Oven-roasted rabbit with herbs

Oven-Baked Rabbit with Herb Seasoning

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to your kitchen! Today we will prepare a delicious recipe for oven-baked rabbit, flavored with herbs and vegetables, promising not only a unique taste but also a memorable culinary experience. Rabbit, a meat low in fat and high in protein, becomes a delicacy when cooked correctly. This dish is perfect for family meals or special occasions and will prove to be an excellent choice for those looking to explore new flavors.

Your ingredients:

- 1 rabbit cut into pieces
- 1 kg potatoes, peeled and cut into thick strips
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 apples, peeled and quartered
- 100 ml olive oil
- 5 cloves of garlic, left whole
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon whole pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon curry
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika

Recipe history:

Preparing oven-baked rabbit is a culinary tradition rooted in rustic Italian and Mediterranean kitchens, where rabbit meat has always been appreciated for its flavor and tender texture. The aroma of fresh herbs and vegetables perfectly complements the meat, creating a dish that is not only tasty but also nutritious. This dish can be adapted according to personal preferences, and the addition of apples brings a unique note of sweetness.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the spices: In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, rosemary, oregano, thyme, curry, and sweet paprika. This spice blend will add an intense and aromatic flavor to your dish.

2. Seasoning the rabbit: Divide the spice mixture in half. In another bowl, take half of the spice mixture and combine it with the olive oil, garlic cloves, and bay leaves. Mix well to obtain a fragrant paste.

3. Marinating the rabbit: Place the rabbit pieces in a baking dish and pour the aromatic mixture over them. Make sure all pieces are well coated with the marinade. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

4. Initial baking: Preheat the oven to 210 degrees Celsius. Place the rabbit dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. This will help develop the flavors and seal in the juiciness of the meat.

5. Adding the vegetables: After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and add the potatoes, carrots, and quartered apples. These vegetables will not only complete the meal but also add a contrast of textures and flavors. Sprinkle the remaining half of the spice mixture over the vegetables and drizzle with a little olive oil.

6. Final baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and place it back in the oven, allowing it to bake for another 30 minutes. This step is essential to ensure even cooking of the vegetables and meat.

7. Finishing the dish: After 30 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and let it bake for another 20 minutes. This will allow the rabbit to become tender and develop a slightly crispy crust on the outside.

8. Serving: Once the rabbit is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help redistribute the juices and make the meat even juicier.

Serving suggestions:

This oven-baked rabbit pairs perfectly with a glass of dry red wine or an aromatic white wine. A fresh green salad with lemon and olive oil dressing will add a touch of freshness to your meal. You can also serve the dish alongside a portion of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete lunch or dinner.

Useful tips:

- If you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, you can crush the garlic cloves instead of leaving them whole.
- You can substitute apples with prunes or dried apricots for a different sweet-sour note.
- If you don’t have dried herbs, you can use fresh herbs, but keep in mind that the flavors will be more intense, so adjust the quantity accordingly.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen rabbit meat?
Yes, make sure to completely thaw it before marinating and baking.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with bell peppers, onions, or zucchini, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I tell if the rabbit is cooked?
The meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone. An internal temperature of 75 degrees Celsius is ideal.

4. Is this dish suitable for diets?
Rabbit is a lean meat, rich in protein, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to put on your apron and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience! Bon appétit!