SKILPADJIES – LAMB LIVER WRAPPED IN CAUL FAT AND GRILLED

Skilpadjies are a traditional South African delicacy: lamb liver parcels wrapped in caul fat, grilled over coals for a smoky, rich flavor. This rustic dish is beloved at braais, offering bold taste and authentic heritage in every bite.  

INGREDIENTS 
- 500 g lamb liver (approx. 1.1 lbs)  
- 250 g caul fat (approx. 9 oz)  
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (150 g / 5.3 oz)  
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (10 g / 0.35 oz)  
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (15 g / 0.5 oz)  
- 1 tsp ground coriander (5 g / 0.18 oz)  
- 1 tsp paprika (5 g / 0.18 oz)  
- 1 tsp salt (5 g / 0.18 oz)  
- 1 tsp black pepper (5 g / 0.18 oz)  
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz)  

PREP & COOKING TIMES
- Prep time: 25 minutes  
- Cooking time: 20–25 minutes  
- Total time: 45–50 minutes  

STEP-BY-STEP COOKING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prepare the liver: Trim lamb liver and cut into small cubes.  
2. Make the filling: In a bowl, mix liver cubes with onion, garlic, parsley, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper.  
3. Wrap parcels: Cut caul fat into squares. Place a spoonful of liver mixture in the center, fold edges over to form a parcel.  
4. Secure parcels: Brush lightly with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.  
5. Grill: Place parcels over medium-hot coals. Grill for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally until caul fat crisps and liver is cooked through.  
6. Serve: Enjoy hot with pap, fresh bread, or a tomato relish.  

HELPFUL COOKING TIPS
- Chill caul fat before cutting; it’s easier to handle when firm.  
- Grill parcels slowly over medium coals to avoid burning the fat before the liver cooks.  
- For extra flavor, marinate liver cubes in a splash of vinegar and herbs for 1–2 hours before wrapping.  
- Serve with a tangy chutney or spicy relish to balance the richness.  
- If caul fat is unavailable, thin streaky bacon can be used as a substitute wrap.  

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (PER PARCEL, APPROX.)
- Calories: 220 kcal  
- Protein: 16 g  
- Fat: 16 g  
- Carbohydrates: 4 g  
- Fiber: 1 g  
- Sugar: 1 g  

DIETARY TAGS
- High-protein  
- Dairy-free  
- Gluten-free  
- Contains meat (non-vegetarian)  

ALLERGEN INFORMATION
- Contains offal (liver) – may not be suitable for sensitive eaters  
- Caul fat is animal-derived (not vegetarian/vegan)  
- No common allergens like nuts, dairy, or gluten unless cross-contamination occurs