Step 1: Clean Thoroughly
Rinse gizzards under cold water. Some come with the inner lining attached—you can remove it if desired, though many leave it on.
Step 2: Tenderize (Optional but Recommended)
Gizzards are tough because they're a working muscle. Pounding them gently or scoring them can help.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
The secret to tender gizzards is long, gentle cooking. Braising, stewing, or slow cooking breaks down the tough muscle fibers.
Step 4: Season Generously
Gizzards have a mild, slightly mineral flavor that takes well to bold seasonings—garlic, onion, herbs, spices.
Delicious Ways to Cook Gizzards
1. Fried Gizzards (Southern Style)
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Boil gizzards until tender (about 45 minutes)
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Drain, cool, and dredge in seasoned flour
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Deep fry until golden and crispy
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Serve with hot sauce
2. Gizzard Stew
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Brown gizzards in oil
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Add onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes
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Cover with broth and simmer for 1-2 hours
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Season with thyme, bay leaves, and pepper
3. Gizzard Adobo (Filipino Style)
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Simmer gizzards in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves
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Cook until tender and sauce reduces
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Serve with rice
4. Grilled Gizzards
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Marinate in garlic, lemon, and herbs
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Parboil first until tender
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Grill over high heat for char marks
5. Gizzard Curry
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Sauté onions, garlic, ginger, and spices
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Add gizzards and coconut milk
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Simmer until tender
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Serve with rice or naan
6. Gizzard Pâté
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Cook gizzards with shallots and herbs
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Blend with butter until smooth
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Serve on crusty bread
Tips for Tender Gizzards Every Time
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Cook low and slow – Quick cooking = rubbery gizzards
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Parboil before frying – Ensures they're tender inside
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Use a pressure cooker – Cuts cooking time dramatically
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Marinate overnight – Helps tenderize and add flavor
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Score or pound – Breaks down tough muscle fibers
Where to Buy Gizzards
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Grocery stores – Often in the meat section, sometimes frozen
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Butcher shops – Usually have fresh gizzards
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Farmers markets – Look for pastured chickens
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Ethnic markets – Latin, Asian, and African markets almost always carry them
Common Questions About Gizzards
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