Pork Liver
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Pork Liver

Sus scrofa domesticus

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Pork Liver provides 175 kcal, 25g of protein, 0.5g of carbohydrates, and 0g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Pork liver is a nutrient-dense organ meat that is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A and iron. It is often used in various cuisines around the world for its robust flavor and health benefits.

Also known as:
Pork OffalLiverwurst
Scientific NameSus scrofa domesticus
Region of OriginGlobal

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories175 kcal
Water
70%
Fiber0g
Total30.5g
Protein
25g(82%)
Fats
5g(16%)
Carbohydrates
0.5g(2%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin A14000 IU (280%)
Vitamin B1270.7 mcg (1178%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron18 mg (100%)
Zinc4 mg (36%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Pork liver is an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health.
Rich in iron, pork liver can help prevent anemia and support overall energy levels by improving oxygen transport in the blood.
The high vitamin B12 content in pork liver supports nerve function and the production of DNA and red blood cells.
Pork liver contains significant amounts of zinc, which is crucial for immune function, wound healing, and protein synthesis.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Excessive consumption of pork liver can lead to hypervitaminosis A due to its high vitamin A content, which can be toxic in large amounts.
!Individuals with certain health conditions, such as gout or kidney disease, should limit their intake of organ meats due to their purine content.

How to Prepare & Consume

Pork liver can be sautéed, grilled, or made into pâté. It is best cooked quickly to retain its tenderness and flavor. Avoid overcooking to prevent a tough texture.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose fresh pork liver that is deep red in color and has a smooth texture. Avoid any liver that appears discolored or has an off smell.

How to Store

Store pork liver in the refrigerator and use it within 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container.

Myths vs Realities

MythEating liver can cause vitamin A toxicity.
RealityWhile liver is high in vitamin A, moderate consumption is safe for most people; toxicity occurs only with excessive intake.
MythAll organ meats are unhealthy.
RealityOrgan meats like pork liver are nutrient-dense and can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
MythPork liver is not suitable for people with high cholesterol.
RealityWhile pork liver is high in cholesterol, it can still be included in a balanced diet if consumed in moderation.

Healthy Recipes

Spicy Pork Liver Stir-Fry

This vibrant stir-fry combines tender pork liver with colorful bell peppers and a spicy ginger-garlic sauce for a nutritious and flavorful meal.

Ingredients
  • 500g pork liver, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili paste
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. 2. Add ginger and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, then add the sliced pork liver and cook until browned.
  3. 3. Stir in the bell peppers, soy sauce, chili paste, salt, and pepper, cooking until the peppers are tender.

Pork Liver Pâté with Herbs

A creamy and rich pork liver pâté infused with fresh herbs, perfect for spreading on whole-grain crackers or toast.

Ingredients
  • 300g pork liver
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 100g butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
  1. 1. Sauté onion and garlic in butter until soft, then add the pork liver and cook until no longer pink.
  2. 2. Transfer to a food processor, add herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and blend until smooth.
  3. 3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Pork Liver and Quinoa Salad

A hearty salad featuring sautéed pork liver over a bed of quinoa, mixed greens, and a tangy vinaigrette for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 200g pork liver, diced
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Sauté diced pork liver in olive oil until cooked through, then season with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cooked liver.
  3. 3. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, toss gently, and serve.

Pork Liver Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Delicious tacos filled with sautéed pork liver and topped with a fresh avocado salsa for a healthy twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 300g pork liver, sliced
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Cilantro for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook sliced pork liver in a skillet until browned, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix avocado, red onion, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.
  3. 3. Serve the pork liver in tortillas topped with avocado salsa and cilantro.

Pork Liver and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a nutritious mixture of pork liver, spinach, and brown rice, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved
  • 250g pork liver, minced
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. 2. Sauté onion until soft, add minced pork liver and cook until browned, then stir in spinach until wilted.
  3. 3. Mix in cooked rice, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then stuff the mixture into halved peppers and bake for 25 minutes.

Pork Liver and Apple Skillet

A delightful combination of savory pork liver and sweet apples, sautéed together for a unique and healthy dish.

Ingredients
  • 300g pork liver, sliced
  • 2 apples, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet, add sliced pork liver and cook until browned.
  2. 2. Add apple slices, sprinkle with cinnamon, salt, and pepper, and sauté until apples are tender.
  3. 3. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Pork Liver and Lentil Stew

A hearty stew made with tender pork liver, lentils, and vegetables, perfect for a comforting yet healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 250g pork liver, diced
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion, carrot, and celery until soft.
  2. 2. Add diced pork liver and cook until browned, then stir in lentils, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Simmer for 30-40 minutes until lentils are tender, and serve hot.

Pork Liver and Vegetable Frittata

A protein-packed frittata featuring pork liver and seasonal vegetables, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 200g pork liver, diced
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. 2. Sauté diced pork liver and bell pepper in olive oil until cooked through, then add spinach until wilted.
  3. 3. In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper, pour over the liver mixture, and bake for 20-25 minutes until set.

Pork Liver and Sweet Potato Hash

A nutritious hash made with diced pork liver and sweet potatoes, seasoned with herbs for a filling breakfast or lunch.

Ingredients
  • 300g pork liver, diced
  • 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet, add sweet potatoes and cook until tender.
  2. 2. Add onion and pork liver, season with paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook until liver is browned.
  3. 3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Pork Liver Curry with Coconut Milk

A flavorful curry featuring tender pork liver simmered in coconut milk and spices, served with brown rice for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 300g pork liver, sliced
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons curry paste
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in a pot until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add pork liver and cook until browned, then stir in curry paste and coconut milk.
  3. 3. Simmer for 20 minutes, season with salt and pepper, and serve garnished with cilantro over brown rice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is pork liver healthy?

Yes, pork liver is highly nutritious and provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

How often should I eat pork liver?

It is recommended to consume organ meats like pork liver in moderation, about once a week, to avoid excessive vitamin A intake.

Can I eat pork liver raw?

No, it is not safe to eat pork liver raw due to the risk of foodborne illnesses; it should always be cooked thoroughly.

What are the best ways to cook pork liver?

Pork liver can be best cooked by sautéing, grilling, or making pâté. Quick cooking methods help retain its tenderness.

Is pork liver high in cholesterol?

Yes, pork liver is high in cholesterol, so individuals with cholesterol concerns should consume it in moderation.

Can pregnant women eat pork liver?

Pregnant women should limit their intake of liver due to high vitamin A levels, which can affect fetal development.

What nutrients are found in pork liver?

Pork liver is rich in vitamin A, vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and other essential nutrients.

How should I store pork liver?

Pork liver should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 1-2 days of purchase or frozen for longer storage.