Are you looking for a unique twist on traditional romantic dinners? Look no further than these delicious heart-based recipes. From grilled chicken hearts with garlic butter to slow-cooked ox heart with onions, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering options to impress your loved one.
Whether you’re a meat-and-potatoes kind of person or prefer something more exotic, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to please. And the best part? These dishes are all surprisingly easy to make and require minimal special equipment.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of hearts in cooking, from classic comfort food to international flavors and spices. So go ahead, get creative, and treat your sweetheart (or yourself!) to a romantic dinner that will leave them wanting more.
Grilled Chicken Hearts with Garlic Butter
A flavorful and savory twist on traditional grilled chicken, this recipe adds a rich and aromatic garlic butter sauce to tenderize and elevate the dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken hearts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the chicken hearts under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Season the chicken hearts with salt and pepper.
5. Brush both sides of each heart with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Grill the chicken hearts for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Beef Heart Stew with Root Vegetables
A hearty and comforting stew that showcases the rich flavor of beef heart, paired with a medley of root vegetables. Perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef heart, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced beef heart and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and parsnip to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add the cooked beef heart back into the pot along with the beef broth and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Lamb Heart Kebabs
This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional lamb kebabs, adding the tender and nutritious heart to the mix. The spicy kick from the chili flakes will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb hearts, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the lamb heart cubes to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Thread the marinated lamb heart onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill the kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Duck Hearts with Rosemary
Elevate your cooking game with this simple yet impressive recipe for pan-seared duck hearts, infused with the aromatic flavor of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck hearts, cleaned and trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the duck hearts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Add the olive oil to the preheated pan, then add the duck hearts in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches).
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the duck hearts are cooked through and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove the duck hearts from the pan, then sprinkle with chopped rosemary.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Braised Pork Hearts in Red Wine Sauce
Rich and flavorful, this dish is a perfect representation of the comforting fusion between traditional techniques and modern flavors. Savor the tender pork hearts smothered in a rich red wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork hearts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pork hearts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork hearts until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Return the pork hearts to the pot; cover with a lid. Transfer to preheated oven and braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Venison Heart Tartare with Capers
Experience the rich flavor of venison heart tartare elevated by the tangy zip of capers. This refined appetizer is perfect for game meat enthusiasts and adventurous palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 venison heart, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine venison heart, lemon juice, olive oil, onion, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until well combined, breaking up any larger pieces of meat.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, stir in capers.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional capers if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Smoked Turkey Hearts with Herbs
A savory twist on traditional turkey hearts, this recipe infuses the rich flavor of smoked meat with fresh herbs for a delightful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey hearts
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of smoking wood)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Rinse the turkey hearts under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
4. Rub the herb mixture evenly onto both sides of the turkey hearts.
5. Place the turkey hearts in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 2-3 hours or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Chicken Heart Skewers with Chimichurri
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this unique recipe that combines tender chicken hearts with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. Perfect for adventurous eaters and foodies alike, these skewers are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 12 chicken hearts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken hearts onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar.
4. Brush the chimichurri sauce evenly over the chicken hearts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Beef Heart Tacos with Avocado Salsa
This recipe takes the humble beef heart and elevates it to new heights by pairing it with creamy avocado salsa, crunchy lettuce, and a sprinkle of queso fresco. The result is a bold, savory, and slightly sweet flavor combination that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 beef heart, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado salsa (recipe below)
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Grill the beef heart strips for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Meanwhile, sauté the sliced red onion and chopped jalapeño in olive oil until softened.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by placing grilled beef heart on a tortilla, topping with sautéed onion mixture, avocado salsa, and queso fresco.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb Heart Curry with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic curry that showcases the tender texture of lamb hearts, enriched by the creamy goodness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb hearts, cleaned and chopped
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they start to brown.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add lamb hearts and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Simmer the curry for 20-25 minutes or until the lamb hearts are tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Fried Calamari Hearts with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with this crispy fried calamari recipe, served with a tangy and creamy lemon aioli.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 calamari hearts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon aioli (see below)
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each calamari heart into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the calamari hearts in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve with lemon aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total.
Stuffed Artichoke Hearts with Parmesan
A flavorful and elegant appetizer or side dish, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of artichokes with the savory richness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12-14 artichoke hearts (canned or fresh)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each artichoke heart with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the hearts.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
5. Arrange the stuffed artichokes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Hearts
Savor the rich flavors of chicken hearts wrapped in crispy bacon and smothered in a sweet and tangy glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken hearts
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse chicken hearts under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Wrap each heart with a half-slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
5. Place the wrapped chicken hearts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the glaze evenly over the chicken hearts.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bacon is crispy and chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Heart Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
This savory stir-fry brings together the rich flavor of beef heart, the spiciness of ginger, and the depth of soy sauce. A perfect combination for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 beef heart, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef heart strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey.
5. Pour the soy sauce mixture into the wok and stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the beef heart is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-Cooked Ox Heart with Onions
A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold winter evening. This slow-cooked ox heart with onions is tender, juicy, and packed with rich flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 ox heart, trimmed
– 2 large onions, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ox heart and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onions to the same skillet and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Place the browned ox heart in the slow cooker with the caramelized onions, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Grilled Quail Hearts with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with this flavorful and impressive dish, perfect for special occasions or a unique dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 12 quail hearts, cleaned and patted dry
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the quail hearts with the garlic mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Grill the quail hearts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. While the quail hearts are grilling, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan.
6. Bring the glaze to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened slightly.
7. Remove the quail hearts from the grill and brush with the balsamic glaze.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Heart Goulash with Paprika
Pork Heart Goulash with Paprika: A hearty and flavorful Hungarian-inspired stew that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. This rich and savory dish is made with tender pork heart, aromatic paprika, and a medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork heart, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork heart and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the pork heart to the pot and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the meat is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pickled Chicken Hearts with Spices
Pickled Chicken Hearts with Spices: A tangy and savory condiment perfect for snacks or as a topping for salads or sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken hearts, cleaned and trimmed
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup (60g) thinly sliced onion
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken hearts, vinegar, water, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the chicken is fully coated.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Just before serving, stir in the sliced onion.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Roasted Lamb Hearts with Mint Pesto
A flavorful and exotic twist on traditional lamb dishes, this recipe showcases the tender hearts of a lamb roasted to perfection and paired with a bright and herby mint pesto.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb hearts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the lamb hearts under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the lamb hearts, making sure they are evenly coated.
4. Place the lamb hearts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. While the lamb is roasting, combine mint leaves and Parmesan cheese in a food processor. Process until well combined and pesto-like consistency is reached.
6. Serve the roasted lamb hearts with the freshly made mint pesto spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Heart and Mushroom Pie
This savory pie combines the rich flavors of beef heart with sautéed mushrooms and a flaky crust, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef heart, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the beef heart strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter, onion, and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Arrange beef heart strips in the crust, followed by mushroom mixture.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, beef broth, milk, and thyme. Pour mixture over the filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your loved one with these 20 delicious heart recipes for romantic dinners. From grilled chicken hearts with garlic butter to pan-seared duck hearts with rosemary, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Try your hand at beef heart stew with root vegetables, spicy lamb heart kebabs, or braised pork hearts in red wine sauce. For a lighter option, go for venison heart tartare with capers or smoked turkey hearts with herbs. These unique and mouth-watering recipes are sure to make your dinner date unforgettable.
