The Stigma Around Offal

Offal often gets a bad rap due to misconceptions about its taste, texture, and even its purpose. For many, it’s associated with tough childhood memories of being forced to eat overcooked liver or kidneys, or perhaps it feels too "exotic" compared to standard cuts like chicken breast or sirloin steak.

Additionally, in today’s fast-paced food culture, there’s a tendency to opt for convenience over curiosity. Supermarkets display prime cuts prominently, while offal, if available at all, is tucked away in smaller sections. This perpetuates the idea that offal is "lesser" or unusual.

But this couldn’t be further from the truth. Offal is a culinary gem that’s packed with flavour, affordable, and incredibly versatile when prepared correctly.

Why You Should Eat Offal

Offal is often celebrated as a “superfood,” and for good reason. Nutritionally, it is unmatched. Take beef liver, for instance, which is rich in essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A for eye health and immune support, Vitamin B12 for energy production and brain function, and vital minerals such as iron and zinc that promote oxygen transport and a robust immune system. Adding offal to your diet can help address nutrient deficiencies and enhance overall well-being.

From a sustainability perspective, offal represents a powerful way to reduce food waste and honor the entire animal. By embracing these less popular cuts, we not only reduce waste but also support sustainable farming practices. At Eversfield Organic, this commitment to nose-to-tail eating aligns with our values of ethical and environmentally conscious food production.

Offal is also incredibly budget-friendly. Typically more affordable than prime cuts, it’s an excellent option for families and budget-conscious cooks. Despite its lower cost, when prepared properly, offal can deliver a depth of flavour that rivals even your most loved steak.

Finally, offal connects us to a rich culinary heritage. Across the globe, it has been a cornerstone of iconic dishes, from French pâtés to British steak and kidney pie, and Italian fegato alla veneziana. Rediscovering offal not only expands your culinary repertoire but also reconnects you with the history of resourceful, flavourful cooking.

Tips for Cooking Offal

• Start Small
  If you’re new to offal, start with milder options like liver or heart, which are easier to cook and have a more approachable flavour.

• Balance Flavours
  Pair offal with bold flavours like garlic, herbs, and spices to complement its richness.

• Experiment with Familiar Dishes
  Incorporate offal into classics like shepherd’s pie, Bolognese, or tacos for a subtle introduction.

• Buy Organic
  Quality matters with offal. Choosing organic, pasture-raised options ensures superior flavour and ethical farming practices.

Fancy a go? Try our Offal Shepherd’s Pie: 

This comforting shepherd’s pie sneaks in beef liver for a nutritious twist. It’s the perfect dish for newcomers to offal.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 250g Eversfield Organic Beef Liver, finely diced 
• 300g Eversfield Organic Minced Beef
• 1 large organic onion, finely chopped
• 2 organic carrots, diced
• 1 organic celery stick, diced
• 2 cloves organic garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp organic olive oil
• 1 tbsp organic tomato puree
• 200ml organic beef stock
• 100ml organic red wine (optional)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 800g organic potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 50g organic butter
• 50ml organic milk or cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

   • Heat olive oil in a pan and brown the minced beef. Remove and set aside.
   • Sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened. Stir in the tomato puree, thyme, and diced liver. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
   • Add the minced beef back in, pour in the wine (if using), and reduce for 2 minutes. Stir in the beef stock and simmer for 15 minutes until thickened.

2. Make the Mash

   • Boil potatoes until tender. Mash with butter and milk, seasoning with salt and pepper.

3. Assemble and Bake

   • Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Spread the filling in an ovenproof dish, top with mashed potatoes, and bake for 25 minutes until golden.