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Alexandrian Liver: A Classic Egyptian Street Food
Alexandrian Liver (Kebda Iskandarani) is one of Egypt’s most famous street foods, especially in Alexandria. This dish features tender beef liver, stir-fried with fragrant garlic, spicy chili, and bold seasonings. Served in baladi bread with tahini and pickles, it’s a must-try for liver lovers! Follow this step-by-step guide to make authentic Alexandrian Liver at home.
Ingredients
For the Liver:
- 500g beef liver, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 green chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon coriander
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (to tenderize the liver)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
For Serving:
- Baladi bread or pita
- Tahini sauce
- Pickled vegetables (turnips, carrots, cucumbers)
- Fresh lemon wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Liver:
- Rinse the beef liver under cold water and pat dry.
- Cut into thin, bite-sized strips.
- Toss with vinegar and lemon juice in a bowl, then let sit for 5 minutes to remove any strong odor.
- Drain and pat dry again.
2. Cook the Liver:
- Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and chili peppers and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Increase heat to high, then add the liver slices in a single layer.
- Let the liver sear for 1-2 minutes without stirring.
- Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, paprika, and chili powder.
- Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the liver is browned and fully cooked but still tender.
3. Final Touches & Serving:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked liver.
- Serve hot in baladi bread or pita, topped with tahini sauce and pickled vegetables.
- Garnish with extra chili or lemon wedges for added flavor.
Tips for the Best Alexandrian Liver:
✅ Don’t overcook—Liver becomes tough if overcooked. Cook until just done.
✅ Use fresh lemon & vinegar—They help remove any strong liver taste.
✅ Cook on high heat—For a quick sear and tender texture.
✅ Pair with tahini & pickles—This is how it’s served on Egyptian streets!
Now you can enjoy authentic Alexandrian Liver at home! Would you like a spicy or extra garlicky variation? 😊🔥
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