Oven-baked pheasant with vegetables

Oven-Roasted Pheasant with Vegetables

Pheasant, with its delicate and flavorful meat, is a special ingredient that can transform an ordinary meal into a true culinary feast. Preparing pheasant may seem intimidating to some, but with a few tricks and useful tips, you'll achieve an exceptional dish full of flavor. This oven-roasted pheasant with vegetables recipe is an excellent choice for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dinner. The total preparation time is approximately 4 hours, and this recipe serves 4 delicious portions.

Ingredients:
- 1 pheasant (approximately 1.5-2 kg)
- 2 carrots
- 1 red onion
- 1 white onion
- 1 small broccoli
- 4-5 potatoes
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- ½ cup of olive oil
- 1 large glass of white wine (preferably dry)
- Bay leaves
- Pepper
- Sweet paprika
- Marjoram
- Thyme
- Rosemary
- Salt

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 3-4 hours
Total time: 4 hours
Number of servings: 4

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by thoroughly washing the pheasant, both inside and out. Make sure to remove any leftover feathers or internal organs. You can use a paper towel to dry it. This step is essential for achieving optimal meat texture.

Step 2: Cutting the vegetables
Peel the carrots and slice them into rounds. The red and white onions can be julienned to add an elegant touch to the dish. Peel the potatoes and cut them into large pieces, and break the broccoli into florets. These vegetables will add not only flavor but also an attractive color contrast on the plate.

Step 3: Marinating the pheasant
In a bowl, combine half of the olive oil with half of the wine and all the spices (salt, pepper, sweet paprika, marjoram, thyme, and rosemary). Rub the pheasant well with this mixture, ensuring it reaches all corners, including the inside. This step will enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Assembling the dish
In a heat-resistant dish, pour the remaining oil and place three-quarters of the chopped onion and carrots. These vegetables will act as a bed for the pheasant, allowing it to roast evenly. Place the remaining vegetables (onion, carrots) and crushed garlic cloves inside the pheasant. Place the pheasant over the vegetables, cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil, and put it in the oven.

Step 5: Roasting the pheasant
Set the oven to a low temperature of about 160-180°C. Roast the pheasant for 3-4 hours, turning it from side to side every 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking and a juicy texture.

Step 6: Adding the potatoes and broccoli
About 30 minutes before the pheasant is done, add the cut potatoes and broccoli florets to the dish. They will roast together with the pheasant, absorbing the delicious flavors.

Step 7: Serving
Once the pheasant is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This step is important for redistributing the juices in the meat, making it juicier. Serve the pheasant with the cooked vegetables alongside a glass of white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Useful tips:
- If your pheasant seems lean or dry, consider barding it with strips of bacon or lard before cooking. This will add fat and moisture, improving the meat's texture.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a cranberry sauce or a fresh salad, which will add a note of freshness.

Nutritional benefits:
Pheasant is an excellent source of protein, having a lower fat content compared to other types of meat. Additionally, the added vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, C, and fiber.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace the wine with something else?
- Yes, you can use chicken broth or water, but the wine adds a unique flavor and pleasant acidity.

2. Is pheasant hard to cook?
- No, with a little patience and by following the correct steps, anyone can prepare a delicious pheasant.

3. Can I make the recipe without broccoli?
- Of course! You can add other vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or cauliflower, depending on your preferences.

This oven-roasted pheasant with vegetables recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also become a cherished dish to share with loved ones. Try it and enjoy every bite!