Catalan-style roasted rabbit

Recipe: Catalan Style Oven Rabbit

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Catalan style oven rabbit is a traditional delicacy that brings not only tender and flavorful meat to the plate but also a story full of taste. This recipe reminds us of Sunday family meals, when everyone gathers to enjoy a dish cooked with love. Rabbit, rich in protein and low in fat, is a healthy choice worth trying.

Ingredients:
- 800 g rabbit meat (preferably young meat for maximum tenderness)
- 40 g roasted hazelnuts (choose fresh, high-quality nuts for an intense flavor)
- 1 glass of white wine (a dry wine will add depth to the flavors)
- Extra virgin olive oil (preferably, to benefit from all its flavors)
- 2 cloves of garlic (fresh and aromatic, providing a strong taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (if you have fresh basil, use it for an extra touch of freshness)
- 3-4 large potatoes (choose waxy potatoes that roast well and turn golden)

Preparation instructions:

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by washing the rabbit meat well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any traces of blood or impurities. After washing the meat, pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess water. Then, season the meat with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes to allow the spices to penetrate.

2. Preparing the potatoes:
Peel the potatoes and cut them into quarters. These will become the perfect side dish for your rabbit. The potatoes absorb the flavors from the cooking sauce, making them a delicious accompaniment.

3. Preparing the baking dish:
In a baking dish, evenly arrange the rabbit meat and the cut potatoes. Make sure they are not overlapping, so they cook evenly. Drizzle the olive oil over the ingredients, lightly covering everything.

4. Initial cooking:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 20 minutes. This will allow the meat to infuse and become tender.

5. Preparing the hazelnut sauce:
Meanwhile, in a wooden bowl, add the 2 cloves of garlic and the roasted hazelnuts. Use a pestle to crush them lightly, but do not turn everything into a paste. Aim for a coarser texture, which will add a pleasant contrast to the sauce.

6. Adding the wine and sauce:
After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Turn the potatoes to the other side and pour the white wine over the meat. Then, add the hazelnut and garlic mixture. Gently mix everything to combine the flavors.

7. Final cooking:
Put the dish back in the oven and let it bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the meat is browned and crispy. Make sure to turn the meat halfway through the cooking time for even browning.

8. Serving:
When the rabbit is ready, remove the dish from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Serve it warm, accompanied by green olives and a glass of chilled white wine. A rocket salad with cherry tomatoes would make an excellent side, bringing a fresh contrast.

Useful tips:
- Ensure the rabbit is fresh for the best flavor. If you can't find fresh meat, you can use frozen meat, but let it fully thaw before cooking.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add some fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, during cooking.
- Vary the recipe by adding vegetables, such as carrots or onions, to enrich the dish.

Nutritional benefits:
Rabbit meat is an excellent source of protein, containing fewer saturated fats compared to other types of meat. It is rich in vitamins B3 and B12, which contribute to the health of the nervous and metabolic systems. Hazelnuts provide healthy fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential minerals.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken instead of rabbit?
- Of course! Chicken is an excellent alternative, but you need to adjust the cooking time as it cooks faster.

2. What kind of white wine should I use?
- Choose a dry wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which will complement the flavors of the rabbit meat.

3. Can I cook this recipe on the grill?
- Absolutely! This recipe can also be adapted for grilling, but make sure to control the temperature to avoid drying out the meat.

Catalan style oven rabbit is a recipe that will surely impress everyone who tastes it. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicacy, which will fill the house with savory aromas and create unforgettable memories around the table. Enjoy your meal!