Alexandrian Liver
The pride of Egyptian street food and the best-known liver recipe in the Arab world: thin slices of calf's liver quickly fried with garlic, chilli, cumin, coriander and lemon juice. Liver is almost free of carbohydrate, the glycemic index does not apply, and it is the top source of iron and B vitamins.
Glycemic index
Glycemic load
Calories
Protein
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Eat Alexandrian liver with a fork alongside tahini salad and a local vegetable salad, with one small flatbread rather than several rolls of refined white bread.
Best preparation methods
Stir-fry the liver over very high heat for just a few minutes so it stays tender and juicy without drying out, and finish with a whole lemon squeezed over it to boost iron absorption.
Important Nutritional Note
⚠️ Important nutritional and clinical warning: liver is an exceptional choice for supporting iron stores and haemoglobin, but pregnant women are advised not to eat too much of it because of its very high natural vitamin A content.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (150 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 195 kcal | 292.5 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g | 33 g |
| Carbohydrate | 2.5 g | 3.8 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 2 g | 3 g |
| Fat | 11 g | 16.5 g |
| Dietary fibre | 0.5 g | 0.8 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
It has 195 kcal per 100 g, ranking 16 of 28 in Arabic dishes (lowest first).
Related foods from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is Alexandrian Liver good for weight loss?
It can be a useful part of a weight-loss plan because it provides 11.3 g of protein per 100 kcal, and protein supports fullness. A 150 g portion gives 292 kcal.
How does Alexandrian Liver affect blood sugar?
Alexandrian Liver contains only 2 g of available carbohydrate per 100 g, so the glycemic index does not apply and its direct effect on blood sugar is minimal. The meal’s effect depends on what you eat with it, such as bread, rice or sweetened sauces.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Alexandrian Liver?
A typical 150 g portion of Alexandrian Liver provides about 292 kcal, 33 g protein, 3.8 g carbohydrate, 16.5 g fat and 0.8 g fibre.
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.