Chicken liver pate with cucumber slices

Why This Works for Intermittent Fasting

Chicken liver is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet — packed with protein, iron, zinc, selenium, and vitamin B12 — making it an exceptional first meal after a long fasting window. The generous butter content provides slow-burning fat that keeps you satiated for hours, so your eating window stays clean and controlled. Served on cool cucumber rounds instead of bread, this pâté keeps carbohydrates near zero.

Ingredients

• 300g chicken livers, trimmed and patted dry
• 3 tbsp butter, divided (plus extra to seal if desired)
• 2 tbsp ghee
• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
• ½ tsp sea salt, plus more to taste
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Pinch of ground nutmeg
• 1 large cucumber, sliced into rounds (about 5mm thick)
• Fresh chives or parsley, to garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Melt 1 tbsp butter and the ghee in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the shallots and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
2. Add the garlic and thyme, stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken livers in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until browned on the outside but still slightly pink in the centre — do not overcook or the pâté will taste grainy.
4. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
5. Transfer the livers, shallots, garlic, and all pan juices into a food processor. Add the remaining 2 tbsp butter, heavy cream, sea salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
6. Blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Taste and adjust seasoning.
7. Transfer to a bowl or small ramekins. Press a piece of cling film directly onto the surface (or top with a thin layer of melted butter) to prevent browning. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
8. When ready to serve, slice the cucumber into rounds and arrange on a plate. Top each round with a generous spoonful of pâté. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if using.

Nutrition Per Serving

Fasting Compatibility

Best for: 16:8, 18:6, OMAD. Chicken liver pâté is one of the most nutrient-complete foods you can eat after a long fast — it replenishes iron, B vitamins, and minerals that the body draws on during an extended fasting window, while the high fat content prevents insulin from spiking sharply at your first meal.

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