foaming, fry the calves’ liver for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden-brown on both sides.

10. To serve, pipe the mash onto serving plates and put the liver alongside. Pour over the sauce and top with the onion rings.